So, you have fallen in love with the Pug dog breed. You have done your homework and found that a Pug will fit perfectly into your home and lifestyle. You may even have a name picked out already! The excitement of welcoming a new canine family member into your life is an exciting moment. Now that you have your mind made up, you just have to find the perfect Pug for you. Choosing a Pug from a shelter can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.

Things to Know Before You Rescue a Pug

You will want to take the following Pug related things into consideration before rescuing a Pug.

• Pugs shed hair a lot
• Pugs love to socialize
• They are friendly with everyone even strangers
• Pugs are sensitive to extreme hot or cold temperatures
• Pugs snore, snort and grunt on a daily basis
• They have a stubborn streak
• They love food
• Pugs are loyal, friendly and loving, especially to their family

Finding the Perfect Pug for You

You will want to begin your search at your local dog shelter. If you have a variety of dog shelters or rescue organizations located within or close by your community, you are encouraged to visit as many as you can to find your new canine family member. Call ahead of time to make sure the facility is open and possibly make an appointment if necessary.

Ask Questions

Once you arrive at the dog shelter ask the caretakers if any Pug dogs are available for adoption. You will want to ask about how the Pug arrived at the shelter and if there are any known behavioral or health issues that need to be addressed. Remember just because the Pug may have an issue, doesn’t mean they are not adoptable. Remember that dogs that live in a shelter have most-likely gone through a lot in their short lives and may feel afraid or exhibit unusual behavior. At times, a check-up at the veterinarian, a much needed grooming session and obedience training is all that is needed.

Observe the Conditions

You will want to pay close attention to the dog of your choice. Ask if you can take the dog for a walk or play in an enclosed area with the dog. You will want to look for the following:

• A large amount of discolored discharge coming from the eyes
• The dog’s ability to see
• Any bruising, limping or favoring limbs when playing or walking
• Behavioral issues like aggression or extreme shyness
• The dog’s interest and energy level when playing with a ball or other toy
• The dog’s comfort level around you

You will want to choose a dog that seems playful, happy to see you and energetic. Lethargic, depressed or sickly dogs should be brought to the attention of the caretakers at the shelter or rescue center. Keep your options open. Don’t settle for the first adorable Pug you see. Take your time meeting all of them and visiting each shelter. You will know when you bond with one of them and then at that point you will want to inquire about proceeding with the adoption process.

Photo credit: Dippy Daloo/Flickr