The Pug

Yes — more than people expect for such a small dog. Pugs have a dense double coat (fawns especially) and shed year-round, with heavier seasonal moults. Regular brushing helps, but a Pug home means Pug hair on everything. It's the honest trade-off for all that charm.

Honestly, Pugs are a breed with real health challenges. Their flat faces can cause breathing difficulties, they're prone to eye problems and overheat easily. The two biggest things you can do: buy only from breeders who health-test, and keep your Pug slim. A fit Pug from careful breeding lives a much healthier life than the stereotype suggests.

Exceptionally. Pugs are patient, sturdy, playful and almost comically tolerant, which makes them one of the best small breeds for families. They genuinely enjoy the attention. As always, supervise young children and teach them to respect the dog, but a Pug's easy-going nature does most of the work.

Roughly $1,200–$3,000 from a reputable, health-testing breeder in the US. Be cautious of "rare" colours sold at a premium. Then budget around $1,300–$2,500 a year for food, insurance and vet care — flat-faced breeds cost more to keep healthy than the average dog.

Not for long. Pugs were bred purely for companionship and form intense attachments, so most struggle beyond a few hours alone and can develop separation anxiety. They suit households where someone is around for much of the day — a Pug's idea of hell is an empty house.

It's the flat face. Their compressed airways make snorting, grunting and enthusiastic snoring part of everyday Pug life — most owners find it endearing. But loud, laboured breathing that seems to be a struggle is worth a vet check, as severe cases of airway syndrome sometimes need treatment.