Multum in parvo ("a lot in a little") fits the Pug to a T.

The Pug is somewhat of an exception in the toy group because it is perhaps the only breed that was descended from the mastiff. Although their exact descendants have been lost through time. The Pug holds many mastiff characteristics. This ancient breed is one of several miniaturized in Asia, where it was a favorite pet of Buddhist monasteries in Tibet centuries ago. In China, the facial wrinkles were an important feature, it was mostly noted as the "prince mark," (vertical wrinkle on Pug’s forehead), which bore a resemblance to the Chinese character for "prince." Pugs probably came to Holland by way of the Dutch East India Trading Company. They became quite popular and were known as the official dog of the House of Orange after one saved the life of Prince William by sounding an alarm at the approach of Spanish soldiers in 1572. By 1790, the Pug could be found in France; Napoleon’s wife, Josephine, used her beloved Pug to carry messages to Napoleon when she was imprisoned. Pugs were first brought to England during the Victorian times and became remarkably popular with the wealthy, replacing the King Charles Spaniel as the favored royal breed.

              Pugs are playful, happy, smart and funny. Pugs are easily trained if you have the time and give the effort to work with them. They are very hyper and love to run. (What I call the NASCAR Doggie 500) They will run circles at very fast speeds. Pugs are great with visitors, children and other pets. They can be stubborn, but the Pug is typically anxious to please. It loves to show-off.

   The Pug does need daily exercise, either in the form of a lively game or a moderate walk on leash. Pugs have a tendency to become overweight if diet and exercise are not monitored. They do not do well in heat or extreme cold and should not be kept outdoors. Pugs tend to shed seasonally but occasional brushing can help. Their wrinkles need regular cleaning and drying to prevent skin infections. The Pug wheezes and snores, this is normal due to their flat faces.