Teacup Pug
The Joys and Challenges of the Teacup Pug
In this new trend for designer dogs, the Teacup Pug is one of the better-suited dogs to these tiny dimensions. This tiny dog has a remarkably cute look to it, resembling in some respects a wrinkly faced boxer. If you think this is the dog for you, then there are some things that you need to know about this little puppy of a dog.
Pug Temperament
Pugs love to interact with their human companions. They are playful and very intelligent dogs. They are also very aware of the inflection of the human voice, which helps when it comes to training. Unlike other small toy breeds that resist training, teacup pugs tend to more amenable to correction.
Teacups can, however, be very bullheaded at times and once they set their minds on a particular behavior can be difficult to correct. For this reason, you want to correct behaviors as soon as you notice them happening. Delay may lead to strong resistance to correction.
Teacup pugs, especially female pugs, tend to have an independent attitude and so tend to work better than other more snippy dogs if you live in an apartment where noise could be factor in choosing your dog. They tend not to suffer from separation anxiety quite as much as other smaller toy breeds. They are the kind of dog that is happy to curl up next to you and take a nap for hours on end.
Some pugs tend to the territorial side and may become overly attached and protective of particular human caretaker.
Teacup Pug Care
Face Cleaning
One of the most distinguishable features of the pug is their wrinkled physiognomy. With those wrinkles, however, comes the responsibility of keeping those curls clean. If you are going to get a pug, you will need to take the time to wipe out any sort of build up that gets caught in the folds of the pug’s face. If you don’t, your pug will become vulnerable to infections.
Respiratory Problems
The anatomy of the pug’s clipped snoot makes for a series of problems relating to breathing and eating.
Pugs will normally make wheezing and gasping noises that you may find disturbing if you are not familiar with the breed. The pug’s short nose has helped to create this malformation in the breed so that such difficulties are prevalent in pugs.
Normally these problems are not serious, however, breathing problems in pugs do make them susceptible to a series of breathing related problems. If you notice a far more intense rasping breathing or other noises—as if your pug has suddenly graduated to a whole new level of breathing problems—this may indicate a collapsed trachea.
Because of the peculiarities of the pug respiratory system, pugs are susceptible to the trachea dislodging. This is a serious condition, which your vet can correct with surgery.
Sometimes pugs are also born with a soft palate or with nose passage that is constricted. Both of these conditions can and should be treated so that your pug will have a full and happy life.
Heat Related Difficulties
The pug’s abbreviated nasal cavities makes it difficult for them pant sufficiently in order to cool down in hot weather. If you live in a part of the country or world where it gets very hot in the summer then you would be wise to keep your pug indoors on hot summer days and if you have the luxury of an air conditioner, to keep the temperature mild.
Weight Issues
Because pugs have a propensity to stay near their human companions rather than run about and play with other pets, they often will suffer from weight problems and the attendant difficulties if their human companions don’t carefully monitor their weight and reduce their diets appropriately.
Like humans, pugs are especially prone to overeating when they get bored or when they get depressed because they feel neglected. If you give the appropriate amount of attention to your pug and exercise him appropriately, these problems can be managed.
If, despite these extra issues you still want a teacup pug, you should visit your local Pug Rescue and put your name on the waiting list. This way you will not only get your pug but also be able to help a dog that would otherwise have been in danger of being put to sleep.