How Long Do Pugs Live?
Pugs live 13-15 years on average. Here is the AKC breed profile, the health areas to stay ahead of, and how to give a Pug more good years.
Breed profile
Breed profile and trait ratings: American Kennel Club. Trait scores are AKC ratings from 1 to 5.
At 14-18 pounds, the Pug is a small breed. Small breeds age more slowly and are among the longest-lived dogs, which its 13-15 years average reflects.
Does a Pug fit your life?
The Pug is a cheerful, deeply affectionate companion that's wonderful with kids, other dogs, and strangers, and settles happily into apartments or busy households. It's quiet for a dog and rarely barks. The tradeoff is surprising shedding for a smooth coat, and a strong attachment that makes this breed struggle with being left alone.
A great match if you
- You'll have a dog that's wonderful with children.
- You'll enjoy an easy time with other dogs and new people, this breed greets everyone warmly.
- You'll get a playful, clownish companion that keeps things light.
- You'll find this dog adapts easily to apartments, travel, and changing routines.
- You'll rarely deal with unwanted barking, this is one of the quieter breeds.
Think twice if
- You'll deal with real shedding, the short coat sheds more than it looks like it should.
- You shouldn't rely on this dog as a guard dog, pugs treat strangers as friends rather than threats.
- You'll want to avoid long stretches alone, this breed bonds tightly and can struggle with solitude.
Health areas for the Pug
Based on the breed profile, the health areas most worth staying ahead of for a Pug are Eye and vision and Respiratory (owners often watch for dry eye, eye, breathing problem).
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Pug facts, quick answers
How long do Pugs live?
Pugs live 13-15 years on average, and plenty go beyond that. The two biggest levers on where a given dog lands are keeping it at a lean, healthy weight and staying ahead of the health issues the breed is prone to.
How big do Pugs get?
A full-grown Pug stands 10-13 inches and weighs 14-18 pounds, which puts it firmly in the small-breed range.
What kind of dog is a Pug?
The Pug is a toy breed, and one of the country's more popular breeds, ranked 38 of 208. It is a small dog that typically lives around 13-15 years.
Are Pugs high-energy dogs?
Pugs are moderate in energy, so daily activity matters but they are not bouncing off the walls.
Are Pugs easy to train?
Pugs are very trainable and love having their brain worked, picking up commands quickly with positive, consistent training.
Do Pugs shed a lot?
Yes, they do. Expect loose hair year-round with heavier seasonal blowouts, so regular brushing and a good vacuum come with the territory.
Do Pugs bark a lot?
They are on the quiet side and are not prone to nuisance barking.
Are Pugs good with kids?
Pugs are great with children, gentle and patient, which is a big reason families love the breed; supervise young kids around any dog.
Do Pugs get along with other dogs?
Pugs are generally sociable with other dogs and usually enjoy the company.
Are Pugs friendly with strangers?
Pugs are friendly with strangers and tend to greet new people like old friends.
Are Pugs good for first-time owners?
Pugs are a forgiving choice for a first dog, thanks to their trainability, adaptability and manageable needs.
