The pug is an even-tempered breed, exhibiting stability, playfulness, great charm, and dignity, with an outgoing, loving disposition. Pugs are extremely people oriented, exhibiting a willingness to please.  They do need a lot of interaction with their owners or they can be prone to obesity from boredom. Therefore, it is important for Pug owners to make sure their pugs have regular exercise and a healthy diet.

The most agreed upon theory is that the Pug originated in China, dating back to around 700 BC.  They were bred as a companion dog and not intended to be a guardian. They were bred by Chinese royalty and were pampered and spoiled.  Sometimes, as a show of favor they were given to members of the court.

Some interesting antidotal history (not officially verified but worth mentioning)includes an ancient Chinese law whereby only the Emperor was allowed to own a Pug.

He could give a Pug to his own selected friends but otherwise it was punishable by death to have a Pug. True or not most Pugs feel quite highly about themselves and will encourage everyone and anyone to treat them like an Emperor's dog!

When the Dutch started trading with China, the sailors smuggled some of the pugs out and took them home to Europe where being a small dog and natural companion, they quickly became popular. Again, they attached themselves to the nobility.

Another 'story' involves the 'love affair' between Napoleon and Josephine. It seems Josephine came part and parcel with her dearly beloved Pug. Well her Pug did not want to share a pillow with Napoleon and bit him (not a normal Pug trait but hey Napoleon was a tough guy!). Now Napoleon was not known for forgiveness and had killed man and beast for less.

Well the story goes that Josephine made it clear the Pug was there to stay and if she had to choose between the Pug and Napoleon - well, there's the door Napoleon. The Pug and Napoleon worked out a truce.

He conquered most of Europe but not a PUG!

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