Brug

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Brug is a small dog, cross-bred between two toy pure breeds, the Brussels Griffon and the Pug.

The Pug had long graced the laps of Chinese nobles and royals before it was introduced to Europe in the 16th century by traders of the Dutch East India Company. This flat-faced dog is also known as a lion dog or foo dog, similar to stone statues set outside palaces and monasteries as guardians against evil spirits.

The Brussels Griffon, a Belgian breed, is often identified with two other breeds, the Griffon Beige and Petit Brabancon, that in some countries are considered to be just varieties of that one breed. It is a toy dog with an almost visible air of self-importance and a soft temperament typical to lap dogs that have nothing more required of them than to receive and reciprocate affection.

Color

The has mostly solid colors of fawn, black, and red. Color combinations are beige, or black and red, and black and tan. A black mask may be present.

Coat

The Brug's coat may be smooth or rough, always in a single layer. The smooth coat is short and straight, tight and flat on the skin, with a glossy sheen. The rough coat is longer, dense and wiry, hard to the touch.

Personality

The Brug is small dog with a big personality, evidenced by its self-assured carriage and expectation that everyone it meets is a friend or a fan. It is sociable and outgoing, and will not hesitate to go up to other, much bigger dogs and check them out. This gets it in trouble sometimes, however, as its actions can be interpreted as a dominance challenge. It is very loyal to its owner, and can get very attached to it, such that it becomes jealous of anything that diverts attention from it, be it other people or dogs. For this reason, it may not be suitable for a family. It is also cheerful and energetic, but will get snappish with young children who might unintentionally be rough with it during play. It is sensitive to its owner's moods and surroundings, and can be barky if unnerved or lonely.

Care

The Brug's coat will require brushing to keep it clean and help clear out shed fur. Frequent bathing is not necessary, especially as this may strip the coat of its natural oils and dry out the skin.

Training

The Brug needs to be thoroughly socialized, to lessen emotional dependency and help it get through unusual situations or places. Socialization will also help it be more tolerant of others in a household, such as children and other animals. It responds well to a rewards-based training, although there may be times its stubbornness takes over. Harsh handling is not recommended, as its sensitive personality can be damaged.

Activity

The Brug is an energetic indoor pet, and can quite take care of its activity requirements on its own. Some days, it will like nothing better than to curl up near its owner, or cuddle up for some petting. It is best, however, to regularly take it out for walks and let it explore open spaces, to satisfy its primal urge and keep it stimulated.