Known as the ‘Hutch Dog’, this breed is iconic and needs no introduction. Pugs are most commonly described by the Latin phrase ‘multum in parvo’, translating to a lot in a little.’ Their small build cannot justify the amount of love they can share with the family. Pugs are a breed that would be perfect for any kind of family – children or not, other pets or not; it would not matter. The pug will fit in anywhere as they will love everyone in their family. They will constantly be at your heels.
This article delves into the financials that will help you assess if you can support a pug through its lifetime. We will look at the prices for purchasing a pug, the factors involved while buying and the regular maintenance costs.
How Much Does The Pug Cost in India?
You can expect to purchase a Pug between INR 8,000 and INR 40,000. The price of a Pug is different throughout the country, and standard region-wise price ranges are listed below. However, many more factors cause this variance, and the next section will explain them.
| City/State | Price Range (INR) |
|---|---|
| Mumbai | 12,000 - 30,000 |
| Delhi | 10,000 - 29,000 |
| Bangalore | 10,000 - 29,000 |
| Hyderabad | 10,500 - 29,000 |
| Ahmedabad | 9,000 - 25,500 |
| Chennai | 10,000 - 25,000 |
| Kolkata | 10,000 - 28,000 |
| Surat | 9,000 - 25,000 |
| Pune | 10,000 - 28,000 |
| Jaipur | 9,000 - 25,500 |
| Lucknow | 9,000 - 26,000 |
| Kanpur | 8,000 - 24,500 |
| Nagpur | 8,500 - 25,000 |
| Indore | 9,000 - 25,000 |
| Thane | 10,000 - 28,000 |
| Bhopal | 9,000 - 25,000 |
| Vishakhapatnam | 10,000 - 27,000 |
| Patna | 9,000 - 27,000 |
| Vadodara | 10,000 - 28,000 |
| Ghaziabad | 10,000 - 27,000 |
| Ludhiana | 10,000 - 27,000 |
| Agra | 9,000 - 25,000 |
| Nashik | 8,500 - 26,000 |
| Srinagar | 10,000 - 28,000 |
| Allahabad | 9,000 - 27,000 |
| Howrah | 8,500 - 26,000 |
| Ranchi | 8,500 - 26,000 |
| Coimbatore | 10,000 - 28,000 |
| Vijayawada | 10,000 - 27,000 |
| Chandigarh | 10,000 - 28,000 |
| Mysore | 9,000 - 26,000 |
| Gurgaon | 10,000 - 29,000 |
| Bhubaneshwar | 10,000 - 28,000 |
| Noida | 10,000 - 28,000 |
| Kochi | 10,000 - 28,000 |
Factors that influence the Buying Price of a Pug in India
Pug Age: Buying a Puppy vs Adult Dog
Most veterinarians and breeders agree that the best time to bring a puppy home is 8-10 weeks. A puppy got home too early can have behavioural issues in the future; this includes being fearful, anxious, or aggressive. On the other side, with sustained exposure to their littermates, they may develop dominant or submissive behaviours.
You can spend more time with a puppy and train them. Adult dogs come with their old good or bad habits, and it does not mean it’s doomed and can be changed with proper training and nurture.
As a result, purchasing a pup will be more expensive than buying an adult dog. However, adopting an adult dog is possible, making it a much cheaper alternative.
Adopting vs Buying a Pug
Most Pugs found in animal shelters are likely to be abandoned, so they will involve more effort to care for but reap high rewards. A pup from a stranger’s litter would only be the best idea if they followed proper breeding practices for weaning and socializing. These methods are cheaper, but buying from a reputable breeder is the easiest and safest option to get a healthy individual.
Breeder Factor
A good breeder follows standard practices and goes above and beyond showering each pup with individual care. They know the right time to wean the puppies from milk to solid food, socialize at the right time with children, adults, noises, or any situation that a pup is likely to face at their forever home.
Such a nurturing environment is crucial as early-stage behaviours can carry on throughout the dog’s life. Improper handling at an early age can lead to behavioural issues later on. This section explores the possible avenues for purchasing a Pug and analyses which is the best.
Buying a Pug from Puppy Mills
The establishments that breed puppies solely intending to make as much profit as possible are called puppy mills. These breeders will not regard the best breeding practices or care about their health. For example, they might stress the female by breeding too frequently or when she is too old (5-7 years). These will not lead to the best quality pup.
As to how you can determine a good breeder from a puppy mill breeder, the former will be passionate about the pup. They will happily talk about their practices and may even quote anecdotes of the specific individual you are interested in. Puppy mills will offer puppies at a desirable rate, but you will eventually pay the price.
Buying a Pug from Pet Stores
Pet stores are mostly the front sales office for puppy mills. However, there could be a reputed breeder also behind the scenes. The best way to find out is to get the source from the pet stores and investigate for yourself. If there are no breeders, they are brought up in cages which is also not the ideal condition to grow up in.
Buying a Pug from Middlemen or Brokers
Intermediaries are likely to be the most expensive of these options because they charge a 10-12% commission on finding you a reputed breeder and will coordinate the logistics. Intermediaries can be resourceful when you need more time to invest in this process. Even though these guys are tasked with finding a good breeder, you must vet them before moving ahead.
Buying a Pug from Reputable Breeders
As previously stated, this is the best option to find a healthy individual. The next obvious question is how you can find a good breeder. The answer is the lists maintained by dog enthusiasts or any kennel club. A kennel club keeps a registry of all purebred breeders, and the kennel clubs ensure that the pups are carefully and ethically raised.
Finding a reputed breeder continues beyond getting their numbers. We can’t recommend you enough to visit the place physically. It will give you an idea of their practices and beliefs about dogs. You can also witness the behaviour and temperaments of the adults on campus and learn more about the pup you are about to undertake.
Questions to Ask a Breeder
We’ve prepared some must-ask questions for the breeders to vet them thoroughly.
- What kind of environment do you provide for the puppies’ socialization?
- May I meet the parents of the pup?
- Will you be able to take the dog back in if I change my mind?
- Do you maintain the health record of the puppies?
- Is this breed right for me?
- Why did you choose to become a breeder, and what interested you in pugs?
- Are you a licensed breeder?
- Will you provide the pedigree and registration form?
- Can I contact you if I need help settling the puppy at home?
Gender
Price does not distinguish between the male and the female Pug. However, there are quite a bit of personality differences to consider. Males are much more relaxed and affectionate; however, they are more challenging to train. Females are little divas who will act as a protector of the house but are still loving and are easier to train. Choose your pug based on your compatibility with their personality.
Size
The average height for a healthy adult Pug is between 10 and 13 inches, and they weigh around 6-8 kg. Make sure that the sire and dam fit these criteria. The table below will list the healthy weights according to age. The table should help you determine if your puppy is beneficial because the breeders can sell unhealthy puppies at a lesser price.
| Age | Weight (in kg) |
|---|---|
| 1 month | 0.5 - 1 |
| 2 months | 1 - 2 |
| 3 months | 2 - 3 |
| 4 months | 2 - 4 |
| 5 months | 3 - 4.5 |
| 6 months | 3 - 5.5 |
| 7 months | 4 - 5.5 |
| 8 months | 5 - 6.5 |
| 9 months and above | 6 - 8 |
Mixed Breed or Purebred
There is no clear consensus on whether one is better than the other. It won’t be a matter of health, but it will come down to what you expect from a pet. A purebred dog will display all the traditional characteristics of a pug, whereas a mixed breed might have varying behaviours. However, a purebred dog will be more expensive than a mixed breed.
Bloodline
The most expensive bloodline is that of the champion; this line has had an ancestor become a champion in a dog show. This factor should only interest you if you intend on entering your dog in a dog show. In which case, you might want to avoid splurging extra on the champion bloodline.
Coat Colours and Markings
Only two colours are registered for pugs – fawn and black, out of which the most commonly found is the fawn. Black is rarer and is more expensive. However, another colour – brindle- makes it the rarest and most costly.
Location
As most things are, major cities have higher rates than lower-tier cities and towns. Pugs generally thrive better in moderate to colder weather, so that they can be found at lower prices in places with hot and humid weather.
Certification and Warranties
A common term you are bound to find while searching is ‘KCI-certified’. This pup has a long lineage of purebred ancestors and adheres to the dog standard laid out by kennel clubs; it is valuable if you intend to participate in dog shows. If not, it is not mandatory for a household pet.
Yearly Maintenance Cost of Owning a Pug
Once you manage to bring a pup home, the costs don’t end there. Dog ownership is a responsibility, and necessary care has to be provided as and when required. This section will look at some setup costs and explain the regular expenses.
| S. No. | Cost Header | Type | Cost Range (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dog Food | Monthly | 3,000 - 5,000 |
| 2 | Vet Visits | ||
| 2.1 | Vaccination | Yearly | 750 - 1,000 |
| 2.2 | Deworming | Recurring | 350 - 400 |
| 2.3 | Neutering or Spaying | One Time | 5,000 - 10,000 |
| 2.4 | Preventive Medicines | Yearly | |
| 2.5 | Antiseptic Spray | As Required | 200 - 300 |
| 2.6 | Ticks and Flea Powder | As Required | 700 |
| 2.7 | Ear drops | As Required | 150 |
| 2.8 | Eye drops | As Required | 150 |
| 3 | Housing and Confinement Cost | ||
| 3.1 | Crates for puppy | One Time | 3,500 - 7,000 |
| 3.2 | Bed for Dogs | One Time | 1,000 - 3,000 |
| 4 | Accessories | ||
| 4.1 | Collar | One Time | 500 - 600 |
| 4.2 | Leash | One Time | 600 - 1,500 |
| 4.3 | Training Harness | One Time | 600 - 1,000 |
| 5 | Toys | One Time | 300 - 500 |
| 6 | Grooming | ||
| 6.1 | Top-quality Brush | One Time | 300 - 600 |
| 6.2 | Nail clippers | One Time | 300 - 500 |
| 6.3 | Shampoo and Conditioner | As required | 400 |
| 6.4 | Towels | One Time | 300 - 500 |
| 6.5 | Professional Grooming | Per visit | 1,000 - 3,000 |
| 7 | Dog Walker | Monthly | 3,000 - 6,000 |
| 8 | Training and Socialising Class | Per session | 1,000 - 2,000 |
| 9 | Treats | Monthly | 500 |
| 10 | Insurance | Annual | 5,000 - 15,000 |
| 11 | Travel | ||
| 11.1 | Domestic | As required | 4,000 - 5,000 |
| 11.2 | International | As required | 15,000 - 25,000 |
| 12 | Daycare | As required | 250 - 400 |
| 13 | Registration | One Time | 50 - 500 |
| 14 | Miscellaneous | As required | 1,500 |
Dog Food Factor
For any pup, the predominant monthly expense will be that food. Pugs tend towards obesity, and it does not help that they are not built for heavy exercise. Careful consideration of the quality and portion is necessary. A Pug pup requires 110 calories per kg, while an adult only needs 80 calories per kg to meet nutritional requirements.
Home Food vs Purchased food
A readily-available kibble is a good option since it has been designed to meet the dog’s nutritional requirements. Some quality brands in India are Arden Grange, Royal Canin, and Pedigree. Monthly costs to feed your pug should range between INR 3,000 and 5,000.
The other option is to make their meals yourself. Now, you can’t just make an extra portion of your meal and consider the job done. Dogs have specific foods they can and cannot eat, and different nutritional needs to be done. Always discuss with a vet what to feed and how much to feed your pug. This option is cheaper but involves considerable research. After consulting with a vet, you can mix home and commercial food to reduce the monthly food cost.
Portion Size and Daily Frequency
As mentioned, pugs cannot be free-fed. You must establish that you’re the boss and be mindful and consistent in your feeding routine. But you cannot afford to feed them lesser than they need, especially for a puppy’s growing body. A general feeding guideline according to age is listed below. However, it is always better to discuss with your vet as every dog is unique.
| Age | Number of cups | Number of times per day |
|---|---|---|
| 8 - 12 weeks | ¼ - ½ | 4 |
| 3 - 6 months | ¼ - ⅓ | 3 |
| 8 - 12 months | ⅓ - ½ | 2 |
| 12 months and above | ½ | 1-2 |
Vet Factor
Once you bring a dog home, you will become familiar with a vet’s office, especially for a first-time parent. Some basic health needs for your pup are explained in this section, and relevant costs are mentioned.
Vaccination Cost
Just like a human child, pups also need vaccinations to protect themselves from common dog diseases. These runs to the vet will only be in the initial days, and once all the boosters are done, a yearly visit should be sufficient.
The vaccinations might have already started depending on the age when the puppy reaches you. Typically, puppies are ready for vaccinations by the age of 6 weeks. Therefore, most breeders have already started the vaccinations, and you might have to get some boosters done. One source of truth when it comes to vaccinations is the health record that is maintained for each dog. An entry is made every time a vaccination or deworming is done. The general vaccination guideline followed is also mentioned below.
| Age | Vaccine | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 6 weeks | DP vaccine for canine distemper and Parvovirus | INR 750 - 1,500 |
| 6 weeks | Rabies with a booster after 21 days | INR 750 - 1,500 |
| 8 weeks | 5-in-1, or 7-in-1 or 9-in-1 for Adenovirus, Parvovirus, distemper, and Leptospira. Needs a booster after 21 days. | INR 1,000 - 2,000 |
| Annual | DHPP booster | INR 750 - 1,000 |
Neutering or Spaying Surgery Cost
There are many opinions about neutering/spaying, but it’s firmly mandated for all pets, and it is a must unless you are planning to breed or enter a dog show. Neutering in males reduces aggression, the embarrassment of having guests over and your pup humping their leg, and urine marking across the house. Spaying in females avoids painful heat cycles, reduces the chances of your dog escaping, and has a messy menstrual cycle.
The benefits are far too many to ignore. Neutering is generally cheaper than spaying, and the process might cost INR 4,000 – 8,000.
Deworming Cost
Deworming is a standard procedure to remove any parasites in the digestive system. Puppies need to be dewormed every two weeks until three months and continue monthly deworming until six months of age. Beyond that, a deworming every three months should suffice. These are generic guidelines; however, consult a vet for better recommendations for your dog, as deworming dosages depend on the dog’s age and weight.
Deworming, given its frequency, could be an expensive affair if done at the vet’s office every time. You should set aside a cabinet for your dog, stock on deworming meds and practice administering them yourself. It would result in lower expenditure at the vet, leaving you only to fund the meds. These tablets can be priced between INR 350 and 500.
Preventive Medications cost
Pugs are prone to eye problems, and a regular moisturization treatment schedule can help prevent dry eyes. These eye drops can cost between INR 150 and 250. Your dog’s basic emergency medicine kit must be available – antiseptic spray, tick and flea powder, and ear drops- these could collectively be found under INR 1000.
Housing and Confinement Cost
Crates provide security to the Pug, allocate space within the house dedicated to your pup, and help with in-house training. Prolonged periods in the crate will help the puppy control its bowel movements, eventually leading to peeing/pooping when outside. A senior dog can also seek comfort within the crate, so save it through the pug’s life.
A good crate should be available for INR 3,500 – 5,000. Inside the crate, a dog bed installation could be INR 1,500 – 3,000.
Accessories Cost
Collar and leash
Daily short walks have to be an essential part of the routine of an already sedentary pug. Moreover, the pug’s stocky build calls for a good-quality collar. Ensure that the collar or leash provides your pup with comfort and security. Good-quality collars are available for around INR 500 – 1,500.
Training Harness
For maximum security and comfort, a training harness is required, and it’s secured to the body and anchors the leash. This combination is the best option for a pug and could cost around INR 600 – 1,000.
Toys Cost
Pugs would much rather play with you than play with toys themselves. A good tennis ball, a toy to fetch, and some chewable toys should be sufficient. It would cost around INR 300 – 500, and you can always pamper your child with much more.
Grooming Cost
The grooming maintenance for Pugs is relatively minimal, given their short coat. The only concern would be the shedding of hair. Regular brushing using a medium-bristle brush or grooming mitt would help remove loose hairs. A good brush can be around INR 300 – 500. Other grooming tools like toothbrushes, nail clippers, shampoo and conditioner will constitute a one-time cost of INR 1,500 – 2,500.
Pugs don’t need regular baths unless they get into something dirty or develop a smell. Trimming the nails once they get too long also prevents them from getting uncomfortable. You can do it yourself or hire a professional groomer. Each session might cost you around INR 1,000 – 3,000.
Walker Cost
If you have a hectic schedule, you can hire a dog walker to give your pug the much-needed exercise for the day. If you choose a monthly package, it will cost INR 3,000 – 6,000. There are also options to hire by the hour.
Training and Socialising Cost
Pugs have a low attention span and can be challenging to train; if you still face issues with training, a professional dog behaviourist is always available. Charges are per session, costing around INR 1,000 – 2,000 or INR 5,000 – 6,000 per month.
Treats Cost
Training with treat rewards is the norm; however, an extra eye has to be kept on the treats consumed with pugs. As previously stated, these dogs are prone to obesity. Ensure that the treats are measured and controlled. Do not spend more than INR 500 monthly.
Insurance Cost
Pugs are prone to eye, skin and respiratory issues. If something were to happen suddenly, a safety net could be helpful. A worthy plan covering emergency consultations and hospitalizations could cost you between INR 5,000 – 10,000. Apart from that, some insurances also cover theft and third-party liabilities.
Travel Cost
Adult pugs can only be carried in cargo. Vaccination certifications must accompany them. There are many other rules imposed on the carrier. Domestic travel will likely not take you more than INR 20,000. International travel could be limited and much more costly and should be done with the help of professional pet relocators. Exact fares depend on the airline, distance, weight and size of the dog.
Daycare Cost
The breed is known to be very affectionate and will not survive long hours by themselves. It is better to leave them at a daycare centre when no one is home. Daycares take full responsibility, from feeding your dog to walking your dog multiple times a day to allowing your dog to socialize safely. These services cost between INR 250 – 500 on a per-day basis.
Registration Cost
All pets should be registered under the local municipalities. You will have to contact your local municipality to find the details of how it is done in your locality. Some localities have online platforms to facilitate this process. Typically, registration costs should not exceed INR 1,500.
Miscellaneous
Dog bowls, pee and poop cleaners and bags are necessities and regular purchases. Overall, these items can chalk up to INR 1,500.
Hidden and Related Costs of Pug Puppy Ownership
Pugs are sensitive to the way you behave and talk to them. As an owner, what this means for you is to dedicate enough time and effort to cater to their needs adequately. They are also not a breed that can handle harsh punishments. If your initial reaction when your pug does something wrong is to yell at them, that will soon have to change. Only purchase a dog if you have the time and capability to treat them right.
Important Things to Consider Before Buying A Pug
Even this cute dog has some behaviours that might not make them a good fit for you. We will list the most commonly found.
- Like any flat-faced breed, Pugs often struggle to breathe in physically intensive activities. Expect them to be something other than your running partners.
- The hair shedding is excessive. You will have to clean the house regularly and brush the fur.
- They do not do well in hot and humid weather, and the time of the year it is such, they will fare better in an air-conditioned room.
- Pugs eat food rapidly, swallowing a lot of air. It leads to flatulence, so it’s better to be prepared for it.
Benefits of Bringing A Pug Puppy Home
Pugs will love every family member – whether a child, senior or even other animals. It is in their nature to snuggle and spend their lives with you. They are intelligent dogs who are playful and mischievous and can entertain you and your family. They’d make a valuable addition to your family without needing much in return.
FAQs
Can I handle pugs as a first-time dog owner?
These guys are the best first-time dog, as they are low maintenance enough to get you started and are very loving.
Are Pugs lazy?
Yes, they are sedentary dogs and will require minimal exercise.
Can pugs be left alone at home?
Unless they are house-trained, you cannot leave the dog alone. Even if they are, a maximum of 5-8h.
Will pugs be closer to one human?
Yes, they are known to form a special connection with one human within the family.
What do pugs love the most?
Food is always going to be the priority, followed by cuddles.
Summing It Up
These royal dogs are intelligent, eager to please and will love you so much that they forget themselves. There is not much else that we need from our pets. If you don’t think a pug matches you, there are plenty of other breeds out there.