Versatility of the Pug
by
Danielle M. Campi
Celestial Pugs of Northern California

      Pugs are very versatile little creatures.  They are extremely smart (contrary to un-popular belief), so smart in fact, that they know how to play dumb!  A true pug characteristic is their ability to play stone deaf when called, although they have incredible hearing and can hear a candy bar wrapper being opened in the next room!  Pugs are very clear on what they will and will not do and they will not work for free.  Once this is understood, a pug can be taught to do anything when the trainer offers rewards for their "labor."

       Pugs are absolutely wonderful athletes.  Even though they are more often than not labeled couch potatoes by those who do not know the true secret to getting them to perform, they are quite good at obedience and agility.  Medina, OH celebrity Dr. Christine Dresser, DVM of the Pedigree My Little Champions television commercial fame, has put many impressive obedience titles on her little pugs.  Most pugs have absolutely no fear and will dive full force into whatever they are doing, which makes them excellent agility competitors.  Just ask California trainers Pam Hartley, Elaine Garvey, and Julie Brinkley who have all had agility titled pugs.  Agility is really catching on in the pug circle and there promises to be many more competitors in the near future.

       Not only are pugs good at the "traditional" doggy-type competitions, but they are also holding their own in the more unusual activities too.  Sue McElwaine of San Martin, CA has one pug who absolutely loves fly-ball.  Jim and Judy Daly boast of the first carting pug in history in Brokton, MA.  Pugs have been making a splashing debut in movie roles with Milo and Otis and more recently Men In Black.  Pugs can definately hold their own when it comes to unique performances.

       Although they have proven themselves to be good athletes, pugs are also excellent in the roles they were created for; that of companion.  Their desire to please and to cuddle make them excellent candidates for therapy dog visits to nursing homes and hospitals.  Their easy laid-back attitude makes them great dogs for children.  Many kids are doing well in the various competition rings, such as junior showmanship, as Schuyler, NE native Cameron Warnke and Santa Ana, CA native Becky Nunes can agree.  Kerry McIntosh of Bennington, VT has no complaints about getting her pug's new CD title either!  Pugs and kids go together like peanut butter and jelly.

       As you can see, pugs there is so much more to a pug than just another "pretty face"!

Danielle M. Campi, Corresponding Secretary for the NCPC

Celestial Pugs of Northern California

CelestPugs@aol.com

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