Pug. Juliette Cunliffe

      Pug puppies almost invariably look enchanting, but you must select one from a caring breeder who has given the puppies all the attention they deserve and has looked after them well. A young puppy should look well fed, but not pot-bellied, as this might indicate worms. Take note of the eyes which should look bright and clear, without discharge. Nor, of course, should there be any discharge from the nose and certainly no evidence of loose motions. Always check the bite of your selected puppy to be sure that it is slightly undershot.

       ARE YOU A FIT OWNER?

      If the breeder from whom you are buying a puppy asks you a lot of personal questions, do not be insulted. Such a breeder wants to be sure that you will be a fit provider for his puppy.

      The puppy you choose should have a healthy-looking coat and a lively personality. Under no circumstances “take pity on” the weakling of the litter, nor on one that is unduly shy or aggressive.

      It is essential that you select a breeder with the utmost care. Initially the American Kennel Club will be able to put you in contact with a breed club, or perhaps directly with breeders, but it is always a good idea to visit a large show at which Pugs will be exhibited. This will provide you with a valuable opportunity to meet various breeders and to see the quality of their stock.

      Since you are likely to be choosing a Pug as a pet dog, you simply should select a pup that is friendly and attractive. Pugs generally have small litters, averaging four to five puppies (though larger litters are sometimes known), so selection maybe limited once you have located a desirable litter. While the basic structure of the breed has little variation, the temperament may present trouble in certain strains. Beware of the shy or overly aggressive puppy; be especially conscious of the nervous Pug pup. Don’t let sentiment or emotion trap you into buying the runt of the litter.

      The gender of your puppy is largely a matter of personal taste. Male Pugs show great kindness toward female Pugs and both sexes are extremely placid and “laid back.” The difference in size is noticeable but slight. Coloration is not the most important consideration when selecting a Pug. Remember that it will be more difficult to find a good silver pup, as the apricot-fawns are most numerous. The black Pugs, unique in their own right, possess single coats, which may be preferable for the allergic owner.

      Breeders commonly allow visitors to see the litter by around the fifth or sixth week, and Pug puppies leave for their new homes around the tenth week. Breeders who permit their puppies to leave early are more interested in your money than their puppies’ well-being. Puppies need to learn the rules of the pack from their dams, and most dams continue teaching the pups manners and dos and don’ts until around the eighth week. Breeders spend significant amounts of time with the Pug toddlers so that they are able to interact with the “other species,” i.e., humans. Given the long history that dogs and humans have, bonding between the two species is natural but must be nurtured. A well-bred, wellsocialized Pug pup wants nothing more than to be near you and please you.

       TIME TO GO HOME

      Breeders rarely release puppies until they are eight to ten weeks of age. This is an acceptable age for most breeds of dog, excepting toy breeds, which are not released until around 10 to 12 weeks, given their petite sizes. If a breeder has a puppy that is 12 weeks of age or older, it is likely well socialized and house-trained. Be sure that it is otherwise healthy before deciding to take it home.