Are Pug Puppies Hard to Train?

Pugs have a reputation for being stubborn. They’re also known to be highly intelligent dogs.

But are Pug puppies hard to train?

This is a question that many pet owners would ask before buying or adopting a Pug pup. Dog training is essential to avoid unruly behavior. Knowing whether they are easy to train can also help you know if you can handle them.

Here are things you need to know about Pug pups with regards to dog training.

Training and a Dog’s Intelligence

A dog’s intelligence doesn’t always say how well they will receive training. In truth, lots of smarter breeds are hard to train. The more intelligent they are, the more they lose focus.

This means that even when your Pug isn’t the smartest of the bunch, they can’t be trained. The main reason why people think they are hard to train is due to their stubbornness. This comes down to their temperament instead of their intelligence.

But a dog’s intelligence can be a factor when you’re training a dog. Smarter dogs can learn commands and tricks easier. You can teach your Pug and they’ll be able to learn faster.

 

Are Pugs Hard to Train?

It all comes down to this question: are Pugs really hard to train?

If you’re a new dog owner, it’s a tougher task. Pugs are stubborn and will basically do whatever they want. You can find it problematic if you don’t know the tricks on Pug training.

More experienced owners find it easier to train any breed of dog, even a Pug.

Here are some tricks that are used by experienced owners to train their Pugs:

1. Reward your Pug.

Positive training reinforcement works wonders. This works especially if you’re dealing with a stubborn Pug pup. Pugs love their treats. Use this to your advantage.

Always have a treat ready. Reward them with a little treat once they get a command right.

Besides treats, your dog will love praises. Head and belly rubs are also seen as the ultimate reward, so you can use those as well.

In general, keep every training positive.

But remember that your Pug is also prone to obesity. That’s why you shouldn’t give them a treat without any action. Don’t give in to temptation and give them a treat just because they look adorable.

2. Enforce your authority.

Your Pug doesn’t really follow pack hierarchy. They are independent little creatures and will do what they want to. But this doesn’t mean they will not respect your authority and leadership.

Act as the leader of the pack or the master of the house. Train them with a firm hand. Make commands firm, especially when you’re telling them “No.”

But never be too firm to the point of aggressiveness. Pugs aren’t aggressive, but they can react negatively to aggressive tones and behaviors. Be firm but remain gentle.

3. Teach them how to focus.

Another problem with Pugs is that they can easily get distracted. This gets in the way of training. Use the reward system to teach them how to focus.

Use keywords like “Watch” or “Focus” when training them. Hold their gaze while touching the tip of their nose and then bring your finger up to your own. Give them a treat when they look up at you.

Repeat this for a few times every day until they learn the command. You can use this anytime they get distracted with basic obedience training.

4. Start when they are young.

Pug puppies are easier to train than adult dogs. They are more receptive when they are younger. They can absorb commands from training much faster.

Train your Pug for the first six months. Start with potty training and obedience training.

Additionally, you can avoid any unruly behavior as they grow up. Their puppyhood is the time when their habits are shaped. Ensure you lead them to the right track to benefit you as well.

But when training a Pug until they are adults is inevitable, don’t lose hope. You can still change their ways with more patience and love.

5. Set rules.

When doing obedience training, set your rules.

Set boundaries around the house. For example, they aren’t allowed on the couch or sofa. Basic rules may also include no biting and no chewing on stuff around the house.

Remember these rules when training your dog and be consistent. They will get confused if you train them not to sit on the couch one day and then bring them in the next day.

Conclusion

Are Pug puppies hard to train? They can be, especially when you’ve got a stubborn one. But it doesn’t mean they can’t be trained. Make sure your training will be a positive and enjoyable experience for your pup so it will look forward to your sessions.