The pug is a small to medium size breed of dog with a short nose,a wrinkly face, and a curled tail. They come in a variety of colors and have a compact, square body and a fine glossy coat. These dogs are known to have a big personality in a little dog size. They originally came from China but became popular in Western Europe. Their original name was lo chiange-sze or lo-sze (shorter version) and their temperament is strong willed and suitable for families with children.

The early pug was referenced back to the time of Confucius (551 BC). Then, in 168 to 190 AD, they were considered the "property" of the Emperor and held a status as high a rank as the wives. The soldiers were to guard them and they were fed the best meat and rice. Also, if anyone tried to steal one they would be put to death. During this time, the Emperor, Ling To considered the pug a treasure..

In the Sixteenth Century, the breed became the chosen dog in 1572 when a pug saved the King of Holland's life one night.. While being at war with Spain, the barking sounds of his pug warned him of intruders coming so he was able to escape and be saved from being killed. The breed was now popular in the European countries and often used as guard dogs and in tracking people and animals.

During the Eighteenth Century, the popularity of the breed spread to France. Josephine, who was due to marry Napoleon Bonaparte, owned a pug named Fortune. In 1796, when they got married, Napoleon refused to share the bed with Fortune. Josephine then refused to share the bed with Napoleon unless there was room made for her pug. From this point on, Napoleon shared his bed with both Fortune and his wife, Josephine.

The pug was also included in paintings by an English Painter named William Hogarth, who himself owned one. He painted a portrait of himself and his pug, Trump, in 1745. This portrait is still shown at the Tate Gallery located in London. In the Nineteenth Century in England, Queen Victoria helped establish the Kennel Club which is an organization handling one breed of dog. The Kennel Club manages and issues the rules for breed shows.

During the nineteenth century, the pug arrived in the United Sates and was making its way into the homes of families as well as dog shows. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885. In 1931, the Pug Dog Club of America was founded and in 1981, a pug won in the Westminster Kennel Club show in the U.S.

Today, pugs are a valued family member in many homes. They are a great companion for many, especially the elderly. Although they do tend to sleep a lot, they are a lot of fun to take care of. They are curious animals and can also be a bit stubborn at time. However, they are very intelligent, loyal pets who don't mind to be dressed up in silly clothes. It's always a good idea to learn all you can about pugs before getting one.