Are Pugs Aggressive? How Could You Deal With This?

People, who intend to welcome a Pug into their home often ask one fundamental question, Are Pugs Aggressive? It seems a tricky question as even pet lovers can not say that a Pug is the right dog breed for them and their families. If you find yourself in the same situation, this article is for you! Before adopting them, let’s scroll down to learn more about Pugs’ aggression.

Are Pugs Aggressive?

Have you ever researched a Pug dog’s character? If yes, you might find it a pleasure to know that he is a fun, sociable companion and prefers going out. Like a Labradoodle or a short-haired German shepherd, a Pug is also well-known for his friendliness and loyalty. 

We have always heard of dogs’ protective instinct for their owner. Yet Pugs are the exceptions to the rule. Since their main goal is to make their owners happy, they don’t tend to behave overwhelmingly like Bulldog breeders. 

So, how many times have you heard of a Pug dog that did a lot of damage to humans and society? Well, the frequency is sporadic as Pugs are well-recognized for their loyalty. 

These Pugs dogs, however, can learn to respond aggressively in certain situations. Let’s continue reading to explore why a Pug can react aggressively!

Which Reasons Make Your Pugs Aggressive?

How can a Pug behave so aggressively? The answer varies from the Pug’s genes, environment, and socialization level. However, scientists and veterinarians have summarized some of the most common reasons in the following list.

A strong Pug
A strong Pug

Provoking Actions

A Pug might become aggressive as a reaction to its fears or a threat to the outer environment. He or she might feel provoked when seeing something big and strange for the first time. Instead of fleeing away, some brave Pugs choose to remain and prepare for a small fight.

Lack Of Proper Socialization And Training

The wrong training process of the owner for their Pugs in its puppyhood might also lead to aggression. Specifically, some people tend to keep Pugs at home or put them in a small case, which leads to a lack of connection to the outdoor environment. As a result, your Pugs will lack confidence when they grow up.

Fear 

A Pug must show aggression when he feels upcoming fears or threats. For example, a stranger comes into your house while you are busy cooking or working in a bathroom. Your Pug will now become aggressive to protect you and your home. 

Food Aggression

You must be surprised that a Pug can overeat without a haul. However, whether a Pug can behave aggressively to compete for food is still a mystery. Many Pugs owners think that Pugs only act aggressively when they can sense the value of its nourishment.

The cute pug is getting ready to eat deliciously
The cute pug is getting ready to eat deliciously

A Pug might show aggressive behavior when he is sick. A Pug dog might experience medical conditions such as thyroid disorders, neurological problems, brain tumors, and seizures. 

Gradually, your Pug might bear enough of these sharp pains without you knowing about it. Therefore, it tends to become angrier towards others with helplessness.

Further readings:

Are Pugs Aggressive to Other

Dogs?

A Pug dog is a friendly and loyal servant to its owner. Therefore, Pugs can quickly learn to socialize and respect other dogs in your family. However, a Pug can sometimes show aggression toward other dog breeds if it feels vulnerable or is being mistreated.

Strangers?

It is widely known that a Pug rarely shows aggression toward newcomers. However, your Pug can differentiate between your friend and a stranger. In most cases, the Pug will depend on how you interact with that person. By that, we mean your Pug dog won’t attack the newcomer if you get to know him first. 

How To Prevent Aggression In Your Pug?

In this part, we would like to give you some tips to prevent aggression in your Pug. You may find it difficult at first, as Pugs can be so stubborn and make you exhausted, but we believe you’re getting there with your patience.

First and foremost, we suggest you come to see its parent dogs before adoption. This would reduce the chance of getting an aggressive dog for you. You can contact a veterinarian or a professional puppy center for more guidance.

After that, you need to spend some time socializing with your dog. You can start from week 3 to week 20 when your Pug is small. At this stage, you can take a walk with your dog. From our experience, an open public space like a park will help your dog feel more relieved than at home.

Ball catching is a super-funny game to play with your Pug.
Ball catching is a super-funny game to play with your Pug.

Next, we recommend you practice some small exercises with your Pug, such as throw-and-catch ball, obedience training, etc. You can help both your Pug dog and yourself release a lot of tension and become more active and sporty. Be noted that you must use encouraging words to communicate with him. There is no need to use harassment or scolding words to control him. 

The Bottom Lines

Nurturing a Pug dog could be a real challenge for every first owner. However, you can still manage your steps to get the right Pug that fits your lifestyle, personality, and family. We hope this article can give you the best answers to the initial question Are Pugs Aggressive? Thank you for reading.

Related post: Best Collar For Pugs – Top 11 Best Collars