Pugs are an ancient breed, dating back to the Shang Dynasty of China in the years 1766 through 1122 BC. They were kept as pets by Tibetan monks before being exported to Japan, and then later to Europe. In the late sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries, sailors of the Dutch East India Trading Company brought Pugs back with them to Holland. Shortly thereafter, the Pug became the official dog of the Dutch Royal family. Pugs soon became popular throughout Europe, particularly in England, Spain, Germany and France. Pugs accompanied William and Mary to the British throne in 1688 and Napoleon is believed to have used a Pug to deliver messages to his wife when she was imprisoned.
Pugs became very popular in 19th century England as they were a favorite of Queen Victoria, who bred them whilst keeping them as pets. Pugs of that time were of the fawn or apricot color, but darker shades were introduced when an English aristocrat brought some back from China. Standards for the breed were established in the 1880's and the Pug was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1991.
