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Happy Pug dog standing in a grassy field image

Pug puppies and dogs

If you're looking for a Pug, Adopt a Pet can help you find one near you. Use the search tool below and browse adoptable Pugs!

  • Ashburn, VA
  • Ashburn, VA

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What is a Pug?

Pug traits

Toy
10-12 inches
14-18 pounds
12-15 years
Pug characteristics
Lifespan
5 yrs 20 yrs
Grooming needs
Occasionally Frequently
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervision Eager to play
Good with cats
Likely to chase Hey, new pal!
Training aptitude
Headstrong Eager to please
Full-grown size
Teeny tiny Super size
Pug adoption

Find a Pug Near You

Photo of Andy

Andy

Pug

Male, 3 yrs 11 mos
West Hollywood, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
##1815202##
Photo of Rowan

Rowan

Pug

Male, 3 yrs 1 mo
Los Angeles, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
-
Story
WAIT!!! Please read Rowan's story.He's a fluffy pug mix!! Rowan is a very lucky boy. He survived a hoarding situation. There were upwards of 30 dogs on the property. All were starving. A handful were dead and just left to rot. The dogs that were alive, needed medical help. Mostly nutritional. Here we are now, presenting sweet Rowan. He is a survivor. In spite of what happened to him, what he endured for years,Rowan is just a happy go lucky boy, loves kids. He deserves to live the rest of his life in the comfort of a loving secure home. He is great with other dogs and does not mind cats. Rowan is around 3 years old and weighs 20 pounds. All dogs in our program are up to date on all their shots, spayed or neutered, and micro chipped. Our dogs are in foster homes which enables us to learn more about them in a home environment. We do not place dogs on a first come first serve basis, but rather to the home best suited for them. An application, adoption fee and contract are required. Please direct all questions to adopt@crdogrescue.com. All our dogs can be met with an approved application. Thank you for looking at a rescue dog for your next family member.
Special Needs
Photo of Tessa

Tessa

Pug

Female, 6 mos
Los Angeles, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Needs special attention,
Story
Baby Tessa is as sweet as can be! She is a spunky and loving 3 month old black Pug puppy. Tessa is blind, but plays and eats and poops and bites her toys just like any normal, wonderful puppy does. She’s got an affectionate personality and one of her favorite things to do is snuggle up with her humans and canine foster siblings. Tessa is very food motivated, gets around by following the lead of the other dogs in her foster home as well as her foster mom’s voice. She is great with kids as well. Tessa is magical and loving and we hope to find her a very special home, as she is deserving of only the best!
Photo of Babydoll

Babydoll

Pug

Female, 10 yrs 5 mos
Studio City, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Babydoll is a 10 year old Pug who weighs 16 lbs. Her owner died and the family didn’t want her, they were going to abandon her on the streets. A Good Samaritan found her and asked us to take her into our group. Babydoll is a sweet dog who loves to be held and sleep with you. She is up-to-date on vaccines, spayed and microchipped. If you are interested in Babydoll, please complete the application on our website: www.adoptmerescue.org. LOCAL ARE ADOPTION ONLY
Photo of Ana

Ana

Pug

Female, 8 yrs 4 mos
Studio City, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Ana is an adorable 8 year old pug that weighs about 10-12 lbs. She was rescued from a bad situation in Tijuana. She is very sweet and loves to be with her person but does not have separation anxiety issues. She loves her walks and is curious about everything around her. This little girl is a gem! Ana is up-to-date on vaccines, house trained, spayed and microchipped. If you are interested in Ana, please complete the application on our website: www.adoptmerescue.org. LOCAL AREA ADOPTION ONLY
Photo of Maybell

Maybell

Pug Beagle

Female, 3 yrs 7 mos
Valley Village, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Maybel is such a cuddly, affectionate dog with a sassy side. She would do great in a family with kids and gets along with all dogs. She loves going on walks and exploring the neighborhood or playing fetch in the backyard. Maybel is a very loyal dog that wants to be near your side. Please fill out an application on our website if you're interested in Maybel www.bigloveanimalrescue.org
Or find a Pug by location
Pug information
Frequently asked questions

Pug Basics

Learn about about Pug basics like where Pug come from, how many different types of Pug you can find, and what other breeds mix with Pug.

Pugs have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Lifespan can vary depending on various factors, including genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health care. To help your Pug live a longer and healthier life, provide them with proper nutrition, regular veterinary care, sufficient exercise, and a loving and safe environment. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help detect and address any health issues early, which can contribute to a longer and happier life for your Pug.

A Pug is a small breed of dog known for their short, wrinkled face, curled tail, and coat that is usually fawn or black. Pugs are low-maintenance dogs who are not highly active and have relatively low exercise requirements. Short walks and playtime are usually sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.

Pugs were bred as companions for Chinese emperors and nobility. They were highly prized for their affectionate and loyal nature, making them ideal companions. Pugs would also act as alert dogs and alert their humans to the presence of intruders with their distinctive barks.

Pugs typically stop growing by the time they are nine to 12 months old. However, their growth rate can vary, and some Pugs may continue to fill out and develop muscle mass until they are around 18 months old. As with any dog breed, it’s important to provide appropriate nutrition and regular veterinary care during their growth phase to ensure they develop into healthy adults.

No, Pugs are not considered hypoallergenic dogs. Hypoallergenic breeds are those that are less likely to trigger allergies in individuals who are sensitive to allergens such as dog dander and saliva. Pugs, like many other dog breeds, produce allergenic proteins that can cause allergies in susceptible individuals.


If you have allergies and are considering getting a dog, it’s essential to spend time with the individual dog beforehand to assess any allergic reactions.

Breeds that are commonly mixed with Pugs include Beagles, Chihuahuas, and Frenchies. Characteristics of a Pug mix can vary widely depending on the specific breeds involved, the individual dog's genetics, and its upbringing. A few common Pug mixes include:


  • Puggle (Pug + Beagle mix)

  • Chug (Pug + Chihuahua mix)

  • Pugapoo (Pug + Poodle mix)

  • Frug (Pug + French Bulldog mix)

  • Pugsky (Pug + Husky mix)

  • Pom-A-Pug (Pomeranian + Pug mix)


How many types of Pugs are there? There is just one breed of Pug, but the breed is often grouped into four types based on color: fawn, black, apricot, and silver.

The origin of the name “Pug” is not entirely clear, but some believe it originated from the Latin word “pugnus,” which means “fist.” This might be a reference to the Pug’s wrinkled face, which can resemble a clenched fist. The breed’s name might have been influenced by its playful and pugnacious nature.

Pugs originated in China over 2,000 years ago (there are records of them in 400 B.C.) and were introduced to the Dutch nearly 500 years ago. Pugs were originally bred in China as companions for royalty and later among European nobility.

Pug Appearance

Learn about about the Pug general appearance like their size, colors, and grooming needs.

Pugs are considered by some to be ugly due to their unique features, such as bulging eyes and pronounced wrinkles, but many other people consider these same features adorable. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Pugs come in four main colors: fawn (the most common), black, silver, and apricot. While fawn and black are the most common coat colors, there are also less common colors, such as brindle and even white. Regardless of coat color, Pugs will almost always have a black mask. 


It’s important to note that coat color does not affect a Pug’s personality or health, and all Pugs share the same friendly and affectionate temperament.

The rarest color for Pugs is white. White Pugs have a predominantly white coat, which is less common than the typical fawn and black colors. 


Unfortunately, rare colored Pugs, including White Pugs, are often associated with irresponsible breeding practices. These rare colors are usually the result of breeding colors rather than focusing on the health and well-being of the dogs. These practices can lead to a higher risk of genetic health issues in the dogs, such as albinism, as well as unethical breeding conditions.

Adult Pugs typically weigh between 14 and 18 pounds and stand between 10 and 12 inches tall. Their small size and charming and friendly personality makes them well-suited as indoor companion dogs for families and individuals alike.

Yes, Pugs shed. They have a short, dense coat that sheds consistently throughout the year, with some heavier shedding occurring during seasonal changes, typically in the spring and fall.


Regular grooming, including brushing their coat a few times a week, can help manage shedding by removing loose fur and reducing the amount of hair that ends up on furniture and clothing. Additionally, providing a balanced diet and maintaining their overall health can contribute to healthier skin and coat conditions, potentially reducing shedding.

Historically, Pugs used to be slightly taller with longer legs and a more well-defined physique. They also sported a longer snout. Despite these differences, their distinctive wrinkled faces, large eyes, and curled tails were already defining features that set them apart.

A Pug has a short, wrinkled face with large, expressive eyes and a small, curled tail. Their ears fold forward, further contributing to their adorable look. Pugs are a brachycephalic breed, which means they have flat faces and short snouts.

Pugs have short snouts due to a genetic trait known as brachycephaly. Brachycephalic dogs such as Pugs have flattened and shortened facial features, including a short snout and a pushed-in appearance.


The short snout of Pugs is a characteristic that has been intentionally bred for generations. While it gives Pugs their distinctive look, it’s important to note that brachycephalic breeds, including Pugs, can face certain health issues associated with their facial structure.

Pug Temperament

Learn about about the Pug temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

No, Pugs do not bark a lot. While they can express themselves through barking on occasion, they tend to be more reserved compared to some other breeds, which makes this generally quiet breed ideal for apartment living. When they do bark, it sounds more like a “yodel” or an excited “yip.”


Individual personalities can vary, so there is bound to be a barky Pug out there. As with any dog, proper training and socialization from a young age can help curb excessive barking if it becomes an issue.

Although Pugs can technically be trained as service dogs, they are not commonly used for physically demanding service roles like guiding or mobility assistance due to their small size and brachycephalic (short-nosed) structure. Pugs are better suited as emotional support or therapy dogs where, unlike service dogs, the job is to provide comfort and companionship to individuals in need.

Yes, Pugs are good dogs. Pugs have eager-to-please temperaments and endearing personalities and are well-known for following their people around the house. They’re playful, sturdy playmates who crave human companionship but are also very fond of the snooze button. 


It’s important to mention, however, that they do have some specific care needs, such as breathing troubles and heat sensitivity.

Yes, Pugs are easy to train with the right approach. Thanks to their independent, opinionated nature, Pugs can sometimes be a challenge to train, but with a bit of patience and consistency, they can learn to become well-behaved pups. They can also bore easily with repetitive exercises, so training sessions should be kept short and engaging, and don’t forget to make it fun (code word for T-R-E-A-T-S!).

Pugs are smart but they may not be top of the class when it comes to problem-solving abilities like some other breeds. Pugs excel in social and emotional intelligence and they’re also fairly adaptable too.

Yes, Pugs are good with cats. Pugs are generally sociable and friendly, which can work in their favor when sharing a home with a feline friend, but cats can be quite independent and sometimes don’t appreciate the enthusiastic and playful nature of a Pug. Early socialization and positive interactions can help foster a harmonious relationship between Pugs and cats.

Yes, Pugs are good with kids and make excellent pals. Though Pugs are very strong-willed, they are mostly gentle, non-aggressive dogs and are thus the perfect pet for families with small children. They tend to be patient and enjoy playtime with their pint-sized human companions.


As with any breed, it is recommended that your child is always supervised when interacting with your Pug to keep both the child and dog safe.

Yes, Pugs can swim, but that doesn’t mean they’ll enjoy it. Pugs aren’t exactly built for swimming; their stout bodies and short legs make them less-than-ideal swimmers. They also tend to be overweight and have flat faces, which can make it more difficult for them to keep their heads above water. 


That said, some Pugs can learn to swim with proper guidance and a life jacket for added safety.

Pug Health

Learn about about the Pug health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Yes, Pugs need grooming. Pugs are generally low-maintenance, though — thanks to their very short, smooth coat, regular baths and the occasional brushing will do right by this dog. Because pugs are so wrinkly, it’s essential to clean and dry them regularly to prevent skin issues. Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are also essential for their overall health and well-being.

Yes, Pugs tend to have breathing problems because they are a brachycephalic breed. Pugs may have narrowed nostrils and elongated and thickened soft palates, which partially obstruct their airways, leading to snoring, snorting, and noisy breathing.

Yes, Pugs have health problems. Those endearing little flat, wrinkly faces and bulging eyes belie a susceptibility to eye problems, infections in the nasal folds of the skin, and the following health issues:


  1. Hip and/or Elbow Dysplasia: Hip and elbow dysplasia are two of the most common skeletal diseases seen in dogs. They are similar diseases in which either the hip or elbow joint has grown abnormally or is misshapen. The abnormal shape prevents the joints and sockets from properly meeting one another, resulting in rubbing and grinding instead of sliding smoothly.

  2. Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE): PDE is a deadly brain disease unique to Pugs. There is little known about this disease, which is basically an inflammation of the dog’s brain, and there is no treatment or cure. The inflammation may cause seizures, pacing in circles, loss of muscle coordination, lethargy, head pressing, agitation or aggression, blindness, and eventually death. PDE can only be officially diagnosed by testing the dog’s brain tissue after they die.

  3. Legg-Calve-Perthes: This condition causes the head of the femur (located in a dog’s hind leg) to spontaneously degenerate. Over time, this will lead to erosion of the hip joint and arthritis. A dog suffering from Legg-Calve-Perthes will become lame, limp while walking, and experience pain when moving the hip joint. Surgery is the most effective treatment for the disorder.

  4. Stenotic Nares: Stenotic nares are common in brachycephalic breeds — dogs with extremely short snouts like the Pug. Stenotic nares are present at birth and are caused by a defect of the cartilage in the nose. Over time, pinched nostrils can make breathing increasingly difficult. This is hard on the larynx and could eventually cause it to collapse, making breathing nearly impossible and often leading to death.

  5. Entropion: Entropion is a genetic defect where one or both eyelids are inverted or roll inward and rub on the surface of the eye. The misshapen eyelid can cause scratches in the eye from foreign objects such as eyelashes or hairs.

  6. Others: Pugs can also experience obesity, skin infections, ear infections (because floppy-eared breeds do not drain water effectively), epilepsy, patellar luxation (slipped kneecap), eye problems such as cataracts and dry eye, nerve degeneration (a slow progressing and painless weakening of the hind legs), and sensitivity to heat and anesthesia.


To identify some of these issues, a veterinarian may recommend diagnostic tests for the dog. When given the proper diet and exercise, many of these issues can be kept at bay.

Adopting a Pug

Learn about about acquiring a Pug – the pros and cons of adopting versus going through a breeder, and associated costs.

Adopt a Pet can be a great starting point to find a good Pug. You’ll find lists of Pugs available for adoption from various rescue organizations and shelters across the country. Use the advanced search and filter options on these websites to narrow down your criteria. You can specify the breed (Pug), age, location, and other preferences to find Pugs that match your requirements. Once you find a Pug that catches your eye, reach out to the rescue organizations or shelters through the contact information provided.

It’s not inherently cruel to buy a Pug, but the ethical considerations lie in where and how you buy the dog. Adopting a pug from a rescue organization or shelter is a more compassionate and ethical choice, as it not only provides a home for a dog in need but also discourages unethical breeding practices.

The cost to adopt a Pug is around $300 in order to cover the expenses of caring for the dog before adoption. You can adopt a Pug at a much lower cost than buying one from a breeder. Buying Pugs from breeders can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000, depending on whether or not they’re from show-dog bloodlines.

You should consider adopting a pug if you’re looking for a relatively small dog that doesn’t require extensive exercise with a low-maintenance coat. Pugs are known for their affectionate and friendly nature, making them great for individuals who live alone or families looking for a loving pet.

The easiest way to adopt a Pug is through a rescue that specializes in Pugs. A great place to start is by starting a breed search on Adopt a Pet. The search will show you all the available Pugs in your area.

Pug fun facts

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