Brug

Because the Brug is a new hybrid breed, the history is not as extensive as established dog breeds. But by looking at the history of the parent dogs, we can get an idea of the characteristics that the Brug will inherit. To begin with, the Pug originated in China, where they were prized by the Emperors and lived in luxury. In the latter part of the 1500s and early 1600s when China began trading with other countries, the first Pugs arrived in Europe with the Dutch traders. The traders called the breed Mopshond, which is still used today. The Pug became a favourite of the royal households throughout Europe. In Holland, the Pug became famous after it saved the life of William, Prince of Orange by giving warning of the approaching Spaniards. As a reward, the Pug became the official dog of the House of Orange. Marie Antoinette had a Pug named Mops, and Josephine Bonaparte had a Pug called Fortune. Queen Victoria had many Pugs and even bred them. Pugs were introduced into the United States of America after the Civil War, and the American Kennel Club recognised the breed in 1885. The history of the Brussels Griffon is the complete opposite to the royal pomp and ceremony enjoyed by the Pug. The Brussels Griffon came from Belgium where they were originally bred to hunt and kill vermin in the city stables. The breed we know today was created from several breeds, namely the Affenpinscher, English Toy Spaniel and – the Pug dog! They had great hunting abilities and over time these cocky little dogs became popular with noblemen and workers. In 1898 the Brussels Griffon found its way to America, and was recognised in 1900 by the AKC. Numbers shrank during the World Wars I and II due to poverty stricken families who could not afford to keep dogs. The breed hung on in England, thanks to devoted English breeders. Although the Brussels Griffon remains a rare breed, they became trendy in the 1950s and again in 1990s after they upstaged Jack Nicholson in the movie ‘As Good as It Gets’. With all this illustrious history behind him, the Brug can afford to carry himself with dignity and self-importance.