Training a Pug: what works and what to expect

Pugs are eager to please when food is involved and far less keen when it is not. Keep lessons to a few minutes, use tiny, low-calorie treats or pieces of their daily kibble, and train before meals when they are motivated. Harsh corrections tend to make a Pug sulk and stop cooperating.

House training can be slow, especially in cold or wet weather when a Pug would rather stay indoors. Take the puppy out every two hours, after sleep and after meals, and reward success right away. Teaching a reliable settle on a bed is useful too, since Pugs follow their owners everywhere and can become anxious when left alone for long.