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Pugs - what to look for?

3K views 31 replies 17 participants last post by  Arny  
Maybe consider a pug mix from a rescue?

Often more moderate but still retain some of their features- I personally prefer their look that that of a typical pug.

A good resscue should be upfront about any breed related issues that may be present in their dogs.

Alternatively, Tibetan spaniels have similar features but not as extreme as pugs & pekingese have become:

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There's a lot of dog breeds that get overlooked because they're not "special" in some way and don't stand out that much. But the reason many breeds stand out and appear more unique is because they have been bred for an extreme look. Extreme pushed-in face, extreme short legs, long back, extreme skin wrinkles, extreme ear length or coat or size or whatever. And every time you make something extreme, the dog suffers.

Basic, plain dog-looking dogs might not get a second look walking down the street, but in general they're going to function better. Functional structure that's not extreme isn't going to stand out, but maybe that's a good thing.

And basic, plain looking dogs can have amazing personalities. Mine does :)
She is far from plain!

And some dogs might be quite plain but they make up for it by being characterful.

The dog we fostered for a friend 3 years ago was a 'dorkie' (dachs/yorkie mix), so not a type I'd consider having, but she was a huge personality & great fun, I really enjoyed her staying with us.