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Pug

The Pug is a small companion dog breed of ancient Chinese origin, tracing back over 2,000 years as a lapdog favored by royalty and nobility.^[1]^[2] Characterized by its compact, square-proportioned body, deeply wrinkled face, short blunt muzzle, prominent eyes, and tightly curled tail, the breed adheres to standards specifying fawn or black coat colors, with the fawn featuring a clear black mask and trace.^[3] Even-tempered and sociable, Pugs exhibit playfulness and charm suited to family companionship, though their extreme brachycephaly—exaggerated through selective breeding—predisposes them to severe health compromises including brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), ocular disorders, obesity, and neurological conditions like epilepsy.^[3]^[4] Studies indicate Pugs face 1.8 times the odds of one or more common disorders compared to non-Pugs, with BOAS risk 54 times higher, rendering the breed atypical in health terms relative to canine norms.^[5]^[6] Introduced to Europe via Dutch traders in the 16th century and later popularized in British courts, Pugs achieved kennel club recognition in the 19th century amid trends favoring their "cute" morphology, which has intensified welfare concerns over breathing difficulties, heat intolerance, and reduced lifespan.^[7]^[8]

Characteristics

Physical Traits

The Pug exhibits a compact, square-proportioned build, characterized by a cobby body with substantial bone and a level topline.^[3] Adult specimens typically weigh 14 to 18 pounds, with height at the shoulder ranging from 10 to 13 inches, though official standards emphasize proportional weight over strict height measurements.^[9] ^[10] The head is large and round, featuring a brachycephalic skull with deep wrinkles extending from the stop to the temples and a short, blunt muzzle that is square in profile.^[3] Eyes are dark, prominent, and globular, set moderately apart, while ears are small, thin, and either rose-shaped or button-folded.^[10] The tail is set high on a short, thick tail base, curling tightly over the hip, with a double curl preferred in breed standards.^[3] The coat is short, fine, smooth, soft, and glossy, shedding seasonally without undercoat.^[10] Recognized colors include fawn (a clear, decided shade with a black trace forming a thumb mark on the forelegs and black on the ears, mask, back, and tail) and solid black, with no preference between them; silver-fawn and apricot shades appear in some lineages but adhere closely to fawn standards.^[9] ^[11] Compared to historical prototypes from 18th- and 19th-century depictions, modern Pugs display more exaggerated brachycephaly with shorter muzzles and increased facial wrinkling, alongside relatively shorter legs and a stockier frame versus the leaner, longer-legged forms seen in early European imports from China.^[12] ^[13]

Temperament and Behavior

Pugs exhibit an affectionate, sociable, and playful temperament, traits consistently reported in breed standards and owner surveys that emphasize their role as devoted companions rather than working dogs. The American Kennel Club describes the breed as possessing an even-tempered disposition, marked by charm, outgoing sociability, and a loving nature toward family members, including children, with minimal aggression or territorial guarding instincts.^[11] This aligns with veterinary assessments noting their eagerness to please and enjoyment of human interaction, often preferring close proximity to owners over independent activity.^[14] Empirical studies on owner perceptions reinforce high levels of emotional attachment, with Pug owners reporting stronger bonds and greater empathy toward their dogs compared to owners of non-brachycephalic breeds; for instance, a 2019 survey found Pug owners scored highest in emotional closeness among tested groups, attributing this to the breed's responsive and empathetic behaviors.^[15] Such loyalty manifests in behaviors like following owners room-to-room and displaying distress during separations, though this can lead to clinginess rather than independence.^[16] Behaviorally, Pugs show moderate intelligence and adaptability to training when consistency is applied, but surveys indicate a tendency toward stubbornness, particularly in response to repetitive commands, distinguishing them from more compliant breeds.^[17] They lack strong herding or protective drives, instead prioritizing play and relaxation in domestic settings, with owner reports highlighting their patience and low reactivity to strangers or other pets when socialized early.^[18] Recent analyses suggest that perceived calmness in the breed may partly stem from owner expectations and training environments rather than innate genetics alone, underscoring the influence of human-directed breeding for companionship over utility.^[19]

Origins and History

Etymology

The English term "pug" for the dog breed first appeared in the mid-18th century, specifically by 1749, denoting a small Dutch-type dog, deriving from the word's earlier 1660s usage for a diminutive monkey whose facial features the breed resembled.^[20] This, in turn, stemmed from "pug" as a 1560s term of endearment meaning "sprite," "imp," or playful small creature, applied affectionately to monkeys and later to compact companion dogs with expressive, wrinkled faces.^[20]^[11] A popular but less linguistically attested theory links "pug" directly to the Latin pugnus ("fist" or "clenched hand"), citing the breed's tightly folded facial skin as evoking a fist's appearance; this interpretation appears in breed literature but aligns more closely with folk etymology than primary lexical records, which prioritize the endearment-to-monkey progression.^[21]^[22] The term's application to the dog remains distinct from "pug" denoting a boxer or fighter (from Latin pugil, "boxer," via pugnus), despite sharing Indo-European roots related to striking or clenching, as the canine sense evolved independently through affectionate naming rather than combative connotation.^[20] Upon European introduction via Dutch traders, the breed acquired regional names reflecting local phonetics and traits, such as mopshond in the Netherlands—from mopsen ("to grumble" or "mope")—alluding to the dog's snorting respiration and grumpy demeanor.^[11]^[23] In Germany, it became Mops, a shortening of the Dutch term, while in France it was termed carlin (evoking a caricatured human face).^[24] English speakers occasionally prefixed "Chinese" or "Dutch" to "pug" in early records to denote origins or type, distinguishing it from emerging local variants, though "pug" alone standardized by the 19th century.^[25]

Ancient Chinese Origins

The Pug breed originated in ancient China, with roots tracing back to approximately 400 BC, where it was developed as a companion dog from short-nosed mastiff-like ancestors, possibly including relatives of the Tibetan Mastiff. These early dogs, known historically as Lo-sze during the era of Confucius around 700 BC, served primarily as lapdogs for the elite, valued for their compact size and loyal temperament rather than utility in hunting or guarding. Archaeological and textual evidence for the breed remains limited, relying on stylized artistic representations in Chinese scrolls and bronzes that depict similar short-faced canines, though precise identification with modern Pugs is debated due to selective breeding changes over millennia.^[25]^[24]^[26] Pugs held particular significance in Tibetan Buddhist monasteries from around the same period, where monks kept them as affectionate pets, associating their wrinkled faces and curled tails with protective Fu lions (foo dogs) symbolizing good fortune and guardianship in Chinese folklore. Chinese emperors, starting from the Han Dynasty (206 BC–220 AD), prized these dogs as status symbols of wealth and imperial favor, housing them in opulent conditions and assigning dedicated guards to prevent theft or escape. This imperial patronage reinforced their cultural role, with folklore portraying Pugs as bringers of prosperity and loyalty, though empirical records emphasize their companionship over any mystical attributes.^[25]^[27]^[28] Early artifacts and depictions, such as those from the Zhou and Han eras, illustrate dogs with pug-like features including broader heads and shorter muzzles than wild canids but longer and less prognathic than contemporary show Pugs, suggesting a gradual intensification of brachycephalic traits through imperial breeding preferences for novelty and portability. Strict prohibitions on exportation, enforced to preserve the breed for royal and monastic exclusivity, maintained genetic isolation until the 19th century, limiting crossbreeding influences and preserving core lineage traits amid China's insular policies.^[27]^[29]^[30]

Spread to Europe

Pugs reached Europe through Dutch traders associated with the Dutch East India Company, who imported them from China in the mid-16th century, initially to the Netherlands where they gained favor among the nobility.^[31]^[32] The breed's prominence in Dutch society was notably elevated by an incident in 1572 during the Siege of Mons, when a Pug named Pompey alerted Prince William the Silent (William I of Orange) to assassins approaching his tent at Hermigny, France, by barking and jumping on him, thereby thwarting the attack; in gratitude, William decreed the Pug the official dog of the House of Orange-Nassau.^[33]^[34] This anecdote, rooted in Dutch historical lore, cemented the Pug's symbolic association with the princely house and contributed to its status as a companion of the elite across European courts.^[35] The Pug's adaptation in early Europe involved selective breeding that retained core traits like the compact build and curled tail but produced specimens with longer legs, less pronounced facial wrinkles, and muzzles that were shorter than ancient Chinese forebears yet not as extremely brachycephalic as in later standards.^[12] These early European Pugs, often depicted in portraits as alert and sturdy lapdogs, appealed to aristocracy for their affectionate temperament and portability, distinguishing them from larger working breeds.^[36] Further dissemination occurred when William III (grandson of William the Silent) and Mary II, upon their ascension to the English throne following the Glorious Revolution, imported Pugs from the Netherlands to England in 1689, introducing the breed to British royal circles and accelerating its popularity beyond the Low Countries.^[37]^[38] In this nascent phase, Pugs served primarily as status symbols and companions, with breeding focused on temperament over conformational extremes, reflecting the era's emphasis on functional companionship rather than exaggerated aesthetics.^[23]

Development in the 18th–20th Centuries

![Pug photo, ca 1900. Note its small head and long legs.](./assets/Top_Dog_(6199778183) In 18th-century Europe, pugs served primarily as companion dogs among aristocracy, depicted in portraits with relatively longer legs and less exaggerated facial features compared to later standards.^[39] Selective breeding during this period focused on temperament and portability rather than extreme conformation.^[40] The Victorian era marked a surge in pug popularity, driven by Queen Victoria's ownership of up to 36 pugs, including black, fawn, and apricot varieties, which she actively bred at Windsor Castle. Her preference for compact bodies, deeply wrinkled faces, and short muzzles influenced breeders to intensify these traits, shifting the breed toward greater brachycephaly and reducing leg length from earlier imports.^[41] This era saw the establishment of formal breed standards in England around 1885, aligning with the founding of The Kennel Club in 1873, which promoted conformation shows over utility.^[42] Pugs reached America post-Civil War, gaining recognition from the American Kennel Club in 1885, which formalized similar aesthetic ideals and spurred registry growth.^[11] Early 20th-century registries reflected morphological diversity, with some specimens retaining longer legs and narrower skulls, though show preferences accelerated exaggeration.^[43] Queen Victoria's influence led to overbreeding, inflating numbers but compromising genetic health.^[41] The World Wars caused sharp population declines across breeds, including pugs, due to economic constraints and resource shortages, reducing registrations dramatically in Europe and America.^[31] Post-war recovery involved dedicated breeders rebuilding lines, transitioning pugs fully from versatile companions to specialized show dogs by mid-century, with standards emphasizing the compact, wrinkled form over prior athleticism.^[31]^[43]

Modern Breeding and Reforms

In 2008, following revelations of profound inbreeding in pedigree dogs, including Pugs, breeders initiated efforts to enhance genetic diversity through outcrossing and selective programs aimed at mitigating inbreeding depression.^[44] A study by Imperial College London, referenced in contemporaneous investigations, underscored the breed's low effective population size and high coefficients of inbreeding, nearing critical thresholds for genetic viability.^[45] These findings spurred kennel clubs and breed organizations to promote wider pedigrees and health-focused breeding, though implementation varied by region. The emergence of "Retro Pugs" around the 2010s represented a targeted reform, with breeders crossing traditional Pugs with longer-snouted terriers like Jack Russells to restore functional traits such as extended muzzles and legs, approximating 19th- and early 20th-century standards. Proponents argue this approach alleviates brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) and other conformation-exacerbated conditions by prioritizing airflow and mobility over exaggerated flat-faced aesthetics.^[46] In the Netherlands, pug clubs formalized outcrossing allowances by 2018 to bolster genetic health, marking a shift from closed registries.^[47] The Pug Dog Club of America (PDCA) has advanced reforms through mandatory health screenings, recommending Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) evaluations for Pug Dog Encephalitis, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and ocular issues via the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) program.^[48] In 2023, PDCA endorsed the OFA's Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) protocol, a standardized veterinary assessment to quantify respiratory function and guide breeding decisions.^[49] These initiatives include Health Ambassador Awards to incentivize testing and welfare-oriented practices among members.^[50] A 2025 Cornell University study illuminated the human-orchestrated convergent evolution in flat-faced breeds, revealing that Pug skulls exhibit greater similarity to those of Persian cats than to ancestral canids, driven by selective pressures for juvenile "cuteness" features like shortened snouts.^[51] This morphological convergence, replicated across taxa, highlights the perils of intensified brachycephaly in modern breeding. Despite such evidence, Pug registrations in the UK plummeted 42% year-over-year by late 2023, totaling 1,654, reflecting growing awareness of welfare concerns amid sustained but waning popularity.^[52]

Health and Welfare

Brachycephaly and Respiratory Issues

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is prevalent in Pugs due to their extreme brachycephaly, a condition defined by a cephalic index exceeding 80, where the skull's width surpasses its length, compressing upper airway structures. Veterinary assessments indicate BOAS affects 88–91% of Pugs in both referral hospital and non-hospital populations, such as breeders and first-opinion clinics, with clinical signs including chronic snoring, stridor, dyspnea, exercise intolerance, and heightened susceptibility to heat stroke from impaired thermoregulation.^[53] These manifestations stem from primary anatomical defects like stenotic nares (narrowed nostrils, present in over 80% of affected Pugs), elongated soft palate, and hypoplastic trachea, which collectively increase airway resistance by 2–3 times compared to mesocephalic breeds, as measured by peak inspiratory flow metrics in functional grading systems.^[54]^[55] Selective breeding for a flattened facial profile has causally intensified these issues, with conformational studies linking greater brachycephaly—quantified by shorter muzzle length relative to skull width—to escalated BOAS severity; dogs with the most extreme craniofacial ratios exhibit odds ratios up to 5.5 for severe obstruction.^[56] Computed tomography (CT) analyses of brachycephalic breeds, including Pugs, reveal nasal cavity volumes reduced by 20–40% versus ancestral or less exaggerated types, alongside turbinate overcrowding that further obstructs airflow, confirming breeding-driven morphological compression rather than incidental variation.^[57] Empirical data from whole-body plethysmography underscore this, showing Pugs' respiratory minute volume ventilation lags 30–50% behind norms during exertion, directly correlating with nares stenosis grades where openings measure under 1 cm in diameter.^[58] Surgical corrections, performed in 70–80% of symptomatic Pugs before age 3, typically involve staphylectomy (soft palate resection) to shorten the palate to epiglottic tip level, combined with alarplasty for nostril widening. These multilevel procedures yield objective improvements in respiratory function scores for 85–90% of cases, with owner-reported satisfaction exceeding 95% at 12–24 months post-operation, though 10–20% experience partial recurrence due to progressive laryngeal collapse or edema.^[59]^[60] Perioperative mortality remains low at 2–3%, primarily from aspiration or hypoventilation, but long-term monitoring via functional tests is essential, as untreated BOAS doubles mortality risk from respiratory crises.^[61]

Genetic and Inbreeding Problems

The pug breed suffers from low genetic diversity attributable to historical population bottlenecks, particularly during the 19th century when the modern breed was standardized from a limited number of founders in Europe, resulting in an effective population size insufficient to maintain broad allelic variation.^[62] Genetic analyses indicate high average inbreeding coefficients, often exceeding 25% in certain pedigrees, reflecting extensive homozygosity and a narrowed gene pool that heightens vulnerability to deleterious recessive traits.^[63] A 2006 assessment revealed the breed's genetic profile was severely constrained, bordering on collapse risk due to these bottlenecks and closed breeding practices that prioritized conformation over diversity.^[64] This reduced diversity manifests in elevated incidences of hereditary orthopedic conditions, including hip dysplasia, with prevalence rates reported up to 71% in screened populations, stemming from polygenic inheritance amplified by inbreeding depression.^[65] Patellar luxation, affecting approximately 5.4% of pugs, similarly arises from conformational extremes like shallow hip sockets and malaligned hind limbs, where homozygous alleles for joint instability predominate in the inbred genome.^[65] Post-2010, veterinary protocols have incorporated radiographic screening via organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for hip and patella evaluations, alongside emerging DNA tests for associated markers, though comprehensive genetic panels remain limited for these multifactorial traits.^[66] Relative to outbred or mixed-breed canids, pugs exhibit markedly higher loads of homozygous deleterious alleles, correlating with increased expression of recessive disorders and reduced heterozygosity that buffers against disease in more diverse populations.^[67] Empirical genomic surveys confirm that such inbreeding elevates the fixation of harmful variants, contributing to a cascade of health compromises absent or rarer in non-pedigree dogs with broader genetic bases.^[68]

Other Common Conditions

Pugs are predisposed to eye disorders stemming from their exophthalmic (prominent globe) morphology, which results in shallow orbits and increased susceptibility to trauma. Corneal ulcers affect approximately 5.42% of pugs, significantly higher than in non-brachycephalic breeds, often due to inadequate eyelid coverage and exposure of the cornea.^[69] Proptosis, or traumatic displacement of the globe from the socket, occurs frequently in pugs during everyday activities like yawning or minor collisions, with veterinary reports indicating it as a breed-specific emergency linked to the same orbital shallowness.^[70] Overall ophthalmological disorders, including these, have a prevalence of 14.5% in pugs attending primary care, exceeding general canine rates by factors of 5–10 times in comparable studies.^[71] Skin fold dermatitis, caused by the breed's characteristic facial and body wrinkles trapping moisture and debris, manifests as recurrent bacterial or yeast infections in intertriginous areas. This condition affects 2.1% of pugs annually, with pugs facing a 16.3-fold increased risk compared to the general dog population (0.37% baseline).^[72] Pain is documented in nearly 20% of cases, often requiring surgical correction of folds for resolution, and prevalence rises with age due to cumulative irritation. Neurologically, necrotizing meningoencephalitis (NME), commonly termed Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE), is a breed-restricted inflammatory disorder with genetic underpinnings, leading to seizures, ataxia, and rapid progression to death. Approximately 1.2% of pugs succumb to PDE, accounting for 69–81% of all intracranial diseases in the breed, far exceeding rates in other canines where NME is rare or absent.^[73] Susceptibility markers, such as homozygous variants, elevate risk up to 13-fold, with onset typically before age three.^[74] Retrospective analyses confirm neurological disorders overall comprise a disproportionate share of pug veterinary visits relative to mixed breeds.^[75]

Lifespan, Obesity, and Reproduction

Pugs exhibit a median lifespan of 10 years under primary veterinary care, with males having shorter survival times than females and intact dogs dying earlier than neutered ones.^[76] This falls below the average for mixed-breed dogs, which ranges from 11 to 13 years based on large-scale demographic analyses.^[77] Factors contributing to reduced longevity include chronic respiratory compromise and metabolic disorders, though individual outcomes vary with management of weight and activity levels. Obesity represents a prevalent issue, diagnosed in 17.4% of Pugs compared to 6.9% of non-Pug dogs in UK primary care records, with Pugs facing over three times the risk.^[78] ^[79] Some surveys report higher rates, up to 64-70% in specific populations, reflecting underdiagnosis in routine checks.^[80] ^[81] The breed's brachycephalic structure limits exercise tolerance, reducing daily energy expenditure to basal levels of approximately 400-600 kcal for a typical 6-8 kg adult, yet overfeeding—common due to their affectionate begging—exceeds these needs, promoting fat accumulation and secondary conditions like joint strain.^[78] In reproduction, Pugs average litters of 4-6 puppies, ranging from 2 to 9 depending on the dam's age and health.^[82] ^[83] Dystocia occurs frequently due to disproportionate head size relative to pelvic dimensions, with cesarean sections required in over 80% of cases in brachycephalic breeds including Pugs, far exceeding the 5-16% general canine rate.^[84] ^[85] This maternal conformation-driven challenge elevates perinatal risks, though timely surgical intervention improves puppy viability.^[86]

Breeding Practices and Controversies

Breed Standards and Recognition

The Pug breed was formally recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1885, marking its entry into organized pedigree registries in the United States.^[87] The United Kennel Club (UKC) followed with recognition in 1918.^[88] In the United Kingdom, the Kennel Club established early breed oversight through importation and exhibition records dating to the 1860s, with black Pugs first shown in 1886, though formal standardization aligned with international frameworks under Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) patronage, which lists Great Britain as the country of development.^[89] These timelines reflect the breed's transition from royal companionship to structured showing, with standards codified to preserve its "multum in parvo" (much in little) compact physique. Major breed standards uniformly emphasize a square, cobby build, with the head relatively large and round, featuring deep wrinkles and a short, blunt muzzle that is square but not upturned. The AKC standard specifies symmetry in general appearance, deeming lean or leggy proportions undesirable, and requires the distance from the base of the throat to the tip of the nose to approximate one-third of the dog's total height, prioritizing an even-tempered expression of charm and dignity.^[3] Similarly, the FCI standard describes the head as proportionate to the body, with the muzzle's length equating to about 40% of the total head length from occiput to nose tip, underscoring a lively yet composed demeanor without apple-headed exaggeration.^[89] The UK Kennel Club standard mirrors these traits, focusing on a fine, smooth coat and tail carried tightly over the hip, with faults penalized for any deviation toward elongation or coarseness.^[10] Post-1900, standards evolved to accentuate conformational extremes, such as progressively shorter muzzles and more pronounced facial folds, diverging from earlier, less compact imports that exhibited longer snouts and legs better suited to functionality.^[31] This shift favored show-ring aesthetics—emphasizing bold expression and wrinkled visage—over original utilitarian traits, as breeders selected for intensified brachycephaly to meet judging criteria.^[43] Variances persist between standards; for example, the AKC's height-relative muzzle metric permits relatively shorter proportions compared to the FCI's head-proportional guideline, influencing regional breeding preferences toward varying degrees of facial truncation.^[90] While core ideals remain consistent across organizations, recent AKC-affiliated parent club guidelines incorporate voluntary brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) evaluations to inform breeding, though the official standard itself retains emphasis on traditional morphology without mandatory health disqualifiers.^[9]

Ethical Debates on Selective Breeding

Critics of pug selective breeding, including organizations like PETA, contend that prioritizing aesthetic traits such as extreme brachycephaly and neoteny inflicts unnecessary suffering on the animals, rendering the practice akin to cruelty.^[91] They reference veterinary data indicating pugs are approximately 1.9 times more likely than non-pugs to experience one or more recorded disorders in a given year, attributing this to conformational extremes that compromise respiratory, ocular, and skeletal function.^[6] Similarly, the RSPCA highlights how deliberate breeding for flattened faces and compact bodies has amplified hereditary vulnerabilities, arguing that such outcomes prioritize human visual appeal over canine welfare.^[92] Proponents of continued pug breeding, often breeders and kennel club affiliates, counter that ethical practices can substantially alleviate these risks through rigorous health testing, genetic screening, and selective pairing for improved muzzle length and airway patency.^[93] They maintain that not all pugs exhibit severe impairments and that responsible husbandry—such as avoiding overbreeding and monitoring for conditions via tools like hip evaluations and DNA panels—allows the breed to persist without inherent abuse.^[94] From a causal standpoint, selective breeding for neotenous features like large eyes and shortened snouts stems from human evolutionary preferences for juvenile morphology, which has domesticated dogs into companion roles but imposed fitness costs in wild-survival terms; defenders assert this trade-off is justified by the animals' adaptation to dependent, indoor lifestyles where such traits enhance bonding.^[95] Empirical assessments of companionship underscore potential upsides, with studies showing dog ownership correlates with elevated human life satisfaction, emotional support, and reduced negative affect, benefits that pugs' affectionate, low-exertion temperament may amplify for sedentary owners.^[96]^[97] Yet debates persist over breeders' autonomy to propagate reduced-vigor lines versus obligations to prioritize evolutionary fitness proxies like longevity and mobility; some ethicists view pugs as exemplars of niche specialization in human-canine symbiosis, thriving via veterinary interventions unavailable to feral counterparts, while others deem perpetuation of predispositions morally untenable absent broader reforms.^[98]^[99]

Regulatory and Reform Efforts

In Norway, a 2022 Oslo District Court ruling prohibited the breeding of English Bulldogs due to welfare concerns over extreme brachycephaly, though an appeals court overturned this for Bulldogs while upholding a ban on Cavalier King Charles Spaniels; pugs were not directly banned but fell under scrutiny for similar respiratory impairments in flat-faced breeds.^[100]^[101] In the Netherlands, legislation proposed in 2023 aims to ban ownership of dogs with harmful traits like extreme brachycephaly, potentially affecting pugs, with implementation targeted for 2024 onward.^[102] In the United States, New Hampshire's House Bill 1102, introduced in 2024, sought to criminalize breeding or selling animals with traits causing suffering, such as brachycephalic shortness of muzzle in pugs and similar breeds, but the bill was deemed inexpedient to legislate by the Environment and Agriculture Committee and did not advance.^[103]^[104] Locally, Ojai, California, enacted an ordinance in 2024 banning breeding of pets with extreme physical characteristics that impair welfare, marking the first such U.S. municipal restriction applicable to brachycephalic dogs like pugs.^[105] The United Kennel Club's pug standard penalizes excessive nose wrinkles that obstruct breathing or vision, promoting moderate muzzles to mitigate health risks, while enthusiast groups advocate "healthy pug standards" emphasizing longer snouts and reduced brachycephaly for improved welfare.^[88]^[106] Retro pugs, selectively bred since the early 2010s for longer muzzles and legs akin to 19th-century types, have gained traction as a reform alternative, with veterinary reports indicating lifespans up to 16 years versus 13-15 for standards and reduced need for surgeries like soft palate resection.^[107]^[108] European Union proposals, including a 2023 draft regulation on dog welfare, call for prohibiting breeding of extreme traits like brachycephaly that compromise health, contrasting with U.S. approaches reliant on market incentives and breeder self-regulation rather than federal mandates.^[109]^[110] These variances highlight ongoing tensions, with EU efforts prioritizing traceability and bans on welfare-harming features, while U.S. reforms face opposition from kennel clubs emphasizing genetic diversity over restrictive laws.^[111]

Cultural Significance

Historical Depictions

Pugs appear in ancient Chinese art as stylized figures in scrolls and pottery, dating back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE), where they were portrayed as compact, wrinkled lapdogs kept by emperors for companionship and as guardians against evil spirits.^[27] These depictions emphasized their role in imperial courts, symbolizing prosperity and loyalty, with facial wrinkles resembling the Chinese character for "prince" (王).^[30] Such representations linked pugs to elite status, reserved for nobility and signifying wealth in a society where small dogs were luxury items bred for aesthetic and protective qualities rather than utility.^[112] In European art, pugs gained prominence from the 17th century onward, following their introduction via Dutch traders, often featured in portraits of the aristocracy to denote refinement and fidelity.^[113] During the Dutch Golden Age (c. 1588–1672), pugs appeared in domestic genre scenes amid symbols of affluence, embodying loyalty as steadfast companions akin to the breed's Masonic emblem in the 18th-century Order of the Pug, where members adopted pug collars to signify trustworthiness.^[31] Paintings like William Hogarth's The Painter and His Pug (1745) showcase the dog as a personal emblem of the artist's pugnacious spirit, positioned prominently to convey devotion.^[114] Francisco Goya's The Marquesa de Pontejos (c. 1786) exemplifies 18th-century Spanish portraiture, with the pug at the subject's feet symbolizing alert guardianship and conjugal fidelity, its erect posture and ribbon collar highlighting the breed's status as a fashionable accessory for high society.^[115] Earlier European depictions, such as 17th-century Dutch works, portray pugs with relatively longer legs and less pronounced brachycephaly compared to later standards, reflecting breeding variations before intensified selection for extreme features.^[116] These artworks underscore pugs' transition from exotic imports to emblems of loyalty and social prestige, often juxtaposed with owners in opulent settings to affirm class distinctions.^[117]

Representations in Popular Culture

In the 1997 science fiction comedy film Men in Black, Frank the Pug, an extraterrestrial informant disguised as a pug and voiced by Tim Blaney, provided comic relief and aided the agents in their mission.^[118] The character returned in Men in Black II (2002), enhancing the pug's image as a quirky, street-smart companion in mainstream cinema.^[119] Similarly, in the animated series Doug (1991–1999), Porkchop served as the protagonist Doug Funnie's anthropomorphic pet pug, frequently engaging in adventures and mimicking human expressions through barks and gestures.^[120] These portrayals emphasized pugs as endearing sidekicks, contributing to their appeal among younger audiences. Celebrity endorsements further amplified pug popularity; actors like Jessica Alba, who owned pugs named Sid and Nancy, and Paris Hilton, with her pug Mugsy, showcased the breed in media appearances, driving consumer demand for the dogs as fashionable pets in the 2000s and 2010s.^[121]^[122] In the United Kingdom, Kennel Club registrations for pugs rose exponentially from the early 2000s onward, aligning with this surge in visibility from film, television, and high-profile ownership.^[123] Following 2010, pugs proliferated in internet culture via memes depicting their wrinkled faces and exaggerated expressions, often captioned with humorous or ironic phrases, which fueled viral sharing on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.^[124] Influencers such as Doug the Pug, a real-life dog with over 3.8 million Instagram followers by 2019, extended this trend through sponsored content and collaborations with celebrities, correlating with broader spikes in online searches and adoption inquiries for the breed.^[125]^[126] Counterbalancing these positive depictions, the 2008 BBC documentary Pedigree Dogs Exposed highlighted welfare issues in brachycephalic breeds like pugs, including respiratory distress from exaggerated facial features prioritized in media ideals over functionality, sparking public discourse on whether such portrayals encourage irresponsible breeding.^[127] This critique, drawn from veterinary evidence of inherited health burdens, urged viewers to weigh aesthetic appeal against empirical data on canine suffering.^[127]

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[12]
Pug history: from ancient beginnings to their modern social media ...
However, they would have looked slightly different from modern Pugs because they had longer legs and a more streamlined build.
[13]
The changing face of the pug – and the project to remake it
May 19, 2022 · More than a century of intensive breeding has left pugs with grossly distorted features: flattened muzzles enveloped in folds of wrinkles that are prone to ...
[14]
Pug Dog Breed: Health, Care, and Lifestyle | PetMD
Oct 16, 2025 · Pugs are generally very friendly and easily excited. The typical Pug temperament is eager to please, and the breed loves spending a lot of time ...
[15]
Great expectations, inconvenient truths, and the paradoxes of the ...
Jul 19, 2019 · Dog owner-relationships were extremely strong across all three breeds. Emotional closeness to their dog was highest for owners of Pugs, female ...
[16]
The brachycephalic paradox: The relationship between attitudes ...
The results of studies indicate that brachycephalic dog owners have a higher level of attachment to their dogs (Beverland et al., 2008, Packer et al., 2017, ...
[17]
Pug Personality & Characteristics | Bark Busters
The Pug is a highly intelligent breed that adapts to training quite quickly providing their human is consistent and patient. Fun Facts. It is believed that Pugs ...
[18]
Pug: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care - The Spruce Pets
Jun 13, 2025 · Pugs are small, affectionate dogs originating from China, known for their charming personalities and adaptability to various living situations.
[19]
Scientists Uncover What Drives Behavior in Pugs and French Bulldogs
Aug 6, 2025 · In the study, ELTE researchers compared four personality traits and four behavioral problems in more than 5,000 purebred dogs. They examined ...
[20]
Pug - Etymology, Origin & Meaning
Originating in the 1560s as a term of endearment, pug means "sprite" or "imp"; later, from 1749, it also denotes a miniature dog and from 1660s, a monkey.
[21]
Pug Dog Breed Guide: Fun Facts, History & Health - Trupanion
Mar 5, 2024 · Most likely related to their wrinkly flat face, one theory suggests the name Pug comes from the Latin word “pugnus,” which means “fist.” If you ...
[22]
Breed Guide: Pug - Dog City NYC
Jul 24, 2023 · The name Pug comes from the Latin word 'Pugnus', meaning 'clenched fist'. photo of 3 pugs. Physical Characteristics. Pugs are characterized by ...
[23]
History of the Pug - The Old Dominion Pug Dog Club
Though called “Mopshond” (Dutch, “to grumble”) in Holland and “Carlin” in France, but the name “Pug” probably comes from the dog's facial expression, which ...
[24]
The History of the Pug - Pug Village
There are many theories as to the Pug's origin—one theory states that the breed is a descendant of the short-haired Pekingese; another theory postulates that ...
[25]
Pug History: Where the Breed Originated - American Kennel Club
Nov 26, 2024 · Pugs are an ancient breed of dog, with roots dating back to 400 BC. Most historians agree that the breed originated in China, where they were bred as companion ...
[26]
A bit about Pug history - Technopet
Reportedly, the first Pugs brought to Europe came with the Dutch traders, who named the breed Mopshond, a name still used today. Pugs quickly became ...<|separator|>
[27]
Pugs in Ancient Orient - My Pugs Home
In the Tang Dynasty, (618 to 907 A.D.) Pugs, called Sichuan Pai (pronounced bai) dogs, were frequently sent as presents, first to Korea and then on to Japan, ...Missing: evidence | Show results with:evidence
[28]
Pugs in Eastern Cultures: Myths to Modern Companions - Pugs Beauty
Sep 20, 2024 · Symbolism: In Chinese art works and folklore, pug dogs are believed to bring good luck. Their popularity spread to Japan and Korea, where they ...
[29]
The year of the dog | Wellcome Collection
Feb 15, 2018 · Pugs were highly valued by Chinese Emperors, they were kept in luxury and guarded by imperial guards. When pugs arrived in Europe, they kept ...Missing: folklore artifacts depictions
[30]
Chinese Pug Dog: A Guide to History, Care, and Fun Facts - Pugazon
Jan 31, 2025 · Pugs in Chinese Art and Symbolism In China, pugs were often depicted in paintings and carvings, symbolizing loyalty, protection, and good ...Missing: folklore artifacts
[31]
The History of Pugs: From Ancient Palaces to Pop Culture - Pugazon
Sep 13, 2025 · The earliest pugs in history were introduced to Europe via Dutch trading ships and were descendants of Qing palace dogs. These pugs were ...
[32]
Pug Dog Breed History: What Were Pugs Bred For? Where ... - Waggel
May 19, 2025 · Archaeologists date early Pugs to around 400 B.C., when silk-robed ... Buddhist monasteries also adored “lion dogs” for their calm spirit.Missing: tibetan BCE
[33]
Pug Facts You May Not Know - American Kennel Club
Apr 1, 2024 · Buddhist Monks Kept Them as Pets. The earliest records of the Pug come from China, where Pugs were pets in Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. We know ...
[34]
Pompey the Pug: The Hero Who Saved a Prince's Life - Pugazon
Jan 31, 2025 · Discover the heroic tale of Pompey the Pug, who saved Prince William of Orange from an assassination attempt.The Heroic Night: How... · FAQs About Pompey the Pug
[35]
Pug History-William the Silent and Pompey - Urban Hounds
Apr 28, 2012 · The assassination attempt was foiled and a grateful William honored Pompey's bravery by making the pug the official dog of the House of Orange.
[36]
https://www.gatorkennels.com/blog/breed-spotlight-the-pug/
[37]
Pugs in England - My Pugs Home
In 1688, one hundred years after Prince William the Silent´s adventure, his great-grandson, William III (1650-1702) and Mary II (1662-1694), ascended the throne ...
[38]
Dog Breed Feature Part II – History of the Pug Dog Breed
May 26, 2012 · William and Mary, as they are commonly known, ruled as King and Queen of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 1689 – 1702. From there, the Pug ...Missing: imported | Show results with:imported
[39]
https://pugboxes.com/pages/pug-dog-origin
[40]
https://mypetmatters.co.uk/blogs/post/pugs-life-long-interesting-history-pug-dog
[41]
Queen Victoria's Pugs: History, Royal Legacy & Influence - Pugazon
Oct 5, 2025 · During the Victorian era, Queen Victoria's preferences for pugs with compact bodies, wrinkled faces, and short muzzles became the standard for ...Missing: 18th | Show results with:18th
[42]
Describing the Ideal Pug, AKC-Style - Dummies.com
The design for the perfect Pug was first formulated by Pug lovers in England in 1885 and reaffirmed in 1931 by members of the Pug Dog Club of America.Missing: 1873 | Show results with:1873
[43]
The Evolution of The Pug - How Pugs Have Changed Over Centuries?
Sep 8, 2023 · Historic photos reveal that past Pugs were leaner, more athletic, and had longer legs. While they might not have been as cute as today's Pugs, ...
[44]
Genetic diversity - Pug Dog Passion
One can thus say that the Pug as a breed suffers from tremendous inbreeding depression, which we believe can be an important cause for all the various diseases ...Missing: 2006 | Show results with:2006
[45]
Trends in genetic diversity for all Kennel Club registered pedigree ...
Sep 21, 2015 · The trend over all breeds was for the rate of inbreeding to be highest in the 1980s and 1990s, tending to decline after 2000.
[46]
Retro vs Standard Pugs - Willow Dove Pugs
Mar 18, 2023 · Retro pugs have longer muzzles and legs, while standard pugs are compact and stocky. Retro pugs are often mixes, and are not ethically bred.
[47]
Dutch pug breeders decide to allow outcrossing for healthier dogs
Sep 27, 2018 · Outcrossing in dog breeding provides ample opportunities to regulate diversity within the genetics of your breed. Due to other encouraging ...
[48]
[PDF] Pug Dog Club of America
Jan 5, 2016 · The PDCA recommends CHIC tests for Pug Dog Encephalitis, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye examination. Second tier tests include ...
[49]
569 – OFA Launches New Testing for Brachycephalic Breeds
Feb 20, 2023 · Kathleen Smiler, DVM, Health Committee Representative from the Pug Dog Club of America, join host Laura Reeves to introduce the new BOAS testing ...
[50]
[PDF] Club of America - Pug Dog - Amazon S3
The Pug Dog Club of America offers Health Ambassador Awards to promote the health and welfare of our breed through health testing, recognizing Pugs owned by ...
[51]
Evolution of pugs and Persians converges on cuteness
Apr 28, 2025 · Humans have pushed breeds such as pug dogs and Persian cats to evolve with very similar skulls and “smushed” faces, so they're more similar to each other.
[52]
Pugs and French bulldogs are falling out of favour with the British ...
Dec 15, 2023 · The pug is down by 42 per cent year on year with 1,654 born so far in 2023. The bulldog has seen a 39 per cent decline in popularity to 5,668 ...
[53]
Pug - Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS) - UFAW
Pugs also exhibit other characteristic of an extreme brachycephalic conformation with a pronounced underbite and widely placed, shallow eye orbits.
[54]
Conformational risk factors of brachycephalic obstructive airway ...
Aug 1, 2017 · In our previous study, we found that approximately 50% of our study dogs in the three extreme brachycephalic breeds were BOAS-affected according ...
[55]
About BOAS | Department of Veterinary Medicine
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is a respiratory disease in short-headed dogs, like French bulldogs, caused by breeding for extreme features.Recognition & Diagnosis · Management & Treatment · Pathophysiology<|separator|>
[56]
Impact of Facial Conformation on Canine Health: Brachycephalic ...
Oct 28, 2015 · This study provides evidence that breeding for brachycephaly leads to an increased risk of BOAS in dogs, with risk increasing as the morphology becomes more ...
[57]
Assessment of Nasal Structure Using CT Imaging of Brachycephalic ...
This breed-specific airway obstruction disease is recognized as brachycephalic airway syndrome (BAS) and is characterized by progressive disease [3,4,5,6].
[58]
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome: much more than ... - NIH
Nov 15, 2022 · BOAS is a chronic, lifelong, debilitating, primarily obstructive airway disease which adversely affects the quality of life of many popular dog breeds.
[59]
Outcomes and prognostic factors of surgical treatments for ...
... Around 90 per cent of BAS dogs experience significant improvement of respiratory function with surgery [30]. However, despite appropriate surgical treatment ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[60]
Complications, prognostic factors, and long-term outcomes for dogs ...
Jan 15, 2022 · No dog required revision surgery during the long-term follow-up period. Most dog owners (331 [97.1%]) were satisfied with the outcome of the ...
[61]
Surgical management of brachycephalic obstructive airway ...
Jul 1, 2024 · In this study, 9% of patients required a temporary tracheostomy, and 2/72 dogs died in the perioperative period. One dog's cause of death was ...
[62]
[PDF] Breed Health and Conservation Plan - Brachycephalic Working Group
An effective population size of less than 100 (inbreeding rate of 0.50% per generation) leads to a dramatic increase in the rate of loss of genetic diversity in ...<|separator|>
[63]
Health and Genetic Research in Pugs - Pickwick Pugs
Studies of dog breeds estimate that they lose on average 35% of their genetic diversity through breed formation (and he says it's actually much more than just a ...
[64]
Trends in genetic diversity for all Kennel Club registered pedigree ...
Sep 21, 2015 · The trend over all breeds was for the rate of inbreeding to be highest in the 1980s and 1990s, tending to decline after 2000.
[65]
Hips, elbows and patella - Pug Dog Passion
71% of Pugs have hip dysplasia, 40.7% have elbow dysplasia, and 5.4% have patellar luxation. Patellar luxation is caused by poorly angled hind legs.Missing: inbreeding | Show results with:inbreeding
[66]
Fact Sheet Dog Breed Pug - QUEN Qualzucht-Database
Oct 30, 2024 · The shape of the skull has a major influence on the development of BOAS. The more pronounced the brachycephaly, the higher the risk of BOAS. The ...
[67]
Most Dog Breeds Highly Inbred | UC Davis
Dec 2, 2021 · This study revealed that if dogs are of smaller size and not inbred, they are much healthier than larger dogs with high inbreeding.” Inbreeding ...
[68]
Prevalence of inherited disorders among mixed-breed and purebred ...
For 13 genetic disorders, no difference was found between purebred and mixed-breed dogs. Purebred dogs were more likely to have 10 genetic disorders.<|separator|>
[69]
The pandemic of ocular surface disease in brachycephalic dogs
Dec 31, 2022 · Perhaps not surprisingly, the breeds with the highest prevalence of corneal ulceration were the Pug (with 5.42% of the breed affected), the ...
[70]
Pug - Brachycephalic Ocular Syndrome - UFAW
As far as we are aware, there are no published statistics on the prevalence of the various disease conditions. In Tolar et al's (2006) retrospective study of ...Missing: proptosis | Show results with:proptosis
[71]
The Prevalence of Corneal Disorders in Pugs Attending Primary ...
Feb 13, 2025 · The prevalence of ophthalmological disorders in pugs attending primary veterinary clinics in Australia in 2017 was 14.5% (n = 191, 95% CI 12.6– ...
[72]
New study from the RVC finds that flat-faced dogs are at the highest ...
Jul 6, 2022 · The breeds with the highest percentage of dogs affected with skin fold dermatitis were English Bulldog (6.1%), French Bulldog (2.7%), Pug (2.1%) ...Missing: prevalence | Show results with:prevalence
[73]
Susceptibility to Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE)
Sample Collection. We recommend waiting until puppies are at least three weeks old before testing.Missing: protocols | Show results with:protocols
[74]
DNA assessment identifies NME risk in pugs - DVM360
Jul 1, 2011 · - A new DNA test created by the University of California, Davis, Veterinary Genetics Laboratory helps measure the risk of pug dogs developing ...Missing: protocols 2010
[75]
Neurological Disorders in Pug Dogs: a Retrospective Study of 285 ...
Aug 9, 2025 · Pugs are commonly affected by neurological disorders and this retrospective observational study aims to describe what pathologies were more commonly diagnosed.
[76]
Demography and Causes of Mortality of Pugs Under Primary ...
Feb 21, 2025 · Pugs have a breed predisposition to neurological disorders, particularly seizures and spinal cord disorder conditions, which are likely to ...
[77]
New RVC research helps owners better understand the remaining ...
Apr 28, 2022 · Other key findings from the study include: The average life expectancy at age 0 for male dogs is 11.1 years, this is 4 months shorter than ...
[78]
Health of Pug dogs in the UK: disorder predispositions and protections
May 18, 2022 · Recent research found that owners of Pugs exhibited stronger higher emotional closeness with their dog than owners of other brachycephalic ...
[79]
Pugs 'must keep off the pounds' - Purely Pets
Feb 1, 2023 · Almost one in five (17%) are formally diagnosed with obesity each year, and Pugs are more than three times more likely to be obese, compared to ...Missing: prevalence | Show results with:prevalence
[80]
10 Shocking Pet Obesity Statistics & Facts: Updated In 2025 - Hepper
Oct 8, 2025 · 64% of Pugs are obese, making them the most obese breed. Pets with overweight owners are twice as likely to be overweight themselves. Minnesota ...Missing: prevalence | Show results with:prevalence
[81]
Prevalence and risk factors for canine obesity surveyed in veterinary ...
Nov 1, 2013 · By dog breed, prevalence of obesity was high in pugs (70.7%), Cocker Spaniel (69.4%), Pekingese (51.9%), Pomeranian (54.6%) and Golden ...
[82]
Pug Dog Information Center | Pug Pregnancy Information
The average sized litter for Pugs is 4 to 6 puppies, though this can vary from 1 to 9 and still be considered normal. An x-ray (ultrasounds are not typically ...
[83]
Pug Litters 101: How Many Puppies Can a Pug Have?
Oct 26, 2024 · On average, pugs can have a litter size ranging from 2 to 6 puppies, with 4 being the most frequently observed number. However, factors such as ...
[84]
What you need to know about dystocia and the veterinary ... - VETgirl
May 17, 2021 · Brachycephlic dogs such as French and English bulldogs are vastly over-represented with rates cesarean section reported of greater than 80%.
[85]
Incidence and concomitant factors of cesarean sections in the bitch
Of all litters, 194 were born via C-sections (21.6%), of which 35 were declared as elective and 159 as emergency due to dystocia. Significantly more C-sections ...
[86]
Canine Dystocia: Medical and Surgical Management - VetFolio
Cesarean section is required in 59% to 65% of bitches presenting for dystocia.11,12 The surgical technique to perform a cesarean section has been well described ...
[87]
Meet the Pug - Pug Dog Club of Greater New York
Weight from 14 to 18 pounds (dog or bitch) desirable. Proportion square. ... The head is large, massive, round–not apple-headed, with no indentation of the skull.Missing: height | Show results with:height<|separator|>
[88]
Pug - Breed Standards - United Kennel Club (UKC)
Head properties should remain free of exaggeration so as to not compromise breathing and/or obstruct normal vision. Breeders and judges are advised to always go ...
[89]
[PDF] FCI-Standard N° 253
FCI-Standard ... The Pug arrived in England when William III came to the throne. Until. 1877 the breed was seen here only in fawn but in that year a black pair.
[90]
I looked at how different breeds standards describe muzzle-length ...
Dec 22, 2024 · The FCI standard 'not too long, and not truncated; length approximately 40 per cent of the total length of the head', AKC standard 'the length ...Comparison of muzzles in breeds with some variation of 'short'Pugs with non-AKC standard snouts - FacebookMore results from www.facebook.com
[91]
5 Reasons Never to Buy a Pug or Pug Mix | PETA
Researchers have found that pugs and pug mixes are almost twice as likely as other dog breeds to suffer from a disorder or an illness.No Bones About It--Pugs Are... · A Pug's Head Is Too Small... · Pugs Are A...Missing: RSPCA | Show results with:RSPCA
[92]
The Pugly Truth: Why you should choose healthy over cute every time
Jan 19, 2017 · The exaggerated features that Pugs and other dogs are known for today have been created by deliberate selective breeding for particular physical types or ...
[93]
Ethical Breeding of Pugs - Pugs Beauty
Aug 21, 2025 · Responsible breeders consciously choose for dogs with more extended muzzles, broader nostrils, less deeply set eyes, and extended palates. It ...
[94]
Are there any ethical ways to breed pugs? - Quora
Jul 13, 2022 · Sure. A) breed to the standard. B) breed only dogs with good to excellent structure. C) breed only dogs with good hips, open nares, and other characteristics.
[95]
Ethical Concerns about Fashionable Dog Breeding - PMC - NIH
The current breeding model can have a negative impact on the emotional and cognitive well-being of dogs, resulting in issues such as aggression, anxiety, and ...
[96]
New study proves pets increase human life satisfaction and wellbeing
Apr 8, 2025 · Having a cat or a dog as a companion can increase human life satisfaction and wellbeing as much as family and friends do, according to new Kent-led research.Missing: pugs | Show results with:pugs
[97]
Dogs and the Good Life: A Cross-Sectional Study of the Association ...
Jul 17, 2022 · A stronger dog–owner relationship was associated with greater feelings of emotional support and companionship but poorer mental health in terms of anxiety or ...Missing: pugs | Show results with:pugs
[98]
Pampered pets or poor bastards? The welfare of dogs kept as ...
We argue that compared to the typical village dog, the typical modern suburban or urban companion dog experiences good welfare in a number of respects.<|separator|>
[99]
The Pugly Truth - The Prindle Institute for Ethics
Feb 24, 2022 · Morality requires us to focus less on aesthetics, and more on the health – and, ultimately, happiness – of our most loyal companions.Missing: debates | Show results with:debates
[100]
Norwegian court cracks down on flat-faced dog breeds - News - VIN
Feb 1, 2022 · A Norwegian court has made a landmark ruling that effectively bans the reproduction of two common breeds of flat-faced dogs, heartening animal ...
[101]
Norwegian court overturns English bulldog breeding ban - News - VIN
Dec 12, 2022 · A Norwegian appeals court has upheld a ban on the breeding of cavalier King Charles spaniels, owing to serious health conditions commonly seen in the breed.
[102]
Netherlands moves to ban pets suffering 'harmful' traits - News - VIN
Feb 21, 2023 · The Netherlands is preparing legislation that would ban the ownership of pets with harmful physical characteristics that may include extremely flat faces or ...
[103]
Bulldogs are prone to health problems. New Hampshire could limit ...
Mar 27, 2024 · Lawmakers will vote this week on a bill that would prohibit breeding dogs that have a physical trait, like being short-nosed, that "causes suffering."
[104]
N.H. lawmakers consider limit on breeding flat-faced dogs - Concord ...
Mar 21, 2024 · The bill, HB 1102, is likely to be rejected by the full House next week since the Environment and Agriculture Committee labeled it “inexpedient ...Missing: restrict | Show results with:restrict
[105]
California city bans breeding of pets with 'extreme' traits - News - VIN
Nov 5, 2024 · A small city in Southern California has become the first place in the United States to ban the breeding of pets with physical characteristics ...
[106]
A healthy Pug standard - Pug Dog Passion
This breed standard has been developed to encourage Pug breeders to work towards a Pug that resembles the “normal dog” more and is less brachycephalic.Missing: evolution morphology
[107]
Why Retro Pugs Are Healthier Than Pugs and Can Live Longer: Vet
Apr 24, 2023 · Retro pugs usually live several more years than traditional pugs and have fewer severe health issues, and they're just as cute and playful.Missing: data | Show results with:data
[108]
Retro Pug: Info, Pictures, Temperament & Traits - Dogster
Jan 7, 2025 · Standard Pugs have a life expectancy between 12 and 15 years, and Retro Pugs live between 13 and 16 years. The actual age that a dog lives to ...Missing: ethical 2023-2025
[109]
Extreme breeding in Europe | Eurogroup for Animals
Nov 29, 2023 · This report aims at mapping the existing legislation on extreme breeding and extreme features in the EU and other European countries.
[110]
EU: Parliament Calls for Stricter Rules on Dog and Cat Welfare | LEOH
The draft law also explicitly bans the breeding of extreme traits that compromise animal welfare, such as brachycephaly or excessively long spines. Animals ...
[111]
Unite Against Radical New Hampshire Bill That Would Criminalize ...
Jan 4, 2024 · By banning intentional breeding when a “birth deformity causes suffering”, HB 1102 targets all breeds regardless of phenotype. Breeding dogs is ...
[112]
The History of Pugs in Ancient China - HubPages
Jun 11, 2018 · Emperor Qin Shi Huang is believed to have destroyed all records, scrolls, and art depicting the pug during his reign between 221 and 210 BCE ( ...Missing: folklore artifacts
[113]
The Art of Pugs - Elizabeth Raney, PhD
Throughout the 17th-century pugs started popping up all over the place, especially in European portraiture.Missing: 18th | Show results with:18th
[114]
Puppies, Doggies and Pugs in Art (For Dog Lovers Only!)
Apr 11, 2025 · William Hogarth, The Painter and his Pug, 1745, Tate Britain, London, UK. William Hogarth was truly attached to his pug. This iconic self- ...
[115]
The Marquesa de Pontejos by Francisco Goya - National Gallery of Art
Francisco de Goya shows The Marquesa de Pontejos dressed in the height of fashion, with a wasp-waisted corset and the adoption of the “shepherdess” style ...
[116]
17th century Pugs - Pug Dog Passion
Renée Willes writes about the painting below in the book Allt om mops that “Pugs with this heavy look existed in both Denmark and Sweden during this time.
[117]
10 Eighteenth-Century Portraits with Pugs - Inviting History
Sep 10, 2017 · A portrait of a young woman holding a pug by François Boucher, circa 1745. A portrait of a lady and a pug dog by Joseph Highmore, 1738.
[118]
Men in Black (1997) - Tim Blaney as Frank the Pug - IMDb
Frank the Pug: You humans! When will you learn size doesn't matter? Just because something's important, doesn't mean it's not very small.
[119]
Frank the Pug - Men in Black Wiki - Fandom
Frank the Pug was an extra-terrestrial living on Earth in New York City in the disguise of a pug. His actual species is Remoolian.Men In Black · Men in Black II · Men in Black III · Men In Black: Alien CrisisMissing: 1997 | Show results with:1997
[120]
Porkchop | Disney Wiki - Fandom
Porkchop is Doug Funnie's pet dog and best friend, received as a gift. He behaves like a human, is sarcastic, and often listens to his walkman.
[121]
Famous Celebrities with Pugs: The Ultimate Celebrity Pug Guide
Jan 31, 2025 · Explore the ultimate guide for famous celebrities with pugs. Learn about their love for pugs and which stars adore these adorable dogs.
[122]
Is our obsession with pugs cruel? Owners tells their heartbreaking ...
Feb 14, 2018 · Demand for pugs has been driven by celebrity owners, including Paris Hilton and Kelly Brook, and their use in advertising to sell everything ...
[123]
Get a GRIHP! on Pugs - Breed-Specific Health Reports - DogWellNet
Pugs are prone to breathing, eye, spinal, and skin issues, and heat stroke, often starting at a young age, due to their flat-faced morphology.
[124]
The Best Pug Memes on the Internet
May 1, 2020 · Pugs provide the necessary inspiration for pug memes to go viral. Take a look at the best pug memes on the Internet! Which is your favorite?
[125]
Top 30 Pet Influencers: Most Popular Animals on Social Media
Dec 11, 2019 · Doug is the most-followed pug on social media, with 3.8 million followers on Instagram, 6 million followers on Facebook, 2.8 million followers ...
[126]
9 Ways Dogs Have Impacted Pop Culture in the Past Decade – Dogish
1. They Became Legitimate Social Media Influencers (And Millionaires). Remember when only humans could be celebrities? Dogs like Doug the Pug have progressed ...
[127]
Pedigree dogs plagued by disease - Home - BBC News
Aug 19, 2008 · A BBC documentary says they are suffering acute problems because looks are emphasised over health when breeding dogs for shows.Missing: critiques | Show results with:critiques