Owning a Pug is generally a great idea, but have you ever considered a dog with rare colors that none of your friends or acquaintances have? Surprisingly, it’s possible!
While Pugs commonly come in fawn and black colors, social media has highlighted Pugs in a wide array of colors. So today, you can find Pugs in various hues ranging from merle to pink.
If you’re curious about the different Pug colors and what the kennel clubs have to say about them, continue reading.
Before reading this guide “Rare Pug Colors: What You Need to Know,” check out: Are Pugs in Constant Pain? (Common Problems and How to Tell) (2023) and 10 Best Pug Rescues in the United States! (2023).
Most Common Pug Colors
Apricot
Apricot Pugs possess charming coats with delightful undertones of warm orange. Unlike the standard fawn coloring, the hues of orange in apricot Pugs are more vibrant and intense.
It is worth noting that apricot Pugs often exhibit patches of fawn or white color dispersed throughout their coat rather than being entirely apricot.
Silver
Silver-fawn Pugs are a variation of fawn. These unique Pugs possess a lustrous gray sheen on their coats and are the lightest color within the Pug spectrum. While silver-fawn Pugs are rare, it is interesting that many owners classify them as fawns rather than explicitly identifying them as silver fawns.
Black
While fawn remains the most prevalent color among Pugs, it is essential to note that this breed’s black gene is dominant. Black Pugs boast a luxurious, deep-hued coat with a black muzzle, mask, and ears.
Although black Pugs are generally solid in color, it is not uncommon to come across individuals with small white markings, typically found on their chest.
Fawn
Fawn is undoubtedly the predominant color among Pugs. Describing the fawn coloring can evoke images of a creamy café con leche or a delicately toasted marshmallow. Alternatively, it is tan in color for a more straightforward depiction.
It’s important to note that the muzzle or mask and the ears of fawn Pugs should ideally be as black as possible. If you come across a Pug in a movie or on the street, chances are high it was fawn-colored.
Most Rare Colors of Pugs
Pied
Pied Pugs typically exhibit a balanced combination of black or brown patches and white fur. In addition, it’s not uncommon for pied Pug puppies to have traces of French Bulldog or Boston Terrier ancestry in their lineage.
Chinchilla
Leucistic Pugs, characterized by a rare white chinchilla coloration, result from leucism occurring in black Pugs. Due to the recessive nature of the gene responsible, this particular coloring is quite scarce.
Therefore, it’s essential to exercise caution when encountering individuals who advertise dogs with this coloration — these Pugs may be susceptible to various health issues.
Platinum
These Pugs display a deep and rich shade of grey, surpassing the darkness of fawn silver Pugs but not as dark as purebred Pugs. Unfortunately, those with smut fawn markings are among them, while unscrupulous breeders may falsely label silver Pugs as platinum.
Panda
The name of these Pugs stems from the distinctive markings on their coats. These dogs predominantly exhibit white fur with notable black markings, typically surrounding their eyes and ears.
This combination gives them a charming panda-like appearance, which can have an addition to the presence of one or two blue eyes.
Merle
It is common for these dogs to have a merle Chihuahua in their lineage. They possess a unique coat pattern with mottled coloring reminiscent of Australian Shepherds. This pattern can manifest as a combination of fawn and black or black and white; you can also refer to it as “platinum” or “blue merle.”
Pink
Pink Pugs, also known as albino Pugs, are characterized by a lack of pigmentation. Unfortunately, their unique coloration and coat make them prone to health issues. Their lack of protective pigment leaves them vulnerable to sunburn even during brief outdoor exposure, as they are susceptible to light.
Additionally, pink Pugs are sensitive to atopic dermatitis and have an increased risk of developing blindness as they age. It’s important to note that their fur isn’t genuinely white but consists of fine hairs that appear white when grouped. Moreover, pink Pugs typically exhibit ashen blue eyes.
Brindle
Brindle-colored Pugs make up a mere one percent of the Pug population. This unique coloration is achieved through a blend of black and light markings, resulting in a stripe-like pattern. While fawn is the most common color among Pugs, brindle is the rarest.
Therefore, a brindle Pug showcases a slightly darker appearance than the standard coloration. Conversely, a reverse brindle Pug possesses a black coat with light brown markings instead of the typical soft brown fur.
Trace
These dark lines can be observed on your dog’s back, typically appearing on the scruff of the neck and extending straight to the tail. The thickness and darkness of these lines may vary. Interestingly, these markings are not visible when your Pug is young but become more prominent as they age.
Conversely, a Pug may sometimes have these markings at birth, but they gradually fade as it matures.
Thumbprint
A “thumbprint” on a Pug refers to a dark patch found on the forehead, often shaped like a diamond. This distinctive marking is present from birth and is seldom acquired as the Pug grows older. While the thumbprint may increase in size or intensity as the dog ages, it is rare for it to vanish entirely during your puppy’s growth.
White Paws
White-pawed Pugs represent one of the rarer color variations in the breed. Typically, a Pug with white paws will also exhibit white patches on the chest, body, or face. It is not unusual for dogs to undergo color changes as they age, and in some cases, the black markings may become darker as your Pug grows older.
In addition, during the transition to adulthood, the black mask and ears of the Pug usually darken, while entering the senior years may introduce greying on the face and muzzle.
Standard Color Accepted By Kennel Clubs
If you own a Pug with a non-standard color, you can still register them with the AKC by submitting mail applications and clear photos showcasing the unique coat color. The AKC typically grants registration with the appropriate alternate color or pattern listed.
However, it’s important to note that while Pugs of any color can be registered, colors other than fawn or black are not accepted in AKC conformation events, resulting in disqualification.
In addition, it’s worth mentioning that the AKC, following the Pug Dog Club of America guidelines, used to accept both silver and apricot-fawn colors.
The FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale) and KC (The Kennel Club of the UK) allow for four colors in Pugs: silver, apricot, fawn, and black.
The CKC (Canadian Kennel Club) recognizes three colors: fawn, silver-fawn, and black. However, “fawn” for CKC Pugs encompasses various shades, including light apricot, deep apricot, and reddish gold, expanding the color possibilities further.
Behavioral Characteristics Depending On Colors
There’s a shared curiosity about whether the coat color of a Pug influences specific character traits. However, it’s essential to understand that, like any other breed, the color of a Pug’s coat has no impact on its energy level, personality, behavioral quirks, or any other aspect of its nature.
It is natural for people to assume that color plays a role in these aspects. For instance, someone may believe their black Pug is more energetic than a fawn Pug. However, just as many owners have active fawn Pugs compared to laid-back black Pugs.
Additionally, each Pug has a distinct personality, regardless of their coat color.
Difference In Shedding And Coat
Most Pugs possess a dual-layered coat consisting of an inner and outer layer. However, it’s worth noting that not all black Pugs have this double coat. Black-coated Pugs may have a single coat. As a result, some black Pugs may exhibit less shedding compared to fawn, apricot, or silver Pugs.
Furthermore, the color of your carpeting and furniture can influence the visibility of shedding. For example, shed fur from a black Pug will be more noticeable on light-colored surfaces, while shedding from a fawn Pug will be more visible on dark surfaces.
So, although it is not best to select furniture and flooring solely based on matching your Pug’s coat color, it’s something to factor in when considering the visibility of shedding.
It Would Help If You Avoided Rare Pugs
It’s essential to be aware that breeders specializing in rare Pug colors often engage in highly unethical practices, going beyond the already concerning practices of regular Pug breeders.
For example, pugs have extremely short snouts, known as brachycephalic features, which severely impact their ability to breathe correctly. That affects their quality of life as they struggle to engage in normal dog activities, often requiring survival surgeries.
Breeding Pugs, in general, is considered unethical due to these health issues. However, when rare coat colors are involved, many breeders prioritize profit over the well-being of the dogs.
As a result, they often need to pay more attention to genetic health testing, proper veterinary care, and providing adequate living conditions for the dogs. Additionally, they may be less concerned about ensuring their puppies go to responsible homes since their primary focus is financial gain.
Frequently Asked Questions
The rarest color among Pugs is the elusive and unique color known as “merle.” Merle Pugs exhibit a distinctive coat pattern characterized by patches of diluted color, usually a combination of fawn or silver with mottled black, grey, or blue markings. Merle Pugs are uncommon and can be quite sought after by Pug enthusiasts.
The cost of a Pug can vary based on various factors, including breeder reputation, lineage, location, and demand. However, rare or unique colorations, such as merle or platinum (also known as silver), may be associated with higher prices than more common colors like fawn or black.
Remember that it’s essential to choose a reputable breeder. Prioritize the health and well-being of the dog rather than solely focusing on the color when selecting a Pug.
The Pug itself is not considered a rare breed. It is a popular and well-known breed of dog. However, some rare variations or colorations within the Pug breed are rare. For example, colors like merle or silver/platinum are rare in Pugs.
These variations may be less prevalent in the general Pug population, making them more sought after by some Pug enthusiasts. Additionally, some rare and unique coat patterns, such as brindle, can be found in Pugs. However, the Pug breed as a whole is not considered rare.
The most common color for Pugs is fawn. Fawn-colored Pugs have a light tan or beige coat with variations in shades, ranging from pale cream to a deeper caramel color. Fawn is the most prevalent color in Pugs.
Like any other Pug, the price of a black Pug can vary based on several factors such as location, breeder reputation, lineage, and demand. While black Pugs are not necessarily more expensive solely because of their color, they are popular and sought after by many Pug enthusiasts.
Therefore, the price of a Pug depends on a combination of these factors rather than the specific color of its coat. Consequently, it’s essential to choose a reputable breeder and prioritize the overall health and well-being of the Pug rather than focusing solely on the paint when considering the cost.
Conclusion for “Rare Pug Colors: What You Need to Know”
While owning a Pug with a unique coat color may be appealing, it is essential to approach it cautiously. Rare color variations in Pugs are often associated with unethical breeding practices and potential health issues.
The focus should always be on choosing a reputable breeder who prioritizes the well-being of the dogs. It is essential to remember that a Pug’s coat color does not affect its energy level, personality, or behavior, as each Pug has a distinct personality.
Shedding patterns may vary slightly between colors, but it should not be the primary factor in selecting a Pug. When welcoming a Pug into your home, prioritize their overall health, welfare, and the breeder’s reputation rather than solely focusing on the coat color.
If you find this guide, “Rare Pug Colors: What You Need to Know” helpful, check out:
- 6 Best Brush For Pugs! (2023)
- Where to Find Pug Puppies For Sale For $200? (2023)
- 15 Dogs That Look Like Pugs (With Pictures)! (2023)
Learn more by watching “Pug – Top 10 Facts” down below:
Garrett loves animals and is a huge advocate for all Doodle dog breeds. He owns his own Goldendoodle named Kona. In addition, he volunteers at the Humane Society of Silicon Valley, where he fosters dogs and helps animals. Garrett enjoys writing about Doodles and believes that dogs can teach humans more about how to live than humans can teach a dog.
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