The breed has a fine, smooth, glossy coat that comes in a variety of colours, fawn being the most common but they also come in apricot, silver or black. A black pug was Frank the Pug in the film Men in Black. There is also the rarer white pug which gets its coat via breeding or albinism. The silver coat is very light in colour, absent of black guard hairs with a very dark head, and no clear delineation at the mask, and dark forelegs. They have a compact square body with well-developed muscle with the tail normally curling tightly over the hip.
Pugs have two distinct shapes for their ears, 'rose' and 'button'. 'Button' ears are preferred by breeders with 'rose' ears being smaller and folded with the front edge against the side of the head. The legs are very strong, straight, of moderate length, and are set well under. The lower teeth normally protrude further than their upper, meeting in an under-bite.
They have been described as multum in parvo ('much in little'), describing the pug's remarkable personality despite its small size. The Pug is keen, with a happy-go-lucky attitude. Animated, peppy and spirited, they are loyal, loving and affectionate with their families. They make perfect pets for families as they are strong willed but rarely aggressive. The majority of the breed is very fond of children and sturdy enough to properly play with them. They can be quiet and docile but also vivacious and teasing depending on their owner's mood. They can make good watchdogs, they are always alert and sometimes yappy.
Playful, lively and rambunctious, they are sure to keep you laughing. Highly intelligent, they bore easily without variety in their training. They can be a bit willful if they sense they are stronger minded than the humans around them. Pugs are sensitive to the tone of your voice, so harsh punishment is unnecessary. They need an owner who is calm, yet firm, confident and consistent with the rules.
Health and Care
The UK Kennel Club puts the average lifespan of a pug at 10 years.
The Pug is good for apartment life. It is relatively inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard. Cannot withstand hot or cold weather and should be kept indoors at a comfortable temperature.