The Basic Breed History Of The Pug
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There are a lot of arguments in many Pug information sources as to where the Pug originated and what breeds went into making such a distinctive looking dog. All the sources agree the dog has Asian roots, although not all of the experts are convinced that China was their home country. However, snub-nosed golden dogs were recorded in the days of Confucius, about 700 BCE. A more detailed report is found of Chinese dogs that very much resembled Pugs in 400 BCE.
Pugs were bred to be the companions and protectors of royalty. Although the Pug was to go through many changes physically, the basic temperament seems to have been the same. Pugs have always been noted for their abilities as a watchdog, for their even temperament, and their devotion to their people. Fortunately, these qualities have not been bred out, although some physical features, like a longhaired coat, have.
Small snub-nosed dogs in China were considered Imperial property. Chinese Emperor Ling To (168 - 190 CE) is reported to have any Pug-nappers be put to death. However, his Pugs had Imperial guards around them, so they were most likely safe. Back then it is thought Pugs came in both long and short coats, again suggesting a Pekingese influence. Pugs were also seen in many colors, not just the three colors recognized today (fawn, black and silver).
If Hogarth's representations of his Pug were accurate, then Pugs in his day (1697 - 1764) were probably barely recognizable as Pugs. They had longer legs, a slimmer body and a longer nose. They were bred in a variety of colors like fawn, black and silver. There were a limited number of Pugs brought to Holland, and then they spread out to other countries. It is commonly thought that Pugs were bred to small Bulldogs or an extinct small Mastiff in order to continue the breed.
His Pug, "Trump", appears in several paintings. There was not that many Pugs available for breeding, so they were most likely crossed with small Bulldogs in order to produce Pug-like puppies. Hogarth's Pug was slimmer, longer-legged and longer-nosed than a modern Pug. Trump also lacked the black mask of most modern Pugs.
However, the nose has gotten flatter over the centuries and the jaw undershot. Pugs were one of the first breeds to be recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Pugs quickly conquered the hearts and homes of the New World, where they were one of the first breeds to be approved by the American Kennel Club in 1885. A renewed interest in Pugs occurred after the release of the hit movie "Men In Black", featuring Frank the Pug, who played an alien on Earth.
Since the Pug has stuck by man throughout the centuries, the least we can do is breed healthier Pugs.
Article Source: Articlelogy.com
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