In recent years pugs have slowly become the world’s favorite dog, often being the subject of viral videos and pop culture movements. But why is this? Well, there are a few reasons. It’s because pugs are cute, loveable, energetic and silly. And what else could you ask for from man’s best friend?
Whenever we think of pugs, a pretty clear image comes to mind. We imagine a small chubby dog with drooping ears, large bulging eyes and, usually, yellowish-white fur. And by doing this we are actually providing a disservice to the other breeds of pug in the world. For like most species of dog, there’s more than one.
But how many breeds of pug are there in the world? And what colors are they? To help answer these questions, we have compiled together some handy information down below. There you will find all you need to know about the pug breed and all the quirky characteristics that come in hand with these amazing dogs.
How many breeds of pug are there?
It may be hard to imagine, but pugs have been around for a very long time. And historically they have always been a very popular breed of dog. Over 2000 years ago, pugs were bred as lap dogs by the Emperors of ancient China, with the imperial court favoring the dog for its small size and flat face.
For a species that has existed for millennia, it makes sense that there would be a few different breeds frolicking on the face of the earth. In fact, there are currently three breeds of pug in existence:
The Fawn Pug
Fawn pugs are probably the most universally recognized species of the little dog. But they themselves also come into a selection of different colors. The traditional Fawn is the pug that we most commonly associate with the breed and they sport the typical yellowish-white fur.
Next, we have the Apricot Fawn which can often be found with a short coat of a goldish-orange hue. And finally, the Silver Fawn, which is categorized by its silvery-gray coloring.
The Brindle Pug
Brindle pugs are often regarded as the most visually striking of the pug family. This is because their fur mixes together light and dark tones, creating a marbled effect not found on any other pug breed. It is unclear what causes this particular coloring, although specialists believe that it stems from another breed being introduced into the bloodline.
Like their Fawn cousins, Brindle Pugs have existed for a very long time. In fact, artworks from the 18th Century have depicted the dogs among the ranks of European nobility.
The Black Pug
Finally, we have the breed we all came here to see, the Black Pug. Known for their striking obsidian coat, these little dogs have become very popular among pug enthusiasts. However, this adoration was not always the case.
Interestingly, Black Pugs were often overlooked in favor of their Fawn cousins. With many believing that their black fur was a form of birth defect. However, their popularity began to soar when Queen Victoria began adopting the little black dogs. Demonstrating that they were just as loveable and loyal as any pug breed.
Is a Black Pug rare?
If you are interested in purchasing a Black Pug, then you need to know that they are quite rare. Although this does not mean that they are the rarest of the pug breeds. Nor does it mean that they are completely unobtainable. Black Pugs may not be as common as Fawn Pugs, but they are still more common than certain dog breeders would like you to believe.
Unfortunately, there are breeders who would charge extortionate prices for the breeding of Black Pugs. Misinforming dog lovers into believing that the breed is more rare and unique than it actually is.
If you are interested in owning a Black Pug, make sure that you are not being overcharged and that the breeder is completely reputable. You must also make sure that the breeder provides you with all the necessary paperwork and health certificates before completing the transaction.
Alternatively, lots of pugs are given up for adoption each year and so you may be able to rescue one from a shelter or kennel. Please make sure that you are ready to adopt a dog before entering the adoption process.
What is the rarest pug color?
Considering that Black Pugs are not as rare as you may have originally thought, what is the rarest pug color? In recent years it has been identified that the Brindle Pug is the rarest of the pug breeds. In fact, only 1% of pugs are born with the Brindle gene, meaning that there is only a small amount of the breed in existence.
Because of this, Brindle Pugs can be particularly hard to purchase and very few breeders will be able to provide you with one. If you are capable of locating a Brindle Pug, you have to understand that their rarity makes them a very expensive breed. Brindle Pugs will often sell for an average price of $2,000.
Again we implore you to purchase from a reputable breeder, who will provide you with all the necessary paperwork and information.
