Pugs are very mischievous, playful, goofy, curious dogs.  This can be fun and entertaining at first, but their curiosity and attention-seeking can lead to trouble without proper training.  They are also quite energetic.  Pugs are probably more energetic than people realise and can suffer from health problems like obesity if they are not given enough exercise.

With the right training, exercise and socialisation Pugs are very docile, clever, charming and social dogs.

Here are Pug training tips to help you understand your Pug’s needs.

Pugs are clever

Pugs are clever, although they probably aren’t renowned for being smart.

Start training early.

Pugs can learn a wide range of tricks using positive training techniques. Positive reinforcement techniques will allow your Pug to quickly learn that good things happen when they do something good.

A perfect way to start Pug training is with obedience training basics.  Train your Pug in essential commands such as stay, sit, drop and “leave it”.

Pugs are very playful and social

Start socialisation early.   It will help your Pug’s development and positively shape their temperament.

Socialise your Pug by educating them on behaving well and getting along politely with other animals, including other dogs.  It is also important to introduce them to different environments.

Giving your Pug the opportunity to interact positively with different kinds of dogs will help them develop new, good behaviours and will build their confidence.

It’s important for your Pug’s development and well-being that they be given the chance to socialise with dogs of different shapes, sizes, and colours.

Pugs are stubborn

A Pug’s intelligence also means they can be stubborn and easily form habits, both good and bad.

Set rules for your Pug and stick to them.  Don’t bend the rules because they are cute.

For example, decide early whether you will let your Pug sit on the couch or your bed.  Be aware that if you allow this to happen but change your mind later, it will be very challenging to get your Pug to stop.

One final Pug training tip

Our biggest tip for training your Pug is to find out what your Pug truly loves and how they love to learn and focus on those things.

Maybe your Pug loves a specific toy, a long walk or food treats.    Using their favourite toy or treat as a reward for good behaviour is the most effective Pug training strategy.

It is also important to remember if your Pug only socialises with other Pugs, they may not cope well or behave well when they come across other kinds of dogs.  We’ve written a blog on whether different dog breeds have different training needs.  Click here to check it out.

At Fur Get Me Not, we keep our group training classes and puppy playgroups small.  We get to know your Pug’s individual needs and can provide specialist training by highly skilled dog trainers.  To check out our dog training courses and playgroups, click here.