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Japug |
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He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
China -> U.S.A. | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen |
A brief presentation of the Japug |
| The Japug is a hybrid between two parent breeds: the Japanese Spaniel and the Pug. This affectionate little dog is a small breed that tends to like quiet moments with its owner and lots of naps. He's not overly energetic, and although he's very gentle, the Japug tends to dislike interaction with young children. Although not aggressive, he will tend to avoid their loud noises and grasping hands, much preferring the lower voices of older people. Such a gentle, even-tempered personality is ideal for anyone looking for a dog that doesn't require too much work. As far as maintenance is concerned, the Japug sheds moderately and, due to its shorter coat, prefers warmer temperatures. Taking on the appearance of the Pug, the Japug has a short, sturdy body with a squashed nose and small, folded ears. You can most often see the Japanese Spaniel in this hybrid breed's appearance in the facial features, with a happy, squashed smile, round muzzle and large eyes. Because it's easy to train, low on energy and very affectionate, the Japug can be the perfect dog breed for people living in small homes or elderly owners looking for an even-tempered companion. |
History of the Japug |
| Like many other hybrid breeds, the Japug is relatively new and therefore doesn't yet have a very detailed history of origin. Despite this fact, we are able to obtain a great deal of historical information on this dog thanks to its parent breeds: the Japanese Spaniel and the Pug. Information on the Japug's history is very important, as it gives us an idea of why it may have been created and what traits have been passed down to it from its ancestors. |
A little of the Japanese Spaniel |
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| The first dog used in the Japug lineage is the Japanese Spaniel. This flat-faced breed originated in Asia around 2,000 years ago. At first, the Japanese Spaniel was known as the "Imperial Chin" due to its popularity at the Japanese imperial court. He was a favorite to give as a gift to visiting nobles, and in this way eventually made his way to the Western world. In the mid-19th century, after Commodore Matthew Perry had ended Japan's isolation from the rest of the world, he presented a Japanese Chin to President Franklin Pierce. It wasn't long before this toy breed made its way to Europe and the USA, becoming registered with the American Kennel Club in 1888, making it one of the oldest breeds recognized by this group. Today, this breed is used for showing and as a loyal pet. Combining these two small breeds creates a big personality in a small body. Although the Japug may not be the most active dog in the world, it has a big heart with lots of love to give its owner. He makes a wonderful companion for the elderly and would be an excellent choice for anyone looking to buy a dog without having to deal with overly naughty behavior. Overall, the Japug is a gentle, even-tempered, affectionate dog who will happily spend his days cuddled at his owner's feet. | ||
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| Standard of the Japanese Spaniel | ||
A little of the Pug |
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| Let's take a look at the history of the Pug. Although little is known about the Pug's beginnings, it is believed that the breed was first created in China. As a toy-sized dog, the Pug was an excellent companion for royal families as they were portable and adorable to look at. Eventually, the Pug made its way to Holland via some Portuguese traders, most likely around the 16th century. From there, after stealing the hearts of the nobility at the Dutch royal court, the Pug was taken to England in 1689 after the overthrow of James II. Since then, the Pug has remained a fan favorite. Arriving in America, the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1885. Today, Pugs are used as show and companion dogs all over the world. | ||
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| Standard of the Pug |
Appearance of the Japug |
| The Japug is a small dog, weighing no more than 9 kilos, that closely resembles the Pug. Although this breed has a semblance of the Japanese Spaniel captured in its adorable facial features, the overall appearance of this breed resembles the Pug, short and square, with a broken face and puffy eyes. It's important to remember, however, that as a hybrid breed, Japug appearance can vary considerably, even within the same litter. Despite this fact, the typical appearance of this breed consists of a short, flat coat that doesn't shed often, making it an excellent choice for those with mild allergies or who don't want to deal with a lot of dog hair lying around the house. His big eyes are always a very dark brown, and his ears are little triangles that enlarge his already rounded face. His tail is curled over his back in a little spiral, and his facial features always seem a little pretentious, in a comic sort of way. |
Temperament of the Japug |
| If you can imagine the ideal companion to curl up on the sofa or grow old next to you, then you can pretty much imagine what the Japug looks like. He's a very calm, well-behaved dog. He's not very energetic, doesn't bark often and would rather sit on the sofa and watch TV with you than go for a long walk. Although a very gentle dog, the Japug tends to get on better with older children and calm pets. He can become very shy around high energy and dislikes loud noises. Japug is easy to train, and while he's not the smartest dog around, he's smart enough to understand what you need and do it willingly. If you're looking for a loyal, gentle and calm dog to add to your life, the Japug may be the ideal pet for you. |
Needs and activities of the Japug |
| Based on the energy levels of the Pug and Japanese Spaniel, you can expect the Japug to have enough energy for short walks; it won't run in circles around you. This breed has very little energy and will stay fit with just one short, simple walk each day. Training and a good game of fetch in the yard are enough to send this little dog off for a good nap, so if you're someone who doesn't want a dog that wears out a lot, the Japug is the way to go. Bear in mind that while this breed isn't generally ill-mannered or skittish, early socialization and training will always be important when it comes to teaching basic manners, so training is a great way to tire out your dog in a very productive way. |
Maintenance of the Japug |
| The Japug is a very easy dog to care for. Its short, smooth coat doesn't shed often and requires very little brushing to keep it healthy and clean. Although the Japug doesn't have a bad dog smell, it should be bathed every few weeks or when it's particularly dirty, and the folds of its face should be cleaned often. Because this breed can suffer from fold dermatitis, it's important to thoroughly clean the skin on his face, so that no food or other substance can cause the skin to smell. Be sure to clean the Japug's ears often, too. Because they're folded, any extra moisture trapped inside can cause infection and irritation, but, if cleaned often, these problems can be avoided. In addition to brushing and bathing routines, don't forget to trim your dog's nails every few weeks or when they click against the floor. This will keep paws healthy and snag-free. |
English (United Kingdom)