Pugs are the Best (The Best Dogs Ever)

By: Elaine Landau
Publisher: Lerner Publications
Publication Date: August 2010
ISBN: 978-0761350583
Reviewed by: Deb Fowler
Review Date: October 2010

You can like dogs in general, but there is always that one very special breed of dog that you love. If you take a look at the pug on the cover of this book and your heart skips a beat, perhaps this is the dog for you, the dog that you've just gotta love. This little "flat-faced pooch with a curly tail" is particularly appealing to many people. It is a love bug in disguise and is almost as much into cuddling as it is into food and water. The pug is a small sturdy dog that can weigh up to "18 pounds (8 kilograms)" and is about twice the size of your average house cat. It is a short haired cutie whose coat comes in "either black or tan." If you want a friendly dog, you need look no more.

Pugs play well with others whether it be of the animal or human persuasion, but are especially in tune with their human owners. Historically, the dog most similar to the breed we now know originated in China. They were particularly spoiled and even "slept on silk pillows." In this book you'll get a brief glimpse of famous people who were attracted to pugs and will learn that they became a special favorite in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has placed this breed in the toy group. Do you still think this dog is for you?

No doubt this dog is adorable, but the author stresses that you need to find a dog that will fit in with your family and their lifestyle. If you aren't into hair all over your house you might want to reconsider adding a pug to your family. There are other pluses and minuses you and your family will have to think about. You'll learn that "pugs were bred to be with people," you'll learn about their personalities, that pugs have trouble living in certain areas, how much exercise they need, what you'll need to have on hand before your pup comes home, the importance of proper veterinarian care, its grooming needs, and its expected lifespan.

This is an excellent overview of what many people think is the most lovable, best dog in existence, the pug. There are many photographs in this book that just shout "adorable." This is a basic introduction to the breed, its history, and needs. If you are planning to add a pug to your family, or any breed for that matter, you will be well advised to pick up a breed specific book. This book takes a very casual, chit chatty approach to talking about the pug, even throwing out a few suggestions for names. The basic layout of the book is very appealing, it is well written, and researched. In the back of the book is an index, a glossary, and additional recommended book and website resources to explore. How many times did the pug win Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show? If you know the answer, no doubt you already own a pug or two!

Quill says: This is an excellent overview of what many people think is the most lovable, best dog in existence, the pug!