Pugs are small, cute, and short-coated, so they do not need constant brushing. They also tend to keep themselves relatively clean. Even so, it is still best to begin simple training during puppyhood. Training early makes life much easier later on.
The Best Time to Train a Pug
If you want your Pug to obey and listen well, training should be established when the dog is about three to six months old. This is considered the best training period. At that age, owners can teach basic behaviors such as toilet training, sit, down, and stand. The dog learns more quickly at this time than later on.
Essential Training Elements
Owners should make sure their commands are clear, neat, and simple. The command words should not be too complicated, and they should not be changed repeatedly, because that only confuses the dog. Using small treats during training can make the Pug more cooperative. Training time should also stay limited. About fifteen minutes per session is usually enough; otherwise the dog gets bored.
The Most Important Skill a Pug Must Learn
Toilet training is one of the most essential lessons for every dog. An owner can prepare a larger shallow tray, line it with plastic, and place several old newspapers on top that already carry the dog's urine scent. Then put the tray in a bathroom or toilet area. A Pug usually wants to eliminate soon after waking up or soon after eating. Whenever you notice those signs, take the dog to the toilet area right away. With patience over a week or two, most Pugs can learn this behavior.
Training Taboos
The biggest mistakes in Pug training are unclear commands, constantly changing cues, and physically attacking the dog when it does not meet the owner's expectations. None of these approaches help. What the owner should do instead is guide the dog correctly so that it understands what behavior is desired.