Surprising Facts About Pugs That Reveal Their Royal History

You have many choices when it comes to choosing a family dog. Each breed has its own unique set of characteristics that truly set it apart from other breeds. This is especially true when it comes to pugs. These little cuddly furballs have a long and storied history. They’ve been the pets of royalty and famous figures for hundreds of years, and they continue to be one of the most popular breeds to date. If you’d like to learn more about the origin of this breed, what makes them so special, and other interesting facts about pugs, then read on and impress your friends.

Pugs Are Over 2,000 Years Old

One of the most interesting facts about pugs brings us way back in history. It’s that the origin of the pug started 2,000 years ago. The breed was originally bred by Chinese royalty, and it was one of the most prized possessions a person could have. Pugs were considered to be a national treasure. The Chinese treasured them so much that pugs were barely let out of the country. The only reason someone from the outside might have one was if the dog was gifted to them.

It’s believed that pugs were not bred for sport or as hunting dogs. Instead, they were bred to be companions to Chinese nobility. It’s believed they were even bred in such a way that the wrinkles on their heads were supposed to resemble the Chinese character for “prince.”

Pugs Have Seen A Lot Over 2,000 Years

Pugs have remained a beloved breed among famous people throughout history, so they have been present during many significant events over the years. Both Queen Victoria and the wife of the famous general Napoleon Bonaparte were famous for always having a pug on their laps. Pugs were also the mascot of Holland’s House of Orange royalty back in the 1500s. They were so popular that they were featured in many paintings and stunning works of art. Today, many celebrities make a point to show off their pugs, and the pets are often showcased in films, including “Men in Black,” among others.

Pugs Compete in Sports, the Military, and Therapy Professions

While pugs have often been in the laps of many famous figures, they’re far from being simply cute puppies. There are actually many interesting facts about pugs, including their ability to participate in a variety of activities and professions. When it comes to sports, pugs are particularly good at the game of flyball, in which teams of dogs race against each other and jump over hurdles as they chase after a tennis ball. Pugs are very intelligent, so they do well in this sport.

But it’s not just all fun and games. Pugs are also very beneficial in a number of careers. For instance, they’re often essential in the world of therapy. People with mental or physical needs often depend on pets to provide them with companionship and comfort as they go about their days.

There’s a Technical Name for a Group of Pugs

One of the facts about pugs that most people don’t know is that there is a technical term for a group of pugs. While a general group of dogs can be referred to as a “pack,” a collection of three or more pugs is called a “grumble.” Some dog experts believe that the name comes from the fact that when several pugs are together, they tend to make snorting, grunting, and other “grumbling-type” sounds.

A Pug’s Smooshed Face Means Many Potential Health Issues

One of the sad facts about pugs is that, while they’re cute, that cuteness can sometimes come at a cost. For instance, pugs can often have breathing problems due to the nature of their short and stubby noses. According to Nationwide Insurance, other common issues that lead to pet insurance claims include ear infections and dry eyes.

In fact, the eyes are really something you need to watch. One of the predominant features of a pug is its larger eyes that pop out a bit. They pop out more on some pugs than others, and they can cause issues ranging from vision problems to the short hairs on their faces coming in contact with their eyes. If you own a pug, pay close attention to these potential problem areas.

Pugs Come In Five Different Colors

When you start to think about the pugs you’ve seen in your life, you likely realize that you have only noticed them in a certain number of colors. No matter which color they are, it’s almost impossible not to immediately realize that you’re looking at a pug. 

Technically, there are five pug colors:

• Fawn (light cream color)
• Black (mostly all black, sometimes with white markings)
• Silver (often with a gray undertone)
• Apricot (often with an orange undertone)
• Brindle (combination black and cream stripe)

Some of these pug colors are rarer than others. In fact, the American Kennel Club only recognizes two of the colors: black and fawn. Pugs of any other color are not considered legitimate and cannot compete in American dog shows. There are other very rare pug colors, including panda colors and the albino color, but fawn and black are the most common.

Mini Pugs Weigh as Little as Two Pounds

The average pug will come in at between 12-14 pounds. However, that sizing does not take into account the tiny and adorable mini pug, which can weigh as little as two pounds but typically comes in at three pounds when fully grown. In addition to being much smaller, the mini pug also distinguishes itself by having a slightly longer snout. Miniature pugs are typically full of energy and make great companions for people who don’t want a big mess around the house. They’re also very easy to groom. However, due to their small stature and tiny immune system, they are susceptible to colds and sickness.

Pugs Were the Symbol of a Secret Society

One of the most interesting facts about pugs is that the breed was once the center of a famous secret society. It all began in the year 1738 when a group of Catholic Germans came together and formed the “Order of the Pugs.” As was mentioned, pugs have long been beloved dogs among the most famous and powerful people in the world. So, it’s not a big surprise that this was the case.

Things become stranger if you are admitted as a new member. The newcomers would be required to wear dog collars and then to scratch at the door before they were admitted inside. It’s also rumored that members would need to kiss a pug statue. Thankfully, the order was disbanded in 1748.

Pugs Require a Lot of Grooming

Many people wrongly assume that pugs don’t require much grooming because of their small size, but the opposite is true. Just because they don’t appear to have long hair, it doesn’t mean they don’t need constant grooming. Pugs actually have a thick coat filled with coarse hair. 

They require a detailed grooming routine that includes monthly bathing and almost daily cleaning of their wrinkles, coat, face, eye area, and ear flaps. Additionally, you need to care for their paws every two months and trim their nails every six weeks. It’s quite a routine, but for your beloved pug, it’s worth it. 

Pugs are Poor Swimmers

Finally, on our list of facts about pugs, there is the news about their swimming ability. Many dogs and wolves are famous for their ability to swim great distances, but that’s not so true with pugs. Most of that has to do with the fact that they are brachycephalic animals, which means they have a shortened skull and a flattened face. 

Because of this unique facial structure and short snout, it’s difficult for them to swim while holding their heads at the proper angle to keep their noses above water. They can still swim a bit, but they should only do so with your supervision. Pugs are truly unique for many reasons, and that’s what makes them so appealing to pet lovers around the world and throughout history. If you own a pug, then you know that you have a proud and special dog.