Pug Limited Health Guide

   This health guide is provided as educational information only and is not intended
to replace advice and or treatment from your veterinarian.

   Please discuss any health problems or concerns about your pug
with your own veterinarian.

   General Pug Health Information

   In considering your ownership of one of the most wonderful dogs breeds in the world - the pug you must consider their health issues. While pugs tend to be a healthy, and a hearty breed that can easily live into the mid and upper teens, there are some health problems you should be aware of and some health problems that can be prevented to help your pug live the longest, healthiest life possible. This guide will introduce you to some of the common health problems that pugs can develop. Do not use the guide for home diagnosis or treatment. We advise you to get regular veterinary care for your pug. Let's get started with some general health considerations, and then we will break down some specific health problems by type, such as eye problems, skin problems, etc.

   As said before, pugs tend to be a healthy breed. Most likely the number one problem seen by veterinarians is overweight or obese pugs. Pugs will eat till they burst and seem to
always be hungry, even if they are fed several times a day. A recent study by Purina showed that lean dogs live an average of two years longer than overweight dogs and the lean dogs have far fewer health problems. We suggest that you feed your pug a premium puppy dog food until they are 1 year-old after that continue with premium adult dog food. Just feed your pug the proper amount. You can base the correct amount on what your dog looks like, not what the dog food bag suggest or how much the bowl holds. Look at your pug, you should just be able to feel your pug's ribs and be able to see its waist.

   Generally the upkeep of your pug should include paying special attention to your pug's ears and cleaning them regularly with an ear wash. It is time to see your vet if you notice any redness, heavy discharge, odor, or headshaking by your pug. You also need to clean you pug's nose roll and surrounding wrinkles every once in a while, a pug can develop an infection in these areas. You will need to see a vet if this happens. A pug's nails should be kept short by clipping them regularly.

   Pugs have a lot of teeth in a small mouth. It is hard to see all of their teeth, but you
should try to brush them if you can occasionally. Your vet may be able to suggest products to help you keep your pug's teeth healthy. Nyla-bones can help your pug keep the tartar buildup on their teeth from getting out-of-hand. Pugs like the bones as a toy and chew on them constantly.

   Pugs have a hard time breathing because of their short pushed-in face. This is especially a
problem when the pug is exposed to high temperatures and humidity. Your pug must be kept cool and exercised with caution in the summer. Pugs can naturally develop Brachocephalic syndrome, which can involve having pinched nostrils and an elongated soft palate. Your vet will need to examine your pug regularly to see if its nostrils are too tight to let air flow freely to its lungs. If the syndrome develops surgery can correct this problem. A pug may snore excessively or gasp to breathe, this could be a sign that the pug's soft palate, which is located at the back of its mouth, is too long and most likely is in the way. Surgery to help correct this problem is available. Overheating is the biggest weather-related problem with pugs, but pugs should not be exposed for very cold temperatures for long periods of time either. Pugs were bred to be in-home companions.

   Pugs provide wonderful companionship! Pugs are very attentive and trainable. Pugs compete in every category in which they are eligible for at dog shows, including obedience, agility and tracking. There are wonderful training videos and books available and training classes are offered all over the country. Pugs thrive on positive motivational training. Check around for an experienced trainer. You may find one at your nearest major pet store.

   Many people get a female pug with breeding in mind. Or purchase a male pug to attempt their hand at a stud service. Both of these decisions require much thought, research, time and money. Any time a pug is used for breeding, extensive health testing should be done first to ensure no health problems be passed on. If you do breed the female she will require human intervention at the time of the birth of her puppies, because she is not able with her short nose to remove the birthing sack that covers her pups. Without help they will suffocate. If you do not help the mother her or all of the pups could die during this time. Caesarian sections, by your vet, is needed to deliver a pug's puppies quite often. Unwanted pugs are surrendered every day to the Humane societies and other shelters and if you let your pugs reproduce, you are responsible to care for them the rest of their lives if no one buys them. You must also be willing to take any pug puppies back that are no longer wanted by those who bought them from you. Pugs will live healthier, longer lives if they are spayed or neutered. Neutering a male pug is almost a "must" because he will constantly mark his territory until you do, and you do not want your home to smell like urine now do you? We hope this limited guide has been helpful to you!