THE PUG. 



BY GEORGE W. FISHER. 



>HE true origin of this peculiar breed of dogs is un- 

 known. Some naturalists believe that the Pug and 

 the Mastiff are closely related. Indeed, the close 

 resemblance between the two breeds gives the theory con- 

 siderable force. Other naturalists infer that a dwarf Mas- 

 tiff may possibly have been mated with a Bulldog, and that 

 they were the parents of the first Pug. The latter theory has 

 certainly a great deal in its favor, for the reason that so many 

 of the Pugs have the rose ear, are undershot, out at elbows, 

 and some have black breasts with white legs and feet, all 

 characteristics of the Bulldog. The latest theory is that the 

 Pug is the result of a cross between the Bulldog and the 

 Japanese Spaniel. To my mind, the Pug shows no evidence 

 of such a cross, either in shape, color, or disposition. The 

 first Pugs were doubtless bred in England, but further than 

 this it is doubtful if the true origin of the breed will ever 

 be known. 



We know that everything, whether animate or inani- 

 mate, is of some particular utility and has some purpose to 

 serve, and so the Pug, whatever his origin, doubtless is here 

 for a purpose. While perhaps he is of no value as a hunter, 

 yet his gentle disposition and good temper render him 

 invaluable as a companion for children and as a pet for the 

 fair sex; indeed, it seems that his special mission is to be a 

 companion to the little ones. His chief delight and pleas- 

 ure is to frolic and romp with them. They may pull, bite, 

 and whip him with impunity, and he never resents their 

 assaults. He has never been known to go mad or to become 

 ill-tempered, as do many other dogs when they grow old. 

 As for cleanliness, he is unequaled. He can repose on silk 



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