I always thought pugs were nice.

So, you can imagine my shock and horror when our year old, adopted pug began to show signs of fear aggression: lunging at strangers on the street and friends entering our home. I couldn’t believe it. After bringing Barkley home from a rescue in Indiana, it wasn’t long before our adorable little pug began showing these shocking and worrisome behaviors.

I had suggested my boyfriend get a pug in the first place because of their social, playful, outgoing and overall loving disposition.

What a perfect dog, right?

While he was (and is) an absolutely awesome dog alone with my boyfriend and I, it’s when other people enter the picture that things get tricky. And since we’re not hermits, a lot of our lives involve other people. Since we adopted him at a year old, we still don’t know what caused his reactivity issues – whether it was from a crummy puppyhood or he is simply just genetically a little off – we do know that despite his flaws, we love him and made the decision to make his (and our lives) the best we could.

With a combination of training and medication, I feel confident saying the little guy is on his way to a better life. Realize that just because a breed is “supposed” to possess certain characteristics, doesn’t mean they automatically will. Try your best to see your dog for who they are and love them anyway.

Have you ever had a similar experience with a dog in your life?

*Please note: Of course, safety is the most important priority so if the situation is putting anyone in danger, consult your veterinarian and/or dog trainer to determine the best course of action.