RVC study highlights breed loyalty for pugs, French bulldogs, and English bulldogs, despite substantial health risks 

According to a new study, 93% of owners of flat-faced dogs – including the Pug, French Bulldog and English Bulldog – would opt for the same breed again, despite experiencing common and severe health problems in their pets. 

The research, led by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh and Nottingham Trent University, also revealed that two-thirds (66%) of owners would recommend their flat-faced breed to others. The development of ‘breed-loyalty’ towards flat-faced breeds is very concerning because it promotes the proliferation of these breeds despite their substantial health risks.

Flat-faced, or ‘brachycephalic’ dog breeds suffer many severe and often lifelong health issues, including eye ulcers, breathing problems and heatstroke, relating to their typical body shape - particularly their characteristic flattened face. 

Despite the heightened risk of such welfare problems, which are often painful and distressing, the popularity of flat-faced breeds has dramatically increased over the last decade, with the French Bulldog now the UK’s most popular breed registered with the Kennel Club. 

Although previous RVC studies found that owners are initially attracted to brachycephalic breeds due to their distinctive appearance, this latest study has revealed that behaviour traits are a core component of why owners ‘love’ their breed and would recommend them to others; essentially, owners come for the looks, but stay for the personality.

Owners of all three breeds were very confident they would own ‘their’ breed again in the future. First-time dog owners and those that had a very close relationship with their current flat-faced dog were most likely to want to own their breed again. 

Recognising that their current dog had severe breathing problems or were experiencing behaviour that was worse than they had expected reduced an owner’s desire to acquire their breed again in the future. 

In order to gain a deeper understanding of these views, the study, which included over 2,000 owners of Pugs, French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs, asked owners to describe which aspects of their current breed they would or would not recommend in their own words.

Key reasons for owners recommending their breed included: 

✔️ The perceptions that these dogs were loving and affectionate, loyal, comical, ‘clown-like’ and playful. 

✔️ A belief that they were suitable for households with children. 

✔️ A perception that flat-faced breeds are ‘lazy’ and require little exercise, so are suited to sedentary lifestyles with limited space. 

Conversely, aspects of their breed that owners would not recommend included: 

✔️ High maintenance requirements. 

✔️ Impacts on owner lifestyle including excessive hair shedding and loud snoring. 

✔️ Health problems being common and high vet bills. 

✔️ Behavioural traits including stubbornness, neediness, and aggression.

Only a small number of owners cited concerns over ethical and welfare issues associated with breeding flat-faced dogs, such as irresponsible breeding practices and suffering associated with their body shape, as a reason that they would not recommend them.

Dr Rowena Packer, Lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science at the Royal Veterinary College and leader of the study, said:

“With a multitude of stakeholders trying to tackle the current brachycephalic boom in the UK, our results are of real concern to these efforts. 

Understanding how breed loyalty develops towards brachycephalic breeds, and whether it can be changed once established, is key to reducing the popularity of short-muzzled breeds. If first time owners of flat-faced dogs choose these breeds for the rest of their lives, then the current crisis could continue for decades.

“Although strong focus has been placed upon dissuading new puppy buyers from purchasing brachycephalic breeds, as they are now some of the most popular breeds in the UK, attention should also be turned to current owners. Priority should be given to developing evidence-based strategies to help these owners consider lower risk, healthier breeds when acquiring future dogs. Our novel findings start this process by highlighting the key behavioural characteristics that this owner group value.”

Based on the results of the study, recommendations for prospective owners included considering alternative breeds with similar personality and behaviour traits, to not only avoid financial burdens but also prevent supporting breeding for extreme body shape in the name of desirable behaviours that are available in other breeds. 

In addition to this, it’s important for owners to not fall victim to assumptions; no breed is ‘off the shelf’ suited to live in households with children and pet behaviour is a result of nature (genetics) and nurture (their environment). Finally, all dogs need daily mental and physical stimulation and a mistaken perception of dogs not requiring exercise or being ‘lazy’ can impact their welfare and instead, be a sign of poor health. 

Bill Lambert, Head of Health and Welfare at the Kennel Club, said: 

“We always urge people to do their research when getting a dog and so we’re not surprised that once having chosen a particular breed to fit their lifestyle, owners will remain loyal to that breed. This paper though, focusing on the range of reasons behind brachycephalic dog ownership, enables us and all those who care about breed health and welfare to know and understand more about why these dogs are so popular and demand continues to grow.

“Certainly many of the flat-faced breeds have wonderful characters but we are concerned about some owners who may not be so well informed and are simply unaware of potential health issues, placing looks first without finding out more about the breed or researching a breeder who prioritises health. 

There are also increasing numbers of these dogs bred outside any sphere of influence – including some imported from overseas – that are bred a certain way because it is perceived to be ‘cute’, with little regard for health and welfare.

“This research will certainly inform and accelerate our ongoing collaborative, evidence-based approach alongside breeders, vets and welfare organisations - which aims to reduce mass demand for these dogs - resulting in smaller numbers of better-informed owners, acquiring the healthiest examples.”

Reference

Packer RMA; O’Neill DG; Fletcher F; Farnworth MJ (2020). ‘Come for the looks, stay for the personality? A mixed methods investigation of reacquisition and owner recommendation of Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Pugs.’ PLOS ONE.
The full paper is available from PLOS ONE and can be accessed here: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0237276

About the Royal Veterinary College 

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) is the UK's largest and longest established independent veterinary school and is a Member Institution of the University of London. It was the first in the world to hold full accreditation from AVMA, EAEVE, RCVS and AVBC.
The RVC is the top veterinary school in the UK and Europe and ranked as the world’s second highest veterinary school in the QS World University Rankings by subject, 2020. 

The RVC offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in veterinary medicine, veterinary nursing and biological sciences.
In 2017, the RVC received a Gold award from the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) – the highest rating a university can receive. 

A research led institution with 79% of its research rated as internationally excellent or world class in the Research Excellence Framework 2014. The RVC provides animal owners and the veterinary profession with access to expert veterinary care and advice through its teaching hospitals and first opinion practices in London and Hertfordshire. For more information, please visit http://www.rvc.ac.uk 

MEDIA RELEASE, 27th August 2020

Top 20 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Australia in 2020

As many of us snuggle up under blankets in front of a roaring fireplace, Pet Insurance Australia takes a look at the top dog breeds that relish the cold weather and winter days.

“Many of us across Australia will be busily purchasing winter dog coats to keep our short-coated breeds warm and cozy this chilly season,” Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. “We thought it was time to highlight some of the winter-loving dog breeds from around the country.”

But don’t be fooled. Many of these breeds, regardless of their super warm coats will still enjoy getting too close to the fire or heater during a wintry blast!

“We have heard of many Alaskan Malamutes refusing to budge outside during the cold weather, so I think it’s all about conditioning. However, it’s very clear, that even though these breeds can tolerate the cold very well, compared to others, they also certainly feel the sting of the heat come summer.”

Winter breeds tend to have double coats consisting of a dense undercoat and a harsh outer coat. This can make for some challenging grooming sessions during a seasonal change but is the reason why they are so tolerant of the cold weather.

Siberian Husky lying in the snow - Photo by Ugur Arpaci on Unsplash

“Many of these breeds were also originally bred in very cold climates for a particular reason, be it herding or sledding,” Crighton says. “When choosing a dog breed it’s important to match your needs with their historic development, understanding that many sledding and herding breeds do require a good dose of exercise and coat care.”

Top 10 Cold Weather Dog Breeds

1. Alaskan Malamute – a strong and powerful breed built for strength and stamina. They are very intelligent and high energy breed suited to an experienced dog handler. Be prepared for loads of love, and hair to match!

2. German Shepherd – a very smart and powerful breed used for many working dog activities including police work and security. A very loving and loyal breed who loves to run and play.

3. Bernese Mountain Dog – certainly a head-turner at the local off-leash park. These dogs love the cold and are super strong and quick. Known for their gentle and loving nature, they are certainly a larger than life pup.

Chow Chow - Photo by Alex Blăjan on Unsplash

4. Chow Chow – with their super woolly coats they are perfect contenders for enjoying the cold weather. They love simply adore human contact and cuddles and are very loyal and loving dogs.

5. Newfoundland – These large dogs are the giant teddy-bears of the dog world. These Canadian dogs are still used in water rescues for their incredible swimming capabilities. Their double coats are perfect from protecting against the cold and the wet!

6. Saint Bernard – probably one of the most recognisable winter breeds. These pups are more docile than many, preferring a big slobbery cuddle than a huge off-leash adventure. But they are perfectly built for the cold weather and have a wonderful willingness to work and please.

7. Samoyed – the smiling Sammy is built for the cold weather with their lovely warm coats. A super snuggly breed who is loads of fun. They do require a good dose of exercise coming from a reindeer herding, hauling, and hunting background.

8. Siberian Husky – A very popular breed amongst dog lovers with a long and interesting history in dog sledding. Like some of their cold weather-loving cousins, they do require a good amount of exercise and training to keep healthy and happy.

9. Tibetan Mastiff – This stunning breed looks more like a loveable lion than a domestic dog. Their large double coats are perfect at keeping them snug and warm during the winter season.

10. Keeshond – a super friendly, quick learning, cold weather-loving breed. The Keeshond is the perfect mix of loving a good run, while also enjoying a good cuddle and a day of relaxation.

MEDIA RELEASE, 11th June 2020

The Pharaoh Hound, ancient "Blushing Dog" of Malta, is a graceful, sleek but rugged sprinting hound historically bred to course small game over punishing terrain.

Pharaoh Hounds have a goofy streak, they are inquisitive and they love playing with toys and people. They are endlessly entertaining and they keep their owners on their toes. 

History

The Pharaoh Hound looks as though it has just stepped off the walls of an Egyptian tomb or returned from a hunt with a pharaoh. No better idea can be had of the Pharaoh Hound than that gained by looking at statues of Anubis, the dog (or jackal) god. 

Yet for centuries, the original Egyptian hounds were assumed to be extinct — until these dogs, almost certainly the descendants of Egyptian hounds traded by sea-going Phoenicians, were discovered on the island of Malta. 

The isolation of Malta allowed them to breed true for thousands of years, their physiques honed and tested by the need to earn their keep catching rabbits. The pharaoh hound is known as the Kelb-tal Fenek (which means “Rabbitdog”) in Malta, where it is now the national dog. The dog is traditionally used by some Maltese men for hunting.

Recent DNA analysis would indicate the breed has no link with Ancient Egypt casting doubts on the myth that the modern Pharaoh Dog is descended from the Tesem, one of the ancient Egyptian hunting dogs.

The first Pharaoh Hounds recorded to have left Malta were in the 1930s, but only in the 1950s and 60s was there a significant effort mounted to establish them in Britain and America. Since then, they have remained rare; after all, not everyone is suited to own the dog of the pharaohs.

Appearance 

The Pharaoh Hound is described as Dolichocephalic (long face) - like the Afghan Hound, Borzoi, Bull Terrier etc. - and the large, naturally erect ears are a hallmark of the breed.

Many people confuse the Pharaoh with the Ibizan Hound but the Pharaoh tends to be smaller. He is also one of the most moderate of the sighthounds, lacking the exaggerated raciness seen in others of this family. Unlike most hounds, the Pharaoh Hound dog breed hunts both by scent as well as sight.

Still, the breed retains Greyhound-like features: long, slender legs, relatively narrow body, tucked up waist, slightly arched loin and long tail — but everything is less so than in a Greyhound. Even the legs are only moderately angulated, indicating the build of a dog that combines considerable stamina with speed.

• Height: Males 56-63.5 cm (22-25 ins); Females 53.5-61 cm (21-24 ins) 
• Weight (both): 20-25 kg

The coat colour should be a tan or rich tan with white markings allowed including a white tip on the tail (strongly desired), White on chest (called "The Star") and white on toes. The coat is short, soft and great to stroke! 

For the Pharaoh Hound Breed Standard, please visit Dogs Australia

One the delightful traits of this breed is their ability to smile and the Pharaoh Hound blushes when happy or excited! They do not blush in their cheeks, but they do in their ears and noses.

Temperament 

Like all sighthounds, Pharaoh Hounds are chasers. They cannot be let off lead in an unfenced area without the danger of them running after something and onto the road.

These dogs' purpose in life was to hunt in packs and make decisions independently from their masters. They used to vocalise to communicate with the other dogs in the pack so remember that modern Pharaoh Hounds will yodel or bay which your neighbours may not appreciate! 

The Pharaoh Hound is independent-minded, highly intelligent and occasionally stubborn, yet very trainable when positive methods are used. 

It is a very sensitive breed and responds poorly to compulsory training methods and to being physically punished. Pharaohs were bred to hunt and think for themselves, and they have retained this trait for thousands of years. They tire / bore easily with repetitive commands, therefore it is the trainer's job to ensure that their training remains interesting and positive in nature.

Nobody ever accused a pharaoh of being an obedience wiz! They have very good eyesight and hearing but they don’t have any particularly ability to work as a watchdog or protection dog.

They are a very active breed but, like Greyhounds, as indoor dogs they are couch potatoes and need little "real" exercise. Indoors, the Pharaoh Hound is calm, quiet and content to stretch out on your best sofa and sleep as long as you have given him a daily run or romp. 

Pharaoh Hounds thrive with human companionship. If they are bored, they will get into mischief and create their own amusement. 

The Pharaoh is sensitive and aloof, it tends to reserved and scared around strangers. Few breeds can claim to match this breed's patience and gentleness with children, and they get along well with other dogs when properly socialised. But they need to be closely supervised around cats and other small mammals.

Health & Lifespan

According to the American Breed Club, Pharaohs are virtually free from genetic diseases. The conditions that seem to affect the breed the most include the following:

• Hip Dysplasia – dogs can be hip scored by a vet
• Luxating Patellas
• Eye problems
• Skin Allergies
• Canine Bloat / gastric torsion
• Cushing’s Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism)

Reputable breeders continue to test their dogs for genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, and myriad eye conditions, just to ensure that these disorders do not become a problem. Reputable breeders should be able to show documentation of health screening performed on their breeding dogs. 

Note that Pharaohs, like most sighthounds, are sensitive to barbiturate anaesthetics. Their ears are thin and prone to frostbite when living in cold climates. Their thin coat makes them require dog coats or jackets in cold weather.

Average Lifespan: about 12-14 years.

Grooming & Maintenance

They have sensitive skin, and normal shampoo may cause allergic reactions, therefore it is best to wash them with a gentle dog shampoo. 

Grooming Pharaohs is as easy as a quick rub with a hound glove or a damp cloth. They are clean dogs, shed very little, and have no noticeable odour, except when wet or when they've been outside. But their odour quickly returns to normal.

Recommended for

Because their energy requirements are high, Pharaoh Hounds are recommended for active families. These active, high-energy dogs need daily walks and playing, and many also enjoy jogging. 

When outdoors, Pharaohs should be kept on a lead or exercised in an enclosed area because of their extremely high prey drive. If they give chase, they can be difficult to catch since they are such fast runners. 

However, they can do well in apartments if they are sufficiently exercised. A backyard would be appreciated, but it needs to have a tall fence (6 feet high minimum is recommended). 

See if there is a dog club in your area that offers an activity called lure coursing, which is chasing a mechanical lure in a controlled setting. This is an appropriate outlet for the full-speed galloping behaviours that are "hardwired" into your Pharaoh Hound's genes. 

Being quite rare means they're amongst one of the most expensive dog breeds in Australia. To own one of these adorable dogs you could be looking at paying upwards of $7,000!

For more information about the Pharaoh Hound, please contact Hound Club of Victoria

There's a also a Facebook group for Pharaoh Hounds lovers in Australia.

Ever wondered what the most expensive dog breeds are around town and the price some owners are willing to spend on their furry family member? Pet Insurance Australia did some impressive digging to find out who tops the list of the most expensive dogs to own in 2018.

Like fancy cars, expensive handbags and jewellery, the type of dog breed you own is fast becoming something of a social status. As the ‘designer’ dog breeds market became big news back in early 2000, with many new breeds coming to light promising less allergies and better looks. Today, many canine lovers pride themselves on the ‘pure’, ‘designer’ or ‘rare’ dog breeds that grace their homes.

In China the dog breed prestige was taken to new heights with one particular dog breed being sold for a whopping $2.09 million Australian dollars! The one-year old Tibetan Mastiff normally presents a price tag ranging from $2,000-$8,000 on the shores of Australia, however overseas these breeds can reach incredibly high amounts.

These huge dogs represent a prized wealthy symbol among the rich and famous in China. Because of this, their price tags just keep increasing to ridiculous amounts. In Australia the rise of the very popular French Bulldog has seen puppy prices skyrocket. These breeds can reach anywhere from $2,000 – to $20,000!

The price will also depend on the quality of breeding, and what you intend to use your dog for. Show dogs or those intended for breeding and continuing a prized bloodline are normally much more pricy in comparison to companion and house dogs.

#10 - Yorkshire Terriers

As one of the most popular toy breeds around, the Yorkshire Terrier is certainly a popular canine companion around the world. Their lovely carefree nature and loyalty makes them a wonderful addition to any loving home. They will not only cost you anywhere from $2,000 upwards, depending on your breeder, they will also need professional attention from a qualified groomer.

#9 – Rottweiler

The loyal and loving Rottweiler is a popular amongst many dog lovers. 

Their strong stature and beautiful nature make them a family winner and an outright breed favourite in many countries. 

Depending on where you reside, your chosen breeder and what you intend to use your dog for (breeding/showing etc), the Rotty could set you back an impressive $6,000!

#8 – Saluki

This beautiful sighthound is well-known as one of the ‘supermodels’ of the dog world. This quiet and loving canine champion is sure to turn heads down at the local park. They need a good dose of training and care, as their desire to run and ‘give chase’ is unbearably strong. So too is the breeds price tag! Some Salukis have been known to sell for $6,000 plus, depending on country and level of breeding and bloodline.

#7 – Pharaoh Hound
With one of the best smiles in the business the Pharaoh Hound is one impressive dog breed. They are an incredibly intelligent and affectionate breed, that are known for their happiness and ability to make people smile. Being quite rare they can reach an impressive price tag particularly in some parts of the world. To own one of these adorable dogs you could be looking at paying upwards of $7,000.

#6 - Chow Chow

The Chow Chow is famous for their loyal and protective nature. They are an impressive looking breed that need a consistent and strong leader. The Chow Chow comes in two different coat types including rough and smooth and both varieties will need a decent amount of grooming. Being seasonal shedders, some owners call in the experts during this time to help with the masses of hair, that will also come at a cost. Your Chow Chow could cost upwards of $9,000.

#5 – English/British Bulldog

This sweet breed is a crowd favourite when it comes to attention and charm. Being wonderful family companion and pretty low maintenance on the exercise front makes them a welcome addition to many homes. 

Good breeding is paramount, as being a Brachycephalic breed (a shortened skull, short nose and a flat face), they can face many health problems. 

Expect to pay upwards of $10,000 for one of these stunning and well-bred dogs.

#4 - Samoyed

This beautiful white and bright dog makes an incredible family companion. They are friendly and make a very loyal furry family member. They are also wonderfully active dogs that enjoy spending time in the great outdoors with those special humans who they adore. However, this constant and beautiful relationship comes at a price. For a well-bred Samoyed you could be paying upwards of $10,000!

#3 – Lowchens

This ‘Little Lion Dog’ is a very smart and active companion breed who thrives in a loving and affectionate home. A playful and very soft breed they make wonderful family additions for all ages. However, the rarity of this breed makes them very expensive. Some pups can reach upwards of $10,000!

#2 – French Bulldog

The incredibly popular and loving French Bulldog is certainly a crowd pleaser. This adorable breed is not easy to come by, but they are well worth the wait! The Frenchie was bred for one purpose only, to be a cuddling cute companion - something they are known to excel in. However, they are also a Brachycephalic breed (a shortened skull, short nose and a flat face), so good breeding is vital to reduce possible health problems. These dogs can reach anywhere from $2,000 to $20,000 depending on the breeder.

And…drumroll…the most expensive dog in 2018 is...

#1 – Tibetan Mastiff

Well-known as a symbol of wealth in some countries, the Tibetan Mastiff is a powerful and large dog that requires a decent amount of training and grooming. 

This only adds to the costs of owning one of these impressive dogs. In some places of the world this breed can sell from between $8,000 - $10,000 however, this breed has broken many records over time with the most recent being a huge price-tag of $2.09 million Australian dollars paid by a property developer in China.

MEDIA RELEASE, 20th September 2018

Related Topics

Why People Choose Flat-Faced Breeds Despite Major Health Risks

The Pug is a sturdy, compact dog breed known as the clown of the canine world because they have a great sense of humour and like to show off. Spirited, wilful and affectionate, Pugs behave lovingly toward people of all ages and get along well with other dogs.

History

Pugs originated in China, dating back to the Han dynasty. They were prized by the Emperors of China and lived in luxurious accommodations, sometimes even being guarded by soldiers. In the early 1600s, China began trading with European countries. Reportedly, the first Pugs brought to Europe came with the Dutch traders, who named the breed Mopshond, a name still in use today.

Pugs quickly became favourites of royal households throughout Europe, and in Holland, the Pug became the official dog of the House of Orange in 1572 after a Pug reportedly saved the life of William, Prince of Orange.
 

As the Pug's popularity spread throughout Europe, it was often known by different names in different countries. In France, it was called Carlin; in Spain Dogullo; in Germany Mops; and in Italy, Caganlino. 

Marie Antoinette had a Pug named Mops before she married Louis XVI at the age of 15. Another famous Frenchwoman, Josephine Bonaparte, had a Pug named Fortune. Pugs became very popular during the Victorian era and were featured in many paintings, postcards, and figurines of the period. Queen Victoria had many Pugs, and she also bred them.

Pugs are one of the earliest pure breeds of dog kept in Australia. Though it's uncertain when they arrived, records from the Agricultural Society of NSW show two Pugs being exhibited in 1870.

Appearance

The Pug looks like a miniature Mastiff with a compact, square body, large bone structure and thick, wrinkly skin. The head of the Pug is short, blunt and large compared to the rest of the body. The moles on a Pug's cheeks are called "beauty spots."

Large dark eyes should not protrude from the wrinkled squashed face but simply fill the eye sockets giving the dog an animated expression. The tail is curled as tightly as possible over the hip, with a double curl being considered perfection. 

Even though the coats are short, Pugs are a double-coated breed. Pugs are typically fawn-coloured or black. The fawn colour can have different tints, such as apricot or silver, and all Pugs have a short, flat, black muzzle.

• Height: Males 30 - 36 cm; Females 25 - 30 cm
• Weight: Males 6 - 9 kg; Females 6 - 8 kg 

Visit Dogs Australia here, for the full breed standard.

Temperament

Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training and socialisation.

Personality-wise, Pugs are happy and affectionate, loyal and charming, playful and mischievous. They are very intelligent, however, they can be wilful, which makes training challenging. Crate training is recommended as they are known to be difficult to house train.

Don't expect a Pug to hunt, guard or retrieve! Pugs were bred to be companions and tend to be a sedentary dog, content to sit in your lap as you read a book or watch a movie. Pugs love to be the centre of attention and are heartsick if ignored. Their compact package belies a great deal of energy, so expect to be entertained with some goofy antics if your Pug doesn't get a walk or some playtime.

Pugs will need to be kept in an enclosed area as their road sense is poor.

Health

Pugs are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they're prone to certain health conditions. Not all Pugs will get any or all of these diseases, but it's important to be aware of them if you're considering this breed. Their average lifespan is between 12 and 15 years.

Due to their flat face, pugs should not be over exercised or become overheated. They need plenty of water and shade in hot conditions or they can experience breathing difficulties and suffer from heatstroke. Pugs are definitely house dogs and should not be kept outdoors. 


Being prone to breathing problems means that pugs should not be allowed to become overweight. Excess fat around the heart can bring about premature death. The wrinkles of the dog should be monitored for skin problems and the fold across the nose should be wiped daily with lanolin or Vaseline on cotton wool.

Eye problems: Because their large eyes bulge, Pugs are prone to a variety of eye problems, including proptosis (the eyeball is dislodged from the eye socket and the eyelid clamps behind it) distichiasis (an abnormal growth of eyelashes on the margin of the eye, resulting in the eyelashes rubbing against the eye); progressive retinal atrophy (a degenerative disease of the retinal visual cells that leads to blindness) and entropion; (the eyelid, usually the lower lid, rolls inward, causing the hair on the lid to rub on the eye and irritate it).

Allergies: Some Pugs suffer from a variety of allergies ranging from contact (environmental allergies) to food allergies. If your Pug is licking at his paws or rubbing his face a great deal, suspect allergy and have him checked by your vet. 

Hemi-vertebrae: Short-nosed breeds, such as Pugs, Bulldogs and French Bulldogs, can have misshaped vertebrae. Sometimes, only a few of the vertebrae are affected and the dog is able to live a normal life. Others will stagger and display an uncoordinated, weak gait between 4 and 6 months of age. Some dogs get progressively worse and may even become paralysed. The cause of the condition is unknown. Surgery can help.

Bracycephalic Airway Syndrome: There is an anatomical narrowing at the nostrils, the back of the throat and in the windpipe itself. This explains why pugs often breathe noisily, with sounds ranging from heaving breathing to honking. Light sleepers may want to invest in a pair of ear plugs as pugs wheeze, snort and snore - loudly. 

While the Pug's first love is human attention, his second love is food. These dogs love to eat, eat, eat. This, combined with their small stature, puts them at risk for obesity.

Grooming

The coat is short and smooth however be warned to pugs shed like crazy, especially in summer. Following that, regular brushing and bathing helps keep the coat in good condition and shedding to a minimum. 

A monthly bath is sufficient and the Pug's small size is handy: you can drop him right in the kitchen sink for a bath. The Pug's bulging eyes need special attention. Because they protrude, the eyes are vulnerable to injury and irritation from soaps and chemicals. 



Regular nail trimming is essential, since these house dogs don't usually wear down their nails outdoors like active breeds do. What requires special attention is the Pug's facial wrinkles. These folds are hotbeds for infection if allowed to become damp or dirty. The wrinkles must be dried thoroughly after bathing, and wiped out in-between baths. Some owners simply use a dry cotton ball; others use commercial baby wipes to wipe out the folds.

Recommended for

Though playful and rambunctious, the Pug is a low-maintenance companion, making it ideal for older owners. Because they are a small, quiet breed and are relatively inactive when indoors, they are a good choice for apartment dwellers as well.

Pugs love kids. Though small, the Pug is not delicate like some toy breeds, so he is a good breed choice for families with children. However, children who want an active pet to retrieve balls or play soccer will be disappointed with a Pug. Adults should always supervise interactions between children and pets. 

For more information on the breed, please visit:

Pug Club of VictoriaPug Club of South Australia 
The Pug Dog Club of NSW

Rescue Groups 

Pugs are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Pugs in need of adoption and or fostering. If you'd like to re-home a Pug, please contact:

Pug Rescue and Adoption Victoria
Pugs SOS Inc.
www.pugrescue.com.au