We’re all at least superficially familiar with the lovable pug breed. This small dog is adorable, charming, and mischievous and is best known for its squished, wrinkly face.
Most standard pugs are either black or fawn, and the fawn pugs typically have black markings on their face and ears. Some pugs are even a nice silver color.
But have you ever heard of a white pug? Are white pugs real? What is a white pug?
We’re here to answer these questions and more and learn all about the mysterious white pug dog.
White Pugs: Are They Purebred Pugs?
The pug breed has been recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a purebred breed since 1885. We can trace the history of pugs way back to ancient China, where the breed lived quite the royal lifestyle under Chinese rulers.
While old photographic records showcased the white pug with various emperors and rulers, it’s impossible to tell exactly where the first white pug came from.
White pugs can certainly be purebred, but they do not meet the standards set by the ACK. For this reason, you won’t see any white pugs competing in AKC-sponsored events. But, we have to keep in mind that there are various kinds of white pugs, and these different kinds have varying backgrounds.
Leucism
Some white pugs are simply very pale-colored fawn pugs. More formally, this occurrence is called leucism. Leucism is nothing more than a defect in the skin that causes the skin to fail to support normal pigmentation.
The result is a lightened color and, thus, a white pug. Pugs who have leucism don’t generally experience any other kind of health issues other than those common in standard pugs. They just have lighter-colored fur.
Albinism
Another cause for white fur in pugs is albinism. Just like humans, some dogs can have this condition. Albinism is often confused with Leucism, as they both impact pigment and cause the lightening of fur color.
While the two are very similar, they cause whitening for different reasons. Albinism is a genetic mutation that prevents pigment creation, while leucism affects the skin.
Read more about albino pugs here: Are Albino Pugs Rare?
Cross-Breeding
There is one exception to white pugs being purebreds, and that is those that are crossbred with other breeds to create a lighter color.
To achieve that white coloring, some pugs are bred with dogs like Boston Terriers or French Bulldogs. Since these two breeds have some similar characteristics, breeders can sometimes get several puppies that look just like white pugs.
Unfortunately, genetics can be very unpredictable in this way, meaning not all of these dogs will look or even act the same.
Are White Pugs Rare?
So, are white pugs rare?
There’s no way to predict whether or not a pug puppy will have leucism or albinism, which makes white pugs rare dogs. Even in the case of crossbreeding, it’s impossible to tell if you will get white pug puppies that truly resemble a purebred pug.
The most common colors of pugs are black, fawn, and silver.
White Pug Puppies: Everything You Need to Know
Before purchasing this dog breed, it’s crucial to learn more about it. White pug puppies can require special care and treatment.
How Much Does a White Pug Cost
Standard pugs typically run anywhere from $600 to $1,500 on average. Very reputable breeders may even charge as much as $3,000 for a puppy, especially if they come from champion bloodlines.
However, white pugs are much rarer than standard pugs, so they tend to be more expensive. While some breeders charge as little as $1,500 for a white pug, others may value them at around $6,000. Albino pugs can be even more expensive than that.
Be mindful that owning an albino pug may also come with additional costs due to medical expenses and specialized needs.
How Big Do White Pugs Get?
White pugs are the same size as standard pugs. They can grow between 10 and 13 inches tall and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. Maintaining a healthy diet with your pug is essential, as they are prone to obesity and can grow heavier than the average weight.
White Pug Temperament
White pugs with light coats, leucism, or albinism will have the same temperament as standard pug colors. These small but mighty pups make great household pets.
While they do need regular exercise like any other dog, pugs are not considered high-energy and enjoy a good snuggle session.
Pugs are very trainable dogs who love to please their masters. They enjoy spending time with people and do best with positive reinforcement, as their feelings are easily hurt. Pugs are often champions, but they’re family-first at heart.
White Pug Health Issues
A purebred white pug is at risk for all of the same health issues of standard pugs, which includes:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Pug Myelopathy
- Skin Infections
- Obesity
- Eye Problems
- Pug Dog Encephalitis
White pugs with leucism do not typically suffer from any additional health complications, but dogs with albinism have a more significant chance of experiencing issues.
Albino dogs have more sensitive skin and have a great chance of developing skin cancer. They also have a higher risk of irreversible eye abnormalities, such as small eyes and irregularities in the iris, lens, and other parts.
Some albino pugs may even be blind from birth.
And finally, a mixed-breed white pug may be at risk for any health complications that come with the other breed. Mixed breeds can be difficult to predict as far as health concerns go.
Final Thoughts About The White Pug
Pugs have a long history of being revered, respected, and royal dogs. But today, they’re super common and popular family pets with easygoing, playful personalities.
A white pug is a rare form of this breed, but it’s just like any other pug. Aside from some additional health concerns, you’ll be just as happy with a white pug as you would with any other color.
