Pug

:This article is about the dog breed. For other meanings of Pug, see Pug (disambiguation).

History

Most agree that the Pug originated in China, dating back to around 700 BC.

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It was bred to be a companion dog, not a guardian. Pugs were bred by the royalty

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and were pampered and spoiled. They have not lost this characteristic.

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Sometimes, as a mark of great esteem, they were given to members of the court.

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Some interesting anecdotal history (not officially verified but worth mentioning)

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includes an ancient Chinese law whereby only the Emperor was allowed to own a Pug.

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He could give one to his own selected friends, but otherwise it was punishable by

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death to have a Pug.

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When the Dutch started trading with China, the sailors smuggled

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some Pugs home to Europe where, being small dogs and natural companions,

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they quickly became popular. Again, they attached themselves to the nobility.

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Legend has it that, when William The Silent invaded England,

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he took his Pug with him. One night, as the Prince lay sleeping, assassins

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crept up on his tent. His Pug heard them and jumped up barking,

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thereby saving his master.

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References

• Pug Club of Canada