Fastest Pug Alive? Sprinter Gabby Thomas Claims Her Rescue Dog Rico Outran the Competition at the Olympics
The 2024 Paris Olympics provided a stage for American track and field star Gabby Thomas to shine, and she did not disappoint. The 27-year-old sprinter won the gold medal in the 200-meter event, cementing her status as one of the fastest athletes in the world.
Thomas’ stunning performance was made even more remarkable by the fact that she shares her life with a very special canine companion – her rescue Pug, Rico. While Pugs are not typically known for their speed, Thomas claims Rico is the exception to the rule.
“Rico is probably the fastest Pug in the country. I’m gonna go ahead and claim it,” Thomas said with a laugh. “Pugs don’t run, but my Pug does.”
During Thomas’ rigorous training for the Olympics, Rico would often join her on the track, sprinting alongside his athletic owner. “He genuinely enjoys running with me,” Thomas explained. “Rico is not like other Pugs – he’s a real athlete in his own right.”
Thomas’ remarkable achievement in Paris, combined with the support and enthusiasm of her four-legged friend, is sure to make both her and Rico the pride of the United States. The remarkable duo have proven that with enough heart and determination, even a Pug can chase Olympic dreams.
Rico Runs Faster Than Gold-Medalist Dog Mom
Rico is not only a Pug who sprints, but Gabby has admitted that he runs faster than she does. After winning the Gold Medal, it is safe to say that Gabby Thomas is currently one of the fastest women in the country. Not many people can claim to outrun her, but surprisingly, her Pug, a breed known for its laziness, can.
This makes one wonder, how fast do Pugs run? The Pug owner says that Rico has longer legs, which might be a factor in making Rico such an excellent runner despite being a Pug.
Rico and his Gold-Medalist mom share a special bond, which Nulo Pet Food highlighted in their “Fuel Incredible” campaign. This campaign showcased the “symbiotic relationship between the wellness of athletes and their pets,” as Pet Age reports. Additionally, it aimed to make pet parents understand the importance of the health and nutrition of their pets and how it allows their furry animals to be a proactive part of their lives.
This Pug’s story has certainly raised a big question, are Pugs very active? Let’s explore this.
Are Pugs Active Dogs?
When people think of Pugs, they generally think of them as “couch potatoes.” No one really wonders, “Are Pugs lazy or active?” because it has become a universally known fact that they are one of the laziest breeds.
However, Rico’s story urges me to dive deeper into the activity levels of the Pug breed. A Reddit owner, @Hot_Wolverine8301, also owns an active pug. They say, “My pug is very fit, according to his trainer and vet. They’ve mentioned that he’s the healthiest pug they’ve seen. He’s 3 years old, 18 lbs, and extremely active.”
In response to this, other Pug owners shared their own experiences. A pet parent of two Pugs, @MutedBrilliant1593, wrote, “My Brutus is large, lean, and toned naturally. He’s pretty much indestructible. His brother Nibbler, however, is a fat potato with short toothpick legs that gets winded on normal walks if it’s even slightly warm out. Pugs vary.”
How Active Are Pugs?
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), “Given the opportunity, a Pug will happily spend much of the day snuggling on the sofa, which, combined with the breed’s fondness for eating, makes obesity a real possibility. But the Pug is playful, sturdy, and lively, too.” So, the AKC doesn’t describe Pugs as a lethargic dog and instead has medium energy levels.
From the accounts of Pug parents and the AKC, it is evident that the stereotype that Pugs are lazy dogs is not accurate. They are, in fact, playful and lively dogs. Why do then some Pugs are so lazy?
As AKC has described, Pugs like to eat a lot, which can make them obese. Thus, obesity seems to be a major cause of making Pugs inactive. Moreover, Pugs are renowned for their love of sleep, often clocking in around 14 hours a day.
However, they adore human companionship and will happily accompany you on walks, regardless of the weather. Beneath their calm exterior lies a curious and playful spirit. When not snoozing, Pugs are often exploring their surroundings, seeking out new adventures and mischief.
Therefore, although most Pugs are not highly energetic dogs, they are not inherently lazy too. Dogs, like humans, have individual differences due to genetics or lifestyle. So, while some Pugs are muscly and pretty active, others are chubby and prefer sleeping all day.
Read This Next
