Pug’s Body Structure and Selection Criteria

Overall Appearance:
The Pug is charming, elegant, and officially named in the late 18th century, with the word “Pug” derived from ancient language meaning ghost, lion nose, or little monkey. Pugs are affectionate, adorable small dogs that do not require much exercise or frequent grooming but thrive in companionship. Their characteristic wrinkled appearance gives them the look of a boxing athlete, and they communicate through snorting and horse-like snuffling. Pugs are known for their excellent cleanliness and overall appeal, making them widely loved.

Coat:
The coat should be attractive, smooth, soft, short, and glossy, with colors including silver, apricot fawn, or black. Clear color contrast and well-defined markings on the face and body are preferred. The facial color should be black.

Color:
Preferred coat colors are light fawn, apricot fawn, silver, or black. The tail should ideally have a double curl, curving towards the upper part of the hip.

Head:
The head is large, heavy, with an apple-shaped forehead that is not concave. The eyes are very large, round, dark, and shiny, reflecting tranquility and eagerness. The ears are thin, small, and velvet-like, with two types: rose ears or button ears, the latter being more ideal. The muzzle is short, blunt, wide but not upturned, with a slight undershot bite.

Eyes:
The eyes are very large, prominent, round, shiny, and dark (sometimes exhibiting a blue glass bead color).

Ears:
The ears are thin, small, and velvet-like, with two types: rose ears or button ears, the latter being more ideal.

Nose:
The nose should be black, and the nose bridge not pointed.

Tail:
The tail is set high, tightly curled over the back, with a double curl being preferable.

Chest:
The body is short, stout, with a wide chest and well-expanded ribs.

Neck:
The neck has a slight arch, is robust, and of sufficient length to allow the head to be proudly raised.

Forequarters:
The forelegs are very robust, straight, of medium length, and located directly under the body. The wrists are sturdy, not overly bent, and not pointing downward.

Hindquarters:
The hindquarters are robust and powerful, with moderate angles at the hock joints. The thighs and buttocks are full and well-muscled.

Selecting a Pug:

1. Head Structure: Look for a large, round head with prominent wrinkles on the forehead. The forehead hair should be black with clear wrinkles.
2. Facial Features: Check for black coloration on the face and ears. The color should be distinct and contrasting.
3. Eye Characteristics: Eyes should be very large, round, and exhibit a shiny, dark appearance.
4. Nose: The nose should be black and not pointed.
5. Ear Types: Ideally, the Pug should have button ears.
6. Tail: The tail should be tightly curled over the back, with a double curl being favorable.
7. Coat: The coat should be short, soft, and of the preferred colors – silver, apricot fawn, mustard, or black.

Selecting a purebred Pug requires attention to specific features, ensuring adherence to breed standards for a healthy and characteristic Pug.