Pug dogs are one of the most popular breeds in America. If you get one of these little charmers, be sure to learn the most effective way to train your puppy.
Pugs are playful, affectionate and intelligent dogs that crave human love and attention. They can also be stubborn and mischievous, so it's important to show them who's boss from their very first day in your home.
The origin of the wrinkle-faced breed is in ancient China, though those animals looked quite different from the pugs of today. Their ancestors are described in books dating back to 600 BC, and were called "short mouthed" dogs.
By the 12th century, identifiable forebears of today's
Pugs were found in China. By the 16th century trade between China and the Netherlands, Great Britain, Spain, and Portugal meant that some pugs returned to Western and Southern Europe on trading ships, were bred. Pugs were known to be within the household of William III and Mary II when they ascended to the throne of Great Britain in 1688.
Pugs in the United States are classified as a Toy Breed, even though they are usually the largest of all the Toys, weighing 14-18 pounds.
A puppy's first teacher is his Dam [mother]. Once you bring your little Pug home, you become its Dam, and Sire (father), and the center of his existence. It's a big responsibility, but "puppy socialization"""what he learns in his first six months of life, is critical in determining the type of dog he'll be. Give your pup the very start in life by providing loving training and the instilling of good habits.
It all starts with the tone of your voice. Most people know that with dogs, the tone of voice is far more important than the words. Most dogs associate a low tone with a command, and a higher voice with praise. (If you happen to have a very high-pitched voice, try your best to lower it for commands and corrections with your puppy.)
Start with the simple one-syllable terms like ""come, stay, sit, good",etc. best. Consistencies, firmness, love and lots of practice is the keys to training your dog.
HIS NAME
Making learning his name the first thing you do. As soon as you get your pug home, start repeating his name, and very soon he'll get the message. Use his name every time you call him, and make sure to add it to all your commands. ("Stay, Pixie." "Sit, Pixie.") Don't use nicknames or variations of his name until you're certain he knows his name. Remember to praise him each time he responds to his name.
COMING WHEN CALLED
"Recall" (coming when he's called) is a fundamental puppy skill, and is next on your agenda. The puppy comes to you""never the other way around. He'll thinks this is a game at first, and may run away or hide. Don't follow him. Repeat the recall command "Come, Pixie" until he understands. Pups have short attention spans, so keep your practice sessions short and frequent.
DON'T FORGET:
If you have young children, be sure to educate them about puppy habits. They'll understand that the new member of your family is a "baby", and shouldn't be teased or bothered while he's asleep (which will be a majority of the time.)
It's hard to deny an adorable little pug puppy anything. When that sweet and wrinkled face stares up at you, you'll be tempted to give in""but be strong and stop bad habits before they develop. Don't let your puppy sit on the furniture or nap on your bed unless you're willing to accept the same behavior in an adult dog.
Almost all puppies love to chew, so provide your little pug with an appropriate chew toy. If he confuses your shoes or the chair leg with a chew toy, be sure to correct him until he gets the message.
