Lori Haskins Houran 
Pug 

The story of this fascinating breed began over 2, 000 years ago in China. There, little pugs were kept by monks and emperors for one reason: to be pets. That was their work-to sit in the laps of royalty-just as the work of other dogs was to protect sheep or help humans hunt. Today, pugs are still doing the work they were bred for: being the center of attention while sitting in the lap of luxury. Readers will meet pugs such as Joseph, whose favorite treats are ice cream and watermelon. When he’s not enjoying a delicious snack, Joseph travels with his owner to hospitals to cheer up sick patients. A narrative treat for dog lovers, Pug: What a Mug! covers the breed’s history and its relationship to the animal’s current size, physical and mental characteristics, and suitability as a pet.