It may be hard to imagine, but pugs have been around for a very long time. And historically they have always been a very popular breed of dog. Over 2000 years ago, pugs were bred as lap dogs by the Emperors of ancient China, with the imperial court favoring the dog for its small size and flat face. For a species that has existed for millennia, it makes sense that there would be a few different breeds frolicking on the face of the earth. In fact, there are currently three breeds of pug in existence:
The Fawn Pug
Fawn pugs are probably the most universally recognized species of the little dog. But they themselves also come into a selection of different colors. The traditional Fawn is the pug that we most commonly associate with the breed and they sport the typical yellowish-white fur. Next, we have the Apricot Fawn which can often be found with a short coat of a goldish-orange hue. And finally, the Silver Fawn, which is categorized by its silvery-gray coloring.
The Brindle Pug
Brindle pugs are often regarded as the most visually striking of the pug family. This is because their fur mixes together light and dark tones, creating a marbled effect not found on any other pug breed. It is unclear what causes this particular coloring, although specialists believe that it stems from another breed being introduced into the bloodline. Like their Fawn cousins, Brindle Pugs have existed for a very long time. In fact, artworks from the 18th Century have depicted the dogs among the ranks of European nobility.
The Black Pug
Finally, we have the breed we all came here to see, the Black Pug. Known for their striking obsidian coat, these little dogs have become very popular among pug enthusiasts. However, this adoration was not always the case. Interestingly, Black Pugs were often overlooked in favor of their Fawn cousins. With many believing that their black fur was a form of birth defect. However, their popularity began to soar when Queen Victoria began adopting the little black dogs. Demonstrating that they were just as loveable and loyal as any pug breed.