The AKC breed standard tells us that the 'ideal' Pug will weigh between 14 and 18 pounds (6.35 and 8.16 kg) for both males and females.
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It should be noted that this was not always the case; the AKC's
previous weight standard separated the genders with the preferred weight for males being 13 to 20 pounds (5.89 to 9.07 kg) and females being between 13 and 18 pounds (6-8 kg) if female.
The FCI
(Fédération Cynologique Internationale), CKC
(Canadian Kennel Club) and KC
lists ideal weight to be 6.3 kg to 8.1 kg (13.88 to 17.85 lbs.) for both genders. Along with this, they are sure to note that the Pug 'should be hard of muscle but substance must not be confused with overweight'.
How Much Pugs Really Weigh
Despite the 'ideal' standards, a pet Pug can weigh more than this and not be considered overweight. While a healthy weight is determined by several factors including age and individual body structure, a Pug may be up to 21 pounds (9.52 kg) when fully grown and not have a weight problem.
With this said, once a Pug tops 22 pounds (9.97 kg) and more, it will be time to evaluate a possible weight issue.
If you notice that your Pug is over expected weight during the second half of the first year of
growth- even before he reaches his final size - you may need to evaluate things at that time.
Here is a general guideline:
Puppies should never be put on a diet. It is expected for them to have a round appearance and extra fat helps them maintain proper sugar levels and regulate body temperature. There will be starts and stops, but generally you want to see an increase over that first year. 8 week old pups
will be between 2 and 4 pounds (.90 and 1.81 kg), and gaining a bit each day. By the 6 month mark,
a Pug will be between 7 and 12 pounds (3.17 and 5.44 kg). If a Pug is much heavier than this, he/she should be checked by the veterinarian for possible weight issues.
At just around 9 months old, growth will slow down. A Pug will still gain a few more pounds over the course of the next 3 to 4 months, but is very close to his/her final weight. By the 1 year mark, a Pug should be at his final adult weight, give or take 1 or 2 lbs. (.45 or .90 kg). If a Pug continues to gain after this age, this is a red flag that he/she is becoming overweight.