Famous for their work in “Men In Black” and “Milo and Otis”, chances are good that you’ve already fallen in love with them. The Pug’s unique face might be the breed’s initial attraction, but hands down, it’s their personality which wins the lifelong devotion of dog lovers.

Unique face indeed! The squashed face and curly tail gives a pug a downright piggish appearance. Pugs come in silver, black, or beige. They’re broad in the chest and muscular, despite their size. The American Kennel Club includes the Pug in their Toy Group because they only weigh in between 14 and 18 pounds.

Pugs are known for being so obedient that they’ll accept any action their owner takes, or any command he issues. Caution, however: they don’t mess around if an intruder threatens their human – they go from zero to mean in less than a second! Other members within the family are another story, however: they’re great friends to children and other pets. Actually, believe it or not, Pugs have been known to return escaped pet birds to their owners without disturbing so much as a feather. If you have kids, take the time to teach them how to interact with your potential pug puppy. Not only will this let you know whether your little ones are allergic to the breed, careful instruction of your children could also prevent injury to your obedient pug.

Pugs are perfectly happy living in apartments or town homes. Granted, the Pug doesn’t need loads of exercise — just make sure he gets enough to keep healthy. A daily stroll ‘round the block should be enough, but he’d be just as happy to go much further. Note that you should always use a harness on your Pug, instead of a collar. They have can windpipe trouble due to their inefficient squashed noses.

Pugs can indeed pick up obedience in a class environment, but they aren’t the quickest learners. They might not learn commands as fast other breeds, but once they do, they’ll just burst with pride. It’s good if you can attend the classes with your Pug. If he just doesn’t pick up the commands, just try again in a few months.

Also, simply put: Pugs love food. They’ll happily eat whatever you give them, and will learn tricks if they know you’ll treat them. Try very hard to limit your Pug’s food intake in order to keep his weight down. These dogs can develop knee problems, which are worse if they’re overweight. Pugs can also develop demodectic mange, and frequently receive eye injuries, due to their slightly protruding shape.

If you don’t want to be always grooming your dog, a Pug is ideal. A quick, weekly brush of the old coat will do it. Also, keep an eye on his face wrinkles to make sure they don’t smell (indicating infection) or develop bacteria.

If you want a dog with a very big heart, the Pug is the breed for you. Let’s just hope you won’t mind him snorting and snoring in your ear all night!