While the most common Pug colors are apricot, fawn, and black, you may be surprised to learn the Pug also comes in other fun colors. These coat colors vary from chocolate to very light cream and even white!
However, it is vital to note that some Pug colors are not considered acceptable by various major kennel clubs and standards. Moreover, other colors are said to be associated with genetic disorders.
Thus, to avoid any possible confusion and disappointment, this article will take a closer look at 20 different Pug coat colors, along with their respective pictures and descriptions. Read along to learn more.
How Many Pug Colors Are There?
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), there are two main Pug colors: fawn and black. But these two only scratch the surface of the whole spectrum of Pug color possibilities.
In fact, there are over 20 different Pug colors available out there, including silver, pink, silver fawn, apricot, and chocolate.
Below is a rundown of all of the 20 coat colors in Pugs:
- Fawn
- Black
- Apricot
- Apricot Fawn
- Silver
- Light Cream
- Silver Fawn
- White
- White and Tan
- Chocolate
- Blue
- Blue Fawn
- Merle
- Blue Merle
- Panda or Black and White
- Pink
- Chinchilla
- Black and Tan
- Brindle
- Chocolate and Fawn
All in all, the Pug’s coat can come in a multitude of pigments from its diversified gene pool. This means that any color or pattern you see on a Pug is within the range of what that dog’s ancestors could have produced.
20 Pug Colors
If you are a new canine lover, you might think Pugs exhibit only black, silver, or apricot shades. But the truth is, these dogs display so many colors that it can be hard to keep track of them all.
For easy reference, this section provides a comprehensive review of 20 Pug dog colors, including a picture of each variation. This way, you will be able to identify any Pug color and see what it looks like in real life.
1. Fawn Pug
Whether you are a show ring enthusiast or a new pooch fan, a Pug dog with a fawn coat is probably your first choice among other Pug colors. It is, by far, the most popular color variation, and the reasons for this are clear.
Fawn Pugs are, in the first place, charming. You will notice that they retain black-colored masks and ears, while their body fur is pale tan or a little yellowish in color.
They also have black-smudged backs that add to their cuteness factor, making them look like they have been playing in the mud all day long.
However, the popularity of fawn Pugs cannot be attributed solely to their appearance. It stems from the fact that these canines have long been part of many kennel clubs and competitions.
2. Black Pug
As with many other breeds, the black or K locus is dominant in Pugs. Therefore, it is no wonder that many Pugs have black coats.
Specifically, black Pugs are characterized by their glossy, shiny coat, with a dark intensity that can range from deep ebony to a lighter charcoal shade. Their eyes are also round and large and are set off by their black noses.
Additionally, black Pugs are accepted by many kennel clubs worldwide, including the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), United Kennel Club (UKC), and The Kennel Club of the United Kingdom.
So, if you are searching for a striking pet that can compete in dog shows and turn heads wherever it goes, consider getting yourself a black Pug.
3. Apricot Pug
Compared to fawn-colored Pugs, apricot Pugs boast a warmer hue. Their coats have a rich, reddish-brown tint that often looks as though they’ve been dipped in a bucket of butterscotch syrup.
Another fascinating fact about the apricot Pug is that it typically has a darker mask and tracing than its fawn counterparts. This makes it more appealing to many Pug owners.
However, you should remember that despite their slight differences, fawn and apricot Pugs are considered to be the same color variety by most dog registries in the country.
4. Apricot Fawn Pug
With the perfect mix of fawn color and apricot color, the apricot fawn Pug is a favorite among those who love this flat-faced breed. It has a predominantly orange-brown body with a lighter underbelly and chest.
Pug dogs with this type of shade also have deep brown eyes, dark eye rims, and black muzzles. Further, if you look at them closely, their ears and paw pads are black, too.
Fortunately, the Pug Dog Club of America (PDCA) states that apricot fawn Pugs still fall in the fawn category. Thus, they can be shown in the show ring without any issues.
5. Silver Pug
For those who don’t know, silver Pug dogs are, in fact, a real variety of the Pug breed. These pooches typically sport a deep grayish coat with light tan markings on their limbs, chests, chins, and tummies.
But since silver-colored Pugs do not possess the required black mask or black accents on their snouts, ears, and backs, they often look like a Pug mix, specifically a Frenchie Pug mix.
6. Light Cream Pug
Another fawn color variety that you should check out is light cream Pugs. These dogs have a very pale and soft coat color, which can be any shade of cream from off-white to ivory.
As with standard non-black Pugs, you will see that they also exhibit the same coat pattern of black-colored masks, paws, and ears, accompanied by dark tracings along the back and tail.
Moreover, their eyes are usually mahogany-brown or black, which makes them all the more adorable.
7. Silver Fawn Pug
Up next is a Pug exhibiting a silver fawn color. More specifically, this Pug variety will have a coat color that’s a mix of black and fawn, with a hint of gray or silver tones scattered throughout its body.
Silver fawn Pugs appear to have lighter fur along the chest and belly area, which can sometimes be mistaken for being white in appearance.
Note, however, that it’s actually a very light shade of fawn and does not make these dogs ineligible for registration in major canine clubs.
8. White Pug
If a soft and innocent appearance is a trait you look for in a Pug, meet the White Pug. This little puppy is as gentle and cute as it seems, with its sweet face and light-pigmented fur.
But despite possessing such noteworthy physical traits, white Pugs are not without their flaws.
For instance, the lack of pigment in their hair, which is likely caused by albinism or leucism, makes them more vulnerable to sunburn and skin cancer than other Pug dog colors.
Another fact to consider is that most healthy Pugs are probably mixed-breed Pugs. They may have inherited genes from another dog breed that render them to express white-colored fur.
As a Pug enthusiast, I have been an active member of different Pug groups, and I have seen how a lot of Pug lovers got excited about the white Pug.
In fact, many of them are not really aware that the white Pug has been mixed with other breeds for it to get its white pigmentation.
However, having handled white Pugs myself, they do have the same personality and disposition as the standard-colored Pugs.
Like with other Pugs as well, I give them extra attention when playing outside, not just for their short snouts but also because of their tendency for skin problems.
9. White and Tan Pug
Interestingly, Pug dogs come in pied varieties as well. The white and tan Pug, for one, is a popular pied color combination.
To start, a canine with this fur shade will exhibit a predominantly white coat. However, you will also notice that it has tan spots and markings around its eye, ear, neck, and nose area.
But despite the white and tan Pug’s unusual coloring, the fawn Pug’s distinctive dark mask is still present on its face.
10. Chocolate Pug
While chocolate Pugs have the same wrinkly face and compact build as their other colored counterparts, their shiny brown fur makes them stand out.
These pooches also maintain dark mahogany eyes that match their hair perfectly, enhancing their already endearing appearance.
However, since this type of Pug color is rare, chocolate Pugs may be difficult to find for sale. That said, you should expect the chocolate Pug to be more expensive than other Pug colors.
11. Blue Pug
As a product of multi-generational breeding, the blue Pug is a hybrid canine with a distinctive bluish-gray coloring comparable to a wolf’s fur.
However, given that blue Pugs are not purebreds, their overall appearance can vary greatly. Some appear with a solid bluish tint all over their bodies, while others may display patches of tan on their heads, chests, and legs.
One should be aware, though, that the dilution gene responsible for this uncommon shade can cause certain problems in a Pug. Color dilution alopecia is just one example.
12. Blue Fawn Pug
Compared to the blue-colored Pug, you can anticipate that the blue fawn Pug variety is a bit rarer. This dog has light hues of brown and tan with a hint of grayish-blue in certain areas.
Furthermore, when looking at blue fawn Pugs directly, you’ll see that their large eyes give off a lighter hue than some other Pug colors on this list. Their snouts look brownish as well.
But even though they have these charming features, they are still not eligible for dog shows. So if you want to show your potential Pug off at any events, it may be best to avoid this color option altogether.
13. Merle Pug
A merle Pug is a type of canine that displays a pattern of mottled or marbled coloration in its fur. The merle gene, which hinders melanin production, is thought to be responsible for this splotchy pattern.
However, you should note that the Pug breed generally cannot produce merles, as it does not possess the said gene required for this striking coat pigmentation.
For this reason, crossing a merle Chihuahua or mini Aussie with a standard Pug is the only way to produce such a variant. But even then, the likelihood of any given offspring inheriting the merle gene is still quite small.
14. Blue Merle Pug
For those who love the merle pigmentation of Pugs, the blue merle Pug may well become your next favorite variety. It combines the muted tones of a blue coat with the lighter patches of the merle pattern.
But while this may seem like an amusing mixture, the blue or dilution gene interacting with the merle gene can sometimes lead to various health problems.
Hence, make sure to talk to a breeder about their knowledge of these issues before purchasing a blue merle Pug pup.
15. Panda Pug or Black and White Pug
As its name suggests, the panda Pug is characterized by two colorings: black and white. It has a mainly black coat with white patches on its chest, face, neck, and legs, resembling that of the Boston Terrier breed.
Based on the image above, you’ll also see that panda Pugs often display light brown to chocolate brown-colored eyes. However, do note that it is not uncommon for them to be born with blue eyes as well.
16. Pink Pug
Also known as the albino Pug, the pink Pug is a rare color variety that almost looks like the white Pug but has a pale pink hue. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful colors you could ever see on a dog.
Note, though, that it also has its disadvantages.
Unfortunately, due to their lack of pigment and light-reflective properties, Pugs with pink coats are more susceptible to skin problems.
In addition, these pink-colored canines often have difficulty seeing in dimly lit areas because their eyes do not retain enough melanin. They are prone to hearing issues as well.
This is why, even though their pink noses and blue-colored eyes make them irresistible, pink Pugs have a shorter lifespan compared to other Pugs.
17. Chinchilla Pug
The chinchilla Pug, another type of canine with leucism, experiences a partial loss of pigmentation in its hair or skin. The result of this condition is a white dog that has patches of black fur on its face, head, back, and legs.
But even if chinchilla Pugs are extremely cute, remember that they are not recommended for most people. These dogs suffer from a number of health problems associated with the leucism gene.
So if you encounter someone trying to sell a chinchilla Pug, it is best to stay away from them, as they may be attempting to scam you.
18. Black and Tan Pug
Looking like a miniature Rottie, a black and tan Pug is nothing short of adorable. With a classic Pug face and a coat that’s mostly black with tan markings, this is one canine that’s sure to turn heads.
However, it is important to note that the black and tan Pug is not considered a standard color by any dog club. That said, if you are looking for something unique, this is definitely an option worth considering.
19. Brindle Pug
Up next is the brindle Pug. Unlike other Pug colors on this list, this one has a lot of variation in its coloring.
In fact, instead of having just two coat tints, it has several different shades of brown, cream, fawn, and black mixed together.
But what these brindle markings exactly look like has been the subject of debate.
Some individuals claim that these patterns are like tiger stripes, while others see them as more of an “ink blot” effect. Either way, all can agree that this certain coat color in Pugs is truly one of a kind.
Watch this video of two brindle Pugs playing with a silver fawn Pug:
20. Chocolate and Fawn Pug
Finally, make way for the brown and fawn Pug. This particular coat color variety retains much of its fawn pigmentation but has brown facial markings instead of black.
Most Pugs with this coat color also display dark chocolate noses and eyes, which makes them stand out even more. Further, their lighter smutting along their body adds to their charm.
However, remember that the brown and fawn Pug may not be the same breed as other standard Pugs. Rather, they are likely a cross between a purebred Pug and another breed, such as a Chihuahua or French Bulldog.
Other Physical Features of the Pug
Aside from the many coat colors of Pugs, there are a few other physical features that are unique to this breed. For example, you may have noticed that they usually retain black hairs on their foreheads and ears.
Moreover, you will see that these flat-faced dogs also have large eyes with dark rims around them, accompanied by a black mask on their muzzles. Their backs have a distinctive tracing as well.
Read along to get a better understanding of the other physical features of the Pug.
Smuttiness
Pugs, especially apricot and fawn-colored ones, exhibit a physical characteristic called smuttiness. It refers to the black hairs that act as an overlay on their facial and body fur.
The intensity of these black hairs varies from dog to dog; some have darker blacks than others. However, there is no way for breeders to predict which puppies will inherit more or less smuttiness.
Fortunately, a Pug’s amount of smuttiness is not a disqualifying factor in canine clubs. Still, too much black coloring can be considered a fault and will cause the pooch to lose points in the show ring.
Trace
The back area of a fawn Pug has a mixture of black and tan pigmentation, which is referred to as trace. This dark trace starts from the dog’s neck, runs down its back, and extends to the tail.
When closely examined, the trace on Pugs is actually characterized by black-tipped fur. Each strand appears as if it has been dipped in black ink.
So if you are a new Pug owner and notice that your pet’s back is darker than the rest of its body, don’t be alarmed — this is completely normal.
Thumbprint
If you are wondering about the diamond-shaped mark on your Pug’s wrinkly forehead, it is called a thumbprint. It is another desired trait of Pugs, and many people say it adds to the dog’s unique charm.
However, it is worth noting that the darkness and lightness of this marking can change from one Pug to another. Similarly, in terms of shape and size, the same holds true.
Thus, some Pugs may display a very dark thumbprint while others will have a lighter one. That said, however, the lack of a thumbprint should not be an issue as long as your Pug expresses all other standard features.
Mask
One of the most recognizable features of non-black Pugs is their black facial mask, which extends from just below the eyes to their chins. The shape of this mask can vary from round to oval or even heart-shaped.
But if you are concerned about the possibility of your Pug retaining a very pronounced black mask, don’t worry! According to the breed standards set for Pugs, the darker the mask, the better.
As a Pug breeder for more than five years, most of the fawn Pugs I have produced do have prominent black masks, which have a high demand among Pug enthusiasts. It adds a lot of character to an already comical breed.
Eye and Nose Colors
Even though Pugs can sometimes be born with a set of blue eyes — white and pink dogs — they are more likely to sport dark-pigmented ones, which typically range from deep brown to dark chocolate.
On the other hand, their noses should be black in color, such as the characteristic of the Shih Tzu breed. Otherwise, they risk incurring disqualification at canine shows.
Paws
In most cases, the Pug’s paws exhibit smuttiness or smudging, too. Similar to the features discussed above, the blackness is usually darker at the top of each fur strand and gets lighter toward the bottom.
It should be noted, however, that you can also find some Pug dogs having mitted, white paws. “Mitted” means their feet are partially covered with white hair — giving the impression that they are wearing socks.
But keep in mind that kennel clubs prefer Pugs with smudged paws over those with white ones.
Pug Breed Standards & Disqualifications
As with any purebred dog, Pugs have specific standards for appearance, which are set by The Kennel Club, Pug Dog Club of America, Canadian Kennel Club, American Kennel Club, and other kennel clubs.
But in terms of coloration, the American Kennel Club and Pug Dog Club of America only accept fawn and black Pugs. Their breed standards also mention that they do not recognize any other pigments as Pug-worthy.
Nevertheless, the fawn variety that these kennel clubs recognize accommodates other fawn shades. The acceptable shades range from a light cream to a deep apricot, with a reddish or brownish tinge to their fur.
Meanwhile, The Kennel Club of the UK and Canadian Kennel Club have more flexible standards when it comes to Pug coloration.
The Kennel Club, to be specific, accepts fawn Pugs, apricot Pugs, silver Pugs, and black Pugs. Likewise, the CKC allows for all these colors and includes silver fawn Pugs in its standard.
For this reason, if you are aiming for rare Pug colors — brindle, chocolate, and black and tan Pugs — you should be aware that they cannot compete in the show ring.
Moreover, note that all major kennel clubs state that the black hairs or markings on non-black Pugs, especially on their muzzle, cheeks, forehead, and ears, must be clearly defined.
Otherwise, the dog will not be considered a purebred Pug and will be ineligible for registration.
Do Pug Colors Affect Behavior and Health?
Historically, many have claimed that hair pigment affects the behavior of a Pug. Black Pugs were said to be more aggressive than those with a light coat, for example. However, modern research does not support this claim that hair color or even hair length affects the personality of Pugs.
Unsurprisingly, it is argued that upbringing and training are the most significant factors in determining a canine’s personality.
That said, matter what shade a Pug dog is, it’s best to raise them with love, care, and respect. Socializing them at an early age will also ensure they know how to behave around kids and other animals.
Meanwhile, the effect of coat color on health is an entirely separate matter.
Unfortunately, the lack of recognition by major kennel clubs for white Pugs as well as pink Pugs is due to their inclination toward genetic health issues.
A similar situation applies to merle Pugs. With them inheriting the merle gene from both parents, they can develop deafness and blindness at birth or later in life.
So before buying a Pug dog with a particular coat color, make sure that it has been bred by a reputable breeder and screened for any health problems that might run in its family line.
Do Pug Puppies Change Colors as They Grow?
Pug coat color is genetically determined, so the puppy’s certain hue will likely remain the same as they grow older. However, some Pugs do exhibit color changes before reaching adulthood.
For instance, the black markings or smuttiness of fawn Pug dogs can lighten up or darken over time. A solid black Pug puppy may also suddenly exhibit gray hairs once it has reached seniorhood.
In addition, factors like diet, health issues, and exposure to sunlight can affect a Pug’s coat color. Hence, be sure to keep your pooch healthy and well-fed in order for it to maintain its original shade.
What Color Will My Pug Puppy Be?
Predicting the color of a Pug puppy is a difficult task for even experienced breeders. The reason is that Pugs come in various coat colors, and some Pug puppies will change color as they mature.
That said, some general guidelines can help you determine what color your potential Pug puppy will be.
First, consider the shade of the parents’ coats. If both parents exhibit dark or black hair, then it’s likely that you will get a dark-colored Pug puppy as well.
Meanwhile, mating non-black Pugs with each other, such as apricots and fawns, can result in an array of shades in their offspring, ranging from light cream-colored pups to deep fawns and chocolate ones.
However, when a black Pug is mated to a fawn Pug, there is no guarantee that all the puppies will be dark or light-colored.
That is where DNA testing comes into play. To get a fool-proof prediction of what color your future puppy will be, send samples from both parents to a laboratory for testing before the litter is born.
But as a last resort, you may also want to contact someone who can guide you, like reputable Pug breeders and vets. They can provide information on how to breed particular pairs to produce specific colors of offspring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are All-White Pugs Rare?
Yes, all-white Pugs are extremely rare. The reason behind their rarity is that they are produced less often. This is due to the fact that most all-white pugs are either leucistic or albinos.
That said, it is not desirable to breed white Pugs due to the health issues they may pass on to their litter.
Are There Pink-Colored Pugs?
Yes, pink-colored Pugs do exist. In fact, Milkshake, the “Unicorn Pug,” is the world’s most famous pink-colored Pug. This unique canine is one of approximately 100 such dogs in existence.
But bear in mind that, as with white purebred Pugs, these pups have a condition called albinism.
So while their dark blue eyes, pink-colored snouts, and fab fur look absolutely adorable, they can be prone to vision issues, hearing problems, and sunburns.
What Is the Rarest Pug Color?
Pugs that sport a brindle color are the rarest. Brindle Pugs are born with a coat of black hairs and light-pigmented stripes, which makes them somewhat resemble a tiger.
These markings are similar to those found on other dog breeds with brindle varieties, such as the Boston Terrier, French Bulldog, Great Dane, and Bull Terrier. Surprisingly, breeding brindle Pugs is quite challenging.
Other rare Pug colors are chocolate Pugs, pink Pugs, panda Pugs, and silver fawn Pugs.
What Is the Most Common Pug Color?
The most common Pug colors are fawn and black.
Given that many well-known kennel clubs, including the AKC, recognize only these two colors, it makes sense that these are the ones you’ll find in the majority of Pugs.
Furthermore, you may have heard of apricot Pugs or other colors like silver, silver fawn, and apricot fawn. While some registries technically accept these hues, they are not as common as black and fawn Pugs.
Final Thoughts
Overall, there are many Pug dog colors for you to check out. Whether you like black, fawn, apricot, silver fawn, chocolate, or even pied — there’s a shade for every aspiring Pug owner.
What’s more, some of these colorings are rarer than others. For instance, a panda Pug is an incredibly unique coat color that isn’t seen very often. The same can be said for brindle, chinchilla, and silver Pugs.
However, it is worth noting that not all these rare Pug colors are deemed desirable by major kennel clubs. So, as much as you might want to see them compete in the show ring, it’s unlikely that they will be accepted.
Further, those with pink, white, and merle pigment are prone to genetic issues. Thus, always remember to do thorough research before buying Pugs.
Are you getting a Pug soon? Let us know which Pug color you’re getting by leaving a comment below!
