National Pug Day Date in the current year: October 15, 2024

The pug is a dog breed that originated in China hundreds of years ago. Its most distinctive features are a wrinkly, short snout, short legs, and a curled tail. Pugs are among the most popular companion dogs due to their small size and sociable, gentle, and charming personality.

The history of the breed dates back to at least the Song dynasty of China (960–1279 AD). Pugs were bred as companion dogs for the royal family; they were guarded by soldiers and kept in luxury. From China, pugs spread to other parts of Asia and then to the Netherlands.

In 1572, a pug named Pompey saved the life of William the Silent, Prince of Orange, by alerting him to the approach of assassins. After that, pugs were reportedly made the official breed of the House of Orange. However, some historians think that Pompey might have been a different breed, most likely a Dutch spaniel.

Pugs eventually became popular in other European countries including England, Italy, Spain, and Russia. They continued to be kept as companion dogs, and were also employed as guard dogs and military tracking dogs. In the 19th century, pugs were brought to the United States and quickly became popular there. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885.

The popularity of pugs hasn’t dwindled since then. Pugs are considered a great breed for families with children because they are non-aggressive, playful, affectionate, willing to please their owners, and sturdy enough to properly play with children without the risk of getting hurt.

National Pug Day is one of the many animal holidays founded by Colleen Paige, a pet lifestyle expert, animal rescuer and author. Its “sister holidays” include National Dog Day, National Cat Day, National Puppy Day, National Black Dog Day, National Pet Day, National Horse Protection Day, National Wildlife Day, and National Beach Day.

National Pug Day was created not only to celebrate the cuteness of pugs and their ability to make us all smile, but also to raise awareness of the abandonment of pugs. Unfortunately, some pug owners end up abandoning their dogs due to the financial strain of vet bills (as a brachycephalic breed, pugs are prone to certain health issues) or simply because they decide they cannot commit to taking care of a pet.

The best way to celebrate National Pug Day is to adopt a cute pug from a pug rescue. Of course, you should do this only if you are 100% sure that you can give your dog the care it needs. If you cannot adopt, you can donate to or volunteer at a pug rescue near you – we’re sure it will be much appreciated!

If you already own an adorable pug, buy your pet a treat or a new toy, and share photos and videos of your pug on social media with the hashtag #NationalPugDay to spread the word about the holiday. National Pug Day also is a great day to watch movies featuring pugs such as The Adventures of Milo and Otis, The Campaign, Breakin’ All the Rules, The Big Wedding, Men in Black, Kingsman: The Secret Service, Patrick the Pug, or The Secret Life of Pets.