Dog Talk: The Pug is adorable but can be difficult to take care of

Photo: 123rf.com

Pugs have a rich heritage. Once the pampered companions of Chinese royals, they travelled to Europe in the 1500s. In the Netherlands, a Pug is said to have saved the life of Dutch royal, William the Silent, which meant the little dogs were credited with being brave and loyal as well as appealing.

I had never met Pugs until about a year ago, when our street was graced by a new arrival: Tara, a three-year-old Pug. The new resident introduced herself by striding out, and barking furiously to warn me away from my own gate.