Sadie, Lilibet, and Winnie may have had difficult starts, but today their lives are filled with adventures, progress, and plenty of love—proof of what rescue dogs can achieve.
If you’ve spent any time in the Social Media pug community online, you know that the “Puggerton” grumble is legendary. From their perfectly coordinated outfits to their hilarious daily antics, Sadie, Winnie, and Lilibet have captured the hearts of thousands. But behind the glitter and the “cheese” treats is a deep commitment to rescue and a lot of pug-sized personality.
Before we dive into our chat with their human, let’s meet the stars of the show:
Meet the Girls!
Winnie (The Warrior): Winnie was surrendered, adopted, and then surrendered again due to behavioural issues. She had experienced trauma, was reactive with people, and was terrified of children. She was frightened of sudden movements and of new people coming into our home, especially men. Since she has been with us, we have worked hard with a trainer to build her confidence, and her progress over the past year amazes me every day. We will continue to build her confidence and give her all the love, patience, and time that she needs.
Image ©️ The Puggertons
Lilibet (The Wild Child): Lilibet was abandoned at a vet at just six weeks old by a breeder because she had a severe upper respiratory infection. When I adopted her a few weeks later, she was still very sick and was classed as having complex medical needs, along with behavioural issues and hyperactivity. After several months of treatment and lots of love, she recovered from the infection. After many years of training and working with behaviourists and vets, she has improved so much.
Image ©️ The Puggertons
Sadie (The OG): Sadie spent the first four years of her life being used as a caged puppy machine, with a very poor diet and no proper eye care. This neglect left her with rotten teeth and poor vision. After Sadie was surrendered, she was put into foster while she recovered from being spayed. She quickly became a “failed foster,”
Image ©️ The Puggertons
The Interview
1. The Heart of Rescue: You have done such incredible work for the rescue community. How did you first get involved, and what has been the most rewarding part of that journey?
“…I don’t foster now. I do home checks for a pug rescue as a volunteer. Sadie was a failed foster.
I like to adopt pugs with behavioural issues and give them a second chance like Winnie that had been adopted and returned due to aggression and reactivity.”
2. Three’s a Crowd: How would you describe the unique ‘role’ each girl plays in the Puggerton Grumble?
“Sadie is the adorable mother hen of the group; she’s loving, easy-going, and food-obsessed.
Winnie is the loud, mischievous one. She is scared of new people, but once she knows she’s safe, she is very sweet.
Lilibet is the crazy one! She has ADHD and sensory issues. She’s the naughty middle child always causing trouble, but she brings everyone she meets so much joy.”
3. The Secret to the Shot: Your photos and videos are always so iconic. What is your #1 tip for getting three pugs to actually look at the camera?
“I trained them the command ‘Cheese!’ If I say cheese, they look at my phone and get a treat once I’ve taken the photo. For videos, I just record their ‘normal’ behaviour. How they are in my videos is how they are all the time—nothing is ever set up, they’re just full-on comedy gold!”
4. The Pug-Owner Essential: If you were stranded on a desert island and could only bring ONE pug-related product, what would it be?
“Optixcare eye lubricant. It is the most important thing for pug owners as they can commonly get injured eyes that lead to ulcers. I always carry eye lubricant, especially as Sadie already has poor vision from not having proper eye care before she was surrendered to the rescue.”
5. A Word of Wisdom: For someone looking to adopt their first pug, what is the one thing you wish everyone knew?
“When adopting any dog, the one thing I wish everyone knew is the 3-3-3 rule.
It takes:
- 3 days to decompress
- 3 weeks to learn your routine
- 3 months until your rescue finally knows they’re home
They need love, patience, and understanding, and what they give back in return is priceless!”
Want more of the girls? You can follow their journey, see their latest looks, and shop their favourites at www.thepuggertons.co.uk©️ or check out their fun antics on the following Social Media channels.
Sneaky Peek at their Tiktok content – follow them today!!
Life with Lola and Mabel 
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