Black Pugs are completely black coated all over. They have small droopy ears, flat faves and curly tails. Black Pug temperaments are friendly, confident and loyal. They are in terms of personality a perfect family pet for kids and new dog owners. Their only downside is health. Today we’ll look at how to adopt, buy, raise and care for a black Pug puppy to help them turn into the fittest possible adult dog with the best chance of a happy, long lifespan.
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The black Pug is not a separate breed. But it is one of the two official colors that the standard Pug breed comes in. Pugs have always been a very popular breed. But recently the black Pug specifically has seen quite a rise in popularity.
Black Pug History and Origins
The Pug is an ancient dog breed, and the black variation is no different. Originating in China at least two-thousand years ago, Pugs were well-loved by Emperors along with other flat-faced dogs such as the Pekingese and the Shih Tzu.
In the 1500s, they were introduced into Europe via Dutch traders. From here, the Pug became a hugely popular and sought-after breed. It is unclear when the black variation of the Pug first made an appearance.
Many people believe it was around the 1700s since the esteemed painter William Hogarth depicted a number of black Pugs in his paintings. But, since then, they have always been popular little dogs.
What do Black Pugs Look Like?
Aside from their glossy black coat, there are a few other distinguishing features of this little dog. All Pugs, regardless of their color, have flat faces and short corkscrew tails that curl over their back.
This breed has a short, dense coat. If you choose a black Pug, they will be black all over with no other colors or markings. Their coat does shed a moderate amount. But other than that it just needs a weekly brush to keep on top of it.
These little dogs shouldn’t need to be bathed unless they get particularly dirty and the nails should be trimmed regularly.
Adult black Pug dogs will grow be from 10 to 13 inches tall. Full grown Pugs should weigh from 14 to 18 pounds. Females are often a little smaller than males.
Black Pug Temperament
The temperament of this breed is partly why it is so loved. Pugs are incredibly friendly dogs and take well to training. However, one must be careful to not be too harsh with the dog. Positive and patient training works best for the Pug.
The full grown black Pug is very social and tends to get rather anxious if left alone for long periods of time. So, raising them in a household where there is at least one human usually around at all times would be best for them.
Black Pug Health
Since the black Pug dog is just a regular Pug with a dark coat, they still sadly face all the health issues known within the breed.
The Pug is a brachycephalic breed, meaning that they have a shortened skull in comparison to other dogs. This is due to hereditary developments within these particular breeds.
This is why Pugs have the very flat face many people adore them for, but with it comes a multitude of severe health issues.
Breathing Problems
The shortening of the skull causes compression of the nasal cavity, making it much more difficult for a brachycephalic dog to breathe.
This is why the full grown black Pug has a reputation as a noisy breather; it is, in fact, struggling to do so.
This is further exacerbated by heat and physical activity, making it a real danger to exercise a black Pug on a warm sunny day.
These breathing problems can eventually lead to laryngeal collapse, a very serious condition that can be quickly fatal in severe cases.
It’s important to keep the Pug fit by taking it out on a daily walk if the weather is not too hot. Exercise in hot weather can prove to be dangerous. So in those cases exercise the dog somewhere cool indoors if possible.
It is recommended you use a harness rather than a traditional lead when walking your dog. Having a lead around a Pug’s neck can exacerbate breathing issues already present in the dog.
Eye Problems
Brachycephalic dogs also tend to have eye problems. Due to the structural problems of the skull, their eye sockets tend to be shallow, giving adult black Pugs the bulging eyes they are known for.
This can lead to painful issues such as corneal ulcers. In extreme cases, Pug eyes have been known to pop out of their sockets.
Skin Conditions
The Pug dog also tends to suffer from skin problems due to the significant amounts of wrinkling and skin folds present in the breed. This can lead to infections and irritation that may be hidden from view within a fold.
Birthing Problems
As the Pug is an extreme example of a brachycephalic breed due to how incredibly flat their faces are, they can also run into birthing problems.
The large head of a Pug puppy may be unable to pass through the pelvis of the mother. Without surgical intervention, this can lead to the death of both the litter and the mother.
Tails and Spines
This is a breed with a very curly tail, known as a screw tail. However, this twisting of the vertebrae in the tail can present itself further up the spine, which can cause severe issues—known as Hemivertebrae.
If the black Pug has severe twisting of the spine due to this condition, it can cause paralysis and ataxia of the pelvic limbs, incontinence, kyphosis, lordosis, and scoliosis. These conditions can be very painful and debilitating for the dog and may require surgical correction if possible.
Black Pug Breeders
Black Pug dogs are popular, so it won’t be too hard to find one at a breeder. But, it’s important to make sure you’re choosing a reputable breeder.
The best breeders will be able to provide all possible health certificates. They may also make efforts to breed for longer snouts in Pugs, like Retro Pug breeders. Because of the enormous number of health problems in this breed, you should consider rescue dogs.
If your heart is set on a Pug, rescue can be a great way to offer one a second chance at a loving home.
(paid link) And lots of Pugs are given up when owners realise how much care they really need.
Rescue center staff will ask you lots of questions to make sure the dog is going to the right home.
Is a Black Pug Right for Me?
This is something only you can decide. But before making any decisions it’s important to consider the severe health issues present in the breed due to its structure.
The features that make this dog cute and desirable can potentially cause them severe pain and discomfort, which in some cases can lead to life-threatening conditions.
So, we recommend you look at other small dogs who don’t suffer from so many health issues, such as Whippets or Border Terriers.
If you have your heart set on a black Pug, ensure you can put in a large amount of time to care for them. Educate yourself on the best care for this breed.
As with purchasing any new dog, be sure to find a reputable breeder who can inform you about any health issues present in the parents and allow you to meet them. That way you can be sure to avoid any potential genetic issues.
Jen says
I have had pugs all of my 53 years on this earth:) When I was a kid we feed the horrible kibble (it’s all that was around). I have owned all fawn pugs until my recent. He was abandoned, and found on a very busy street in the Nashville area. My pugs growing up did not have a long life. When trying to find a food that would help with their allergies and other issues, I realized that I would need to cook for them. The crap kibble on the market was causing a lot of health issues and there was nothing out there to help! All there was were foods (kibble) that were being recalled for killing dogs. I would have no more for my loved fur babies that were like my kids. I ended up cooking for them until an option came along. My last pug before Ozzy(present) lived to a month before her 16th birthday! My home cooking and the company I now use for food has helped my babies live a better allergy relief life. I might pay a lot for the food,but I don’t have to go to the vet near as much. I believe in human grade food for our pups. What do you think others long before us fed their dogs before kibble came along?
Kim says
I have a 14 yr 2 month fawn Pug, Bella. She’s been an amazing dog. I got her when she was 5 months old. She always needed to sit in the highest places, like the back of your chair or couch. She also always has to touch you, even if just with a paw.
As many have mentioned they can have a few health issues. Along with her annual check up and immunizations, she has needed to have her teeth cleaned every 2 years since she was 8. Her ears are often yeasty and require drops.
Other than that, she has funky nails that grow so fast, yet the quick is very long and even the Vet cannot trim them without them bleeding. Needless to say, she doesn’t like having them trimmed. I have found a “dremel” type nail “sander” helps ease her anxiety. She’s silly as every, all but her gait is off due to osteoarthritis and now at 14 she has congestive heart failure. I have just invested in a new 9 week old black Pug which I will be picking up on Saturday. I cannot wait!!
Colleen says
We owned a fawn pug who we lost aged 14 years and 4 months old,he was the best little dog and the love of our lives.At the beginning he had a retained testicle, then no real health problems until he lost his eye in an accident aged 6,he had optimmune every day of his life
after this , he then had occasional attacks of pancreatitis which I mostly got under control by changing his diet.He had 2 or 3 teeth cleanings in his life and several teeth removed at about age 12.He developed hind leg weakness at about age 9 but still managed to walk up until the day he died,he was on gabapentin 10mg and tablets for reflux,but we wouldnt change a thing ,he was the most loyal, loving dog that anyone could wish for and we were all heartbroken at the loss of our best boy.The pug is the most delightful loving breed and the only dog I would ever own
Terry Rowe says
We’ve had our female black pug two years now. Fortunately she is very fit & active with longer legs than some with no eye or breathing issues. She is a picky eater but eventually we found a food she likes. You could not wish for a more loving & friendly little dog, a proper lap dog but loves a chase & ruff house play with any other dog. As with all breeds you can encounter health issues, but buy a black pug & fill your life with a loving companion
Lee says
I am now the owner of my 3rd black pug and love the breed. I don’t agree that they have a lot of health problems. And they are pretty low maintenance. They require minimal grooming and not too much exercise. They just want to be with their humans. They are sweet natured and are not big barkers.
MarthaWSelden says
My dog Espresso ( Chug)father pure bred show dog-Pug.
Just died in my arms.
She was 15 yrs / 8 months old.
Beautiful teeth ( never cleaned) minimal grooming, a few ear infections 2-3.
Smart ! puzzle solver.
Affectionate, explorer, sun bathed in yard. Black chug ,w/ age markings on face & chest turned a silvery white~ beautiful!
No health issues. On constant diet , science diet & Blue. Favorite past time looking for food;) lol!
Would go & do anything to be w/ you.
Died naturally ~ all normal activities ~ Blew me away!
No clue;(
Karina says
Choco is a 10 1/2 month old black pug. She is so energetic and full of life. Loves attention, and exercises regularly. The only problem we have is that she is such a picky eater and refuses to eat dry food. On the other hand, fruit is her favorite including apples, bananas, mango, watermelon, and etc. We are so lucky to have her as a part of our little family and hope she never gets sick.
Pamela J McKeever says
I have 4 pugs 3 fawn 1 black. I had allergy issues at first then switch their food to blue buffalo. No more itches.. didn’t even need steroid this year. So grateful. However behavior issues. Jealousy.. is the main issue here. And playtime with Hooman. Trying to give equal amounts.
Eileen Yankee says
I have a Black Pug her name is Angel she will be 15years old August 28. Like most Black Pugs she has been ill most of her life. She has had Kidney problems, skin, and food. But through all she has never been mean or try to bite anyone. She has saved me. And l would do anything for her.
Ray says
We had 2 black pugs, but unfortunately lost one to a tumor. The other, now an 8yr old female. No real health problems other than anal glands. She however has been getting quite gray, mostly since her run in with a pitbull, who bit her head and lost an eye. Sweetest and funniest dog ever!
Maree Toohey says
My 12yr rBlack Pug TYSON is an amazing little boy. He has the sweetest loving nature and is a definite mummy’s boy. He loves to be nursed and loves everyone. He loves to be close to me but also can be left alone watching his favourite tv shows Yes he loves the television. Tyson o ly real health has been his teeth. He o ly has 5 teeth now but manages to eat as usual. His coat is amazing and he only sheds slightly as he has a single black shiny coat.
Kathy says
My sweet black Pug will be 10 on Feb 5th. She’s a sweet girl….not a mean bone in her body, but she is quite the diva! Loves constant attention and adoration but the friendliest dog ever.
No health problems except the need to have her anal glands expressed and recently has had alot of skin allergies.
Well worth it though as she is a love!!
Janet Betts Dean says
Luna is 5 years old and has had zero health issues. She is my 4th Pug and first Black Pug. None of my previous Fawn Pugs had any health issues either. Luna is quite the little clown, and she is my constant companion. She is also a Daddy’s girl, and her second Mommy is our daughter who lives with us. She loves anyone who comes into our house! We’ve kept our Pugs trim by not giving them table scraps or any other human food. I would recommend this breed to anyone!
Tammy Dierkes says
We have a Black Pug, Reggie, he is now 10. His health problems has been very minimum. About two years ago had a cleaning surgery on his ears, I could not get them clean the nasty just kept coming, nasty smell. After procedure he has had no issues. He is so funny, keeps us all laughing. Very loving and sweet. Love to eat! He does take a pill everyday for the itching but as long as he takes his meds no issues at all.. Noticed when brushing his teeth he might have a black tooth that needs removed must have vet look at… He is our baby for sure… have been talking about getting a new baby pug… awh… Enjoy if decide to purchase a baby pug, I promise you will not regret it….
Mary B Martin says
My black pug Suzy is 9 1/2. She is healthy and happy, and yes a bit full-figured, but we walk 3 miles every morning in cool/low humidity months and of couse much shorter walks in summer. I clean her face and eye area every day, give her baths, have her nails trimmed and anal glands expressed. She has had no health issues. She is a terrific companion, friendly to all, and of course, quite smart! I love her dearly.
john konrath says
Pug myelopathy is another major and widespread health issue in older pugs. Spinal abnormalities result in affected dogs losing the use of their rear legs.
Maree Toohey says
My black pug is from a good breeder he is 12.5yrs old has a bit of arthritis and the injections have made a huge difference. He is the love of my life I Would always have another pug they just have the sweetest nature. His only health problem was dental problems. He has had a lot of teeth removed now. He is worth every cent I spent on his dental work.
Nick says
We have had Maggie the black pug for 2 years now with 0 health problems. She’s the best dog we have ever owned she loves to play and cuddle and is smart as a whip she is such a joy to come home to. Pugs are the best.
Shay says
I have a 2 year old black pug and currently she had had 0 health issuez. She is loyal and love to be a clown. She is so smart and and show alit of affection I would recommend this breed just educate your self on their health problems so you can monitor them. I am a nurse and she comes to work with me and the patients love her,