Pug Behavior: Understanding the Stubborn, Social, Food-Motivated Little Dog

Pugs are often described as stubborn. Sometimes they are. Sometimes the reward simply is not competitive with whatever they would rather be doing.

Food motivation is a superpower

Many pugs work enthusiastically for small food rewards. Use that motivation for training, but count rewards as part of the day’s food.

Short sessions win

Five useful minutes can beat twenty repetitive ones. End while the dog is still engaged.

Attention-seeking behavior

Pugs are social dogs and often want to be involved in everything. Reward calm behavior too—not only barking, pawing, or demanding attention.

“Stubborn” can mean confused

If a dog repeatedly fails a cue, make the task easier and check whether you have actually taught the behavior in that environment.

Barking

Look at what happens immediately before the barking and what the dog gets afterward. Doorbells, people outside, boredom, excitement, and learned attention patterns can all contribute.

Enrichment helps

A dog that gets opportunities to sniff, search, train, and interact has more appropriate outlets for energy and curiosity.