Buy retro pug: Difference from other pugs?
The Retro Pug – like its cousin, the “classic” Pug – is a lovable, happy and somewhat stubborn little dog that quickly takes its favorite people to its heart. The two types of Pugs differ mainly in their physical appearance; Retro Pugs are bred with a longer muzzle, so they can breathe better and are somewhat more athletic than their congeners.
Some animal rights activists believe that “classic” pug breeding borders on torture breeding. Pugs have problems breathing due to their flat, depressed snouts, are not particularly agile due to their short little legs and tend to become overweight quickly. Therefore, there is a kind of counter-movement that wants to breed the breed back to its original state: the Retro Pug.
What is a retro pug?
In every dog breed, there are certain desirable characteristics that are considered typical of the breed and are often visual in nature. However, some of these visual criteria come at the expense of dog health and increase the risk of certain diseases. For example, the Pug often experiences shortness of breath and shortness of breath because of his short muzzle and flat face. In addition, his somewhat stocky stature makes him prone to weight problems, and his large, bulging googly eyes can easily become inflamed. However, this was not always the case: at the beginning of pug breeding, the small dog still had a longer muzzle, was somewhat slimmer and more agile, and his eyes did not protrude as much (“exophthalmos”, which is the technical term for “googly eyes”).
The retro-pug is in principle nothing more than a pug mongrel – in retro-pug breeding, very specific breeds are deliberately crossed in to achieve his original stature and freer airways. The animals are then about three quarters Pug and one quarter Pinscher or Terrier. In this, the Retro Pug differs from the Old German Pug, which is purebred. In the Old German Pug, only Pugs with longer muzzles, longer legs, no “googly eyes” and a more athletic build are specifically mated.
Buying Retro Pugs: Here’s what you should look for
However, a retro Pug is not automatically better or healthier than other Pugs. He is usually less prone to respiratory problems, eye diseases and obesity, but even among retro pug breeders there can be black sheep. Conversely, there are reputable pug breeders who take care to ensure that their dogs are not overbred and can live long, healthy, happy lives. Take a look at the dog breeder of your choice and his animals in person during a visit, so you can get an idea. Do the dogs have enough space, places to retreat, and are they integrated into the household in a way that allows them to get used to all sorts of everyday noises? Is their home clean and well-maintained? These are already good signs. Healthy Pugs – whether Retro Pug, Old German Pug or “classic” Pug – don’t pant at the slightest exertion, are playful, curious and happy. Moreover, if you listen to your gut feeling before buying a Retro Pug, nothing can go wrong.
