How Big Do Pugs Grow?

Small, stocky body, short, but very strong legs, and a flat, wrinkled face with those big bulging brown eyes. This is the adorable pug breed, but how big do pugs grow?

Black pugs were brought to the USA from Europe, where they were adored by several Royal Homes. The royals in turn got them from the Chinese, as many generations of Emperors were proud to call pugs their companions. 

how big do pugs grow
How Big Do Pugs Grow

What Kind Of Breed Is A Pug?

Pugs are sociable enough to be brought into a home with small children and other dogs. This breed is one of the friendliest, cuddiest, and happiest breeds in the world. If you have a small living space, a pug pal will fit in perfectly as it wouldn’t need a lot of space to move around. 

They would be a great match for first-time canine parents because pugs are very easy to train and care for. There are no training issues usually with this breed as they are very loyal and obedient to their owners. Pugs tend to be on the mischievous side from time to time, but this fact just adds to their charm. Pups typically grow out of it once they hit adolescence. 

Their Origin

The history of the breed goes all the way back to ancient Egypt where pugs were worshiped and cherished by the nobility. Egyptians always considered cats sacred animals, but dogs were on the same level as their feline counterparts, no doubt. They served as companions as well as guards, and protectors of assets.

Later on (around 2000 years ago), the selective pug members traveled to Tibet and were domesticated by Buddhists. Monks fell in love with these big-eyed pups and quickly developed a bond, making them devoted companions and monasteries’ guards. They let their owners know if an outsider was approaching the gates. Tibetian priests regarded Pugs sacred as they believed that the dogs helped to drive diabolic spirits away.  

The Chinese royal court adored Pugs and guarded them just like the other royal family members. These were some lucky pups to live in luxury and constantly be treated as dog royalty.

Read more about: There Are Many Good Names For Pugs

In the 16th century, the big-eyed pups traveled from China all the way to Europe to live in the European Royal Houses. Several Dutch merchants got a few pups and brought them to be introduced in royal courts (particularly Spanish, English, and French). These Chinese wonders quickly won the love and affection of many royal members and the aristocracy, becoming their loyal companions. 

How Big Do Pugs Grow?

Pugs are considered a toy breed, therefore they can’t get too big. So at what age are Pugs considered full-grown? They reach their maximum height anywhere from 10 months to a year. The usual height of a full-grown pug is between 10 inches and 13 inches and they weigh anywhere from 13 lbs to 18 lbs. 

These numbers are taken from an AKC’s (American Kennel Club) database. Males are overall bigger than females, so they are going to be taller and weigh more. But you don’t have to keep to the AKC standards to determine if your pooch is “normal.” Sometimes if they are more muscular (engage in vigorous types of activities every day), they are going to weigh more. Muscles are heavier than fat, that’s why you are going to see a higher weight number on that vet’s scale. 

It is always best to consult with an animal health practitioner to find out if your full-size pug pup is completely healthy (weight and height-wise). It may not fit the “standard,” but if the fat index is low, then you have nothing to worry about.

Are Pugs Better Suited For An Apartment Or A House?

Full-grown pugs are small enough for either an apartment or a house, it really doesn’t matter. They will fit into any space, and the good thing is that they don’t need much roaming around. They are regarded more like a “couch potato” dog, who loves lounging around catching some zzz’s. If you live in an apartment, just make sure to put rugs all over it for the pug pup to walk on. It will eliminate the danger of them slipping and hurting their legs since they are prone to dysplasia. 

A house is an even better scenario for a pug: more room to run around and have great playdates with that friendly neighborhood dog. And an added bonus: a Pug pooch can have a room for his own use (since a house usually has several bedrooms), where his crate, bedding, and toys will be. 

pug
Pug

How To Keep Your Pug As Healthy As Possible

  • Nutrition: make sure you feed your best friend good quality dry food. Hills Science Diet is one great brand to go with as it has a great reputation among pet parents worldwide. Also, don’t forget to give it plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Exercise: pugs don’t necessarily need vigorous types of activities every day, but make sure you provide some kind of exercise (daily walks work great) every day along with playtime.
  • Training: pugs are very intelligent and smart, therefore they pick up on training techniques relatively quickly. Be sure to use positive reinforcement and praise more than reprimanding (although there’s nothing wrong with the latter, for an extremely mischievous pal)
  • Health Issues: those big eyes are unfortunately susceptible to various vision issues, so be sure to consult with your local vet if you notice anything strange in your dog’s behavior. For example, constant eye-rubbing, bumping into walls, missing its food bowl while eating, etc. could be signs of something serious.

When Are Pugs Full Grown: Curl-Up

Your full-grown Pug will be a devoted companion, a loyal friend, and a house guard when necessary. Because of its small size, it can comfortably live in any size space. 

As long as it is provided with a lot of love and affection, good nutrition, and regular vet care, it will be an absolutely happy camper!

If any health issues arise, please do not hesitate to pay a visit to your animal health practitioner. After all, you want to make sure you enjoy many years with your beloved pup, right? And remember: wet kisses are the best! You will get plenty from your well-cared-for fur baby, guaranteed!

Happy bonding!

stuart and his dog

Family Dog Expert Author

Hi there! I’m Stuart, a devoted dog lover and family dog expert with over a decade of experience working with our furry companions. My passion for dogs drives me to share my knowledge and expertise, helping families build strong, loving bonds with their four-legged friends. When I’m not writing for SirDoggie, you’ll find me hiking, playing with my beautiful dog, or studying music.