Life with a pug isn’t your typical dog ownership experience. These wrinkled, snorting little comedians come with their own special brand of quirks that only fellow pug parents truly “get.” From their dramatic breathing sounds to their oddly human-like expressions, pugs march to the beat of their own drum – and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
If you’ve ever tried explaining pug behavior to someone who’s never lived with one, you know that blank stare all too well. These aren’t just dogs; they’re furry little characters with personalities bigger than their compact bodies can contain. So let’s dive into the wonderfully weird world of pug ownership and celebrate all those moments that make us smile, worry, and fall even deeper in love with our squishy-faced companions.
Your Pug Sleeps Like They’re Auditioning for a Chainsaw Commercial
That first night with your pug probably came as quite the shock. While it may be true that a Pug does tend to snore – he does not sleep more than any other breed and he is not lazy at all. Most new pug owners quickly discover that their adorable little companion can produce sounds that rival heavy machinery.
When their soft palate relaxes during sleep, it causes the Pug to produce snores that are occasionally so loud you might wonder if there is another human sleeping away on the couch. Some pugs can reportedly produce very loud snoring sounds, potentially reaching noise levels comparable to heavy machinery. Yet somehow, you’ve learned to find this thunderous symphony oddly comforting. Some owners find it helpful to obtain a white noise machine which can muffle out night time snores.
The Pug Stare Has Supernatural Powers
Every pug owner knows about “the stare.” It’s that intense, unblinking gaze that seems to penetrate your very soul, usually deployed when food is involved or when they want something specific. Most owners will agree that the Pug knows what he wants…And he’ll use a few different techniques to see if his owner will cave in.
Your pug has perfected this art form to such a degree that you can practically hear their thoughts. That sideways head tilt combined with those bulging eyes creates a communication system more effective than any barking. You’ve probably found yourself apologizing to your pug for things you didn’t even do, just because of the way they looked at you.
Breathing Sounds Like a Medical Emergency (But It’s Tuesday)
They snore and snort even when wide awake. New pug owners often panic the first time they hear their dog making what sounds like respiratory distress, only to look over and see their pug calmly chewing a toy. Many, but not all, do exhibit some rather amusing noises. If you are seeking a quiet dog, the Pug may not be the best choice. The most common noises are: burps, flatulence, snorts and snores.
You’ve learned to distinguish between normal pug breathing chaos and actual concern. Being a brachycephalic breed, Pugs are prone to stenotic nares, which essentially means narrowed nostrils. This can make it hard for a Pug to breathe correctly out of his nose. Those snorting, wheezing, and grunting sounds have become the soundtrack to your daily life.
Your Pug Is Actually a Velcro Dog in Disguise
“People call them a Velcro dog, because they’re always at your side,” Nathan says. “You’ve got to be prepared to have a dog that always wants to be wherever you are.” Personal space becomes a foreign concept when you own a pug. They follow you from room to room like a furry shadow, often positioning themselves in the exact spot where you need to step next.
Knowing that Pugs are bred for companionship, it’s no wonder they struggle with being home alone for long periods of time. This isn’t just clinginess – it’s their entire reason for existing. They were literally bred to be companion dogs, so that constant need for your presence isn’t a behavioral problem; it’s their job description.
Food Motivation Reaches Olympic Levels
Pugs are very smart, easily motivated by food and praise and love to make you happy. But calling pugs “food motivated” is like calling the ocean “slightly damp.” Your pug doesn’t just enjoy meals; they live for them with an intensity that borders on religious devotion. Since they are food motivated, Pugs often develop the frowned upon behavior of begging for food. However, with some training and dedication, this habit can be trained away.
You’ve probably mastered the art of eating while being intensely watched by two bulging eyes that seem to say, “I haven’t eaten in forever” (even though their bowl was filled twenty minutes ago). After all, a pug that resists food is showing an IRON will. The pug death stare during dinner time has likely convinced you to share more than you should.
They’re Part Dog, Part Comedian, Part Drama Queen
Pugs are FULL of charm. In fact, their quirkiness and pug behavior only adds to their appeal. They’re funny little goofballs full of wrinkles, snorts, snores and (and sometimes toots). Your pug has an uncanny ability to be accidentally hilarious at the most unexpected moments.
He is a playful, comical dog that enjoys living it up, and delights his owner with silly antics. Whether they’re sliding across hardwood floors, getting their head stuck in a sleeve, or making faces that look remarkably human, pugs seem to have comedy in their DNA. Sometimes, the dog is just being a dog, but his appearance can make normal behaviors seem amusing. Other times, it is a matter of a Pug wanting attention…if he sees that a certain action or behavior gains attention and makes his owners smile or laugh, he may repeat that action.
Hot Weather Turns Your Pug Into a Delicate Flower
Due to their short muzzle, they aren’t suited for very warm and tropical climates and should be observed carefully for heatstroke. Summer walks become military operations requiring careful planning, timing, and constant vigilance. You’ve probably become an expert at reading weather apps and timing outdoor activities around temperature fluctuations.
Due to their sensitivity to hot and humid temperatures, Pugs are best in homes where they will be primarily indoors. If you live in a warm climate, be aware of the temperature and time of day when you take your Pug out for a walk. “You won’t see me being active in warm weather though, I can’t cope!” Your pug transforms from energetic companion to limp noodle the moment temperatures rise above their comfort zone.
Wrinkle Maintenance Is a Daily Ritual
Be diligent about cleaning your Pug’s wrinkles – especially those on their face. You can use a wet towel or commercial dog wipes to regularly clean your Pug’s face wrinkles. Always dry the wrinkles after cleaning, as leaving moisture will enable bacteria to breed and infections to develop. You never imagined you’d become so intimately familiar with facial fold hygiene, but here you are.
Those adorable wrinkles require daily attention to prevent skin infections and odors. You’ve probably developed your own technique and routine, complete with special wipes and drying methods. It becomes second nature, like brushing your own teeth, except you’re maintaining someone else’s face folds.
Your Pug Mirrors Your Every Mood
One of the best personalty traits of the Pug dog breed is his tendency to mimic his owners. Always aiming to please, a Pug will tend to be more laid back or more outgoing, depending on his owner’s nature and habits. This is a learned behavior and it can change over time. If you’re having a lazy Sunday, your pug becomes the ultimate couch potato. If you’re energetic and active, they’ll match your enthusiasm.
They thrive on attention and tend to mimic their owner’s mood and vibes. If you sleep a lot, your Pug is not going to pace around the room; he’ll be right by your side. And if you’re active, he’ll want to be right there as well. This emotional synchronization creates an incredibly strong bond, but it also means your pug becomes a furry barometer of your own stress levels and energy.
Every Pug Owner Becomes a Health Expert
The Pug’s flat face creates a lot of predispositions for eye, ear, and skins issues, as well as breathing and dental problems. This means that grooming upkeep and regular veterinary visits are essential to their overall health. You’ve probably memorized more medical terminology than you ever wanted to know, from brachycephalic syndrome to luxating patella.
Pugs have higher rates of certain health conditions compared to many other dog breeds. You become hyperaware of breathing patterns, eye discharge, and skin conditions. Because Pugs are prone to eye issues, make sure their eyes look healthy and normal. Any signs of injury or abnormalities should be immediately reported to your vet. Regular vet visits become routine, and you develop a keen eye for what’s normal pug weirdness versus actual health concerns.
Conclusion
Living with a pug means embracing a lifestyle filled with snores, stares, and unconditional love wrapped in a compact, wrinkled package. These little characters teach us that sometimes the quirkiest companions make the most memorable ones. Pugs live to love and to be loved in return, and they do both with an intensity that transforms ordinary pet ownership into something truly special.
What do you think about these pug quirks? Tell us in the comments about your own pug’s unique personality traits!
Linnea is a born and bred Swede but spends as much time as possible in Cape Town, South Africa. This is mainly due to Cape Town’s extraordinary scenery, wildlife, and atmosphere (in other words, because Cape Town is heaven on earth.) That being said, Sweden’s majestic forests forever hold a special place in her heart. Linnea spends as much time as she can close to the ocean collecting sea shells or in the park admiring puppies.
