The Vet’s Guide to Pugs: Facts, Care, and Training Tips

Pugs are charming, affectionate, and full of personality, making them one of the most beloved small dog breeds worldwide. Known for their distinctive wrinkled faces, curled tails, and playful nature, Pugs have a long history as companions and are well-suited to both families and individuals.

Background: Pugs originated in ancient China, where they were bred as lap dogs for royalty and nobility. Their compact size, endearing expressions, and easygoing nature made them favourites among Chinese emperors. Eventually, Pugs were brought to Europe in the 16th century by Dutch traders, where they quickly became a favourite of European aristocracy, including Queen Victoria of England. Their long history as companion animals has shaped them into the loyal and loving pets we know today.

Appearance: Pugs are instantly recognisable by their wrinkled, flat faces, large round eyes, and short, muscular bodies. They have a smooth, glossy coat that comes in a variety of colours, including fawn, apricot, silver, and black. One of their most distinctive features is their tightly curled tail, which usually sits high on their back.

Physical Characteristics: As a small breed, Pugs typically weigh between 6-8 kg and stand 25-33 cm tall at the shoulder. Despite their compact size, they have a sturdy and muscular build. Their broad, round heads, deep wrinkles, and large, expressive eyes give them a unique, almost human-like appearance, which adds to their charm. However, their flat-faced (brachycephalic) structure does make them prone to certain health issues, particularly respiratory problems.

Temperament: Pugs are known for their affectionate, friendly, and sometimes comical personalities. They thrive on human companionship and are happiest when they’re by their owner’s side. Pugs are typically good with children, other dogs, and even cats, making them excellent family pets. They love to be the centre of attention and are often described as “clowns” due to their playful and entertaining behaviour. However, they can also be a bit stubborn, which can make training a little challenging.

Activity Level: While Pugs enjoy playtime and short walks, they are generally a low-energy breed. They are perfectly content lounging around the house for most of the day, but they do require regular light exercise to stay fit and prevent obesity. Unlike high-energy breeds, Pugs won’t demand long hours of play, but they appreciate short bursts of activity like indoor games or brief outdoor walks.

Health: Due to their brachycephalic anatomy, Pugs are prone to respiratory issues, including Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), which can make breathing difficult, especially in hot or humid weather. Pugs are also susceptible to eye problems due to their prominent eyes, such as corneal ulcers and dry eye. Additionally, they are prone to obesity, which can exacerbate other health conditions like joint problems, including hip dysplasia and patellar luxation. Regular vet visits and careful monitoring of their diet and weight are essential to maintaining their health.

Lifespan: Pugs typically have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, although with proper care, some Pugs can live even longer. To ensure they live a long, healthy life, it’s important to manage their weight, monitor their breathing, and provide regular veterinary checkups to address any potential health concerns early.

Grooming a Pug is an essential part of keeping them healthy and comfortable. Although their short coat might make them seem low-maintenance, Pugs have specific grooming needs that go beyond simple brushing. Proper grooming includes caring for their coat, skin folds, teeth, ears, and nails to ensure they remain in top shape.

Grooming Requirements: Pugs have a short, double-layered coat that sheds year-round, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes. To manage shedding and keep their coat looking sleek, regular brushing is necessary. Using a soft-bristle brush or a rubber curry brush two to three times a week will help remove loose hair and reduce the amount of fur left around the house. Because their coat is short, Pugs don’t require professional grooming, but routine brushing and cleaning are vital to maintain coat health.

Bathing: Pugs generally don’t need frequent baths—once every three to four weeks is usually sufficient. However, they can have sensitive skin, so it’s important to use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo to avoid irritation. Take special care to thoroughly clean and dry their facial wrinkles after each bath, as moisture trapped in the folds can lead to bacterial infections. If your pug gets dirty between baths, you can spot-clean it with a damp cloth or dog wipes, paying extra attention to the wrinkles.

Dental Care: Due to their small jaws, pugs are prone to dental issues, including tooth decay and gum disease. Regular brushing is crucial to prevent these problems. Use a dog-safe toothbrush and toothpaste at least two to three times a week to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup. Dental chews can be a good supplement to brushing, but they should not replace regular dental care. Additionally, scheduling professional dental cleanings with your veterinarian every 6-12 months will help keep their teeth in top condition.

Clean Ears: Pugs have small, folded ears that can trap dirt, moisture, and wax, leading to ear infections. To prevent this, clean your Pug’s ears once a week using a vet-approved ear cleaner and cotton balls or gauze. Avoid using cotton swabs, as they can damage the ear canal. Always dry their ears after bathing or swimming to prevent moisture buildup.

Nail Trimming: Keeping your Pug’s nails trimmed is essential to their comfort and mobility. Long, overgrown nails can cause pain and even lead to joint issues over time. Aim to trim your Pug’s nails every 3-4 weeks. If your dog is active, their nails may wear down naturally, but it’s still important to check them regularly. Use dog-specific nail clippers and trim carefully to avoid cutting the quick, which can cause bleeding.

Pugs are prone to several health issues, many of which are related to their unique physical characteristics, particularly their flat faces and stocky bodies. Being aware of these common conditions and how to manage them can help ensure your Pug lives a happy, healthy life.

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS): Due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) anatomy, Pugs often experience difficulty breathing, a condition known as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). This can result in snoring, noisy breathing, and even respiratory distress, especially in hot or humid weather. To manage this, it’s essential to avoid over-exertion and keep your Pug cool during warmer months. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to improve airflow.

Eye Problems: Pugs are prone to a range of eye issues due to their large, protruding eyes. Conditions such as corneal ulcers, dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), and entropion (inward turning of the eyelids) are common. Corneal ulcers can occur from scratches or trauma, while dry eye leads to insufficient tear production, causing discomfort and potential vision loss. Regular vet checkups can help catch these problems early, and eye drops or surgery may be needed in more severe cases.

Obesity: Pugs love to eat, and without proper portion control and exercise, they can easily become overweight. Obesity puts additional strain on their joints and exacerbates respiratory issues. To prevent this, monitor their diet carefully and ensure they get regular, moderate exercise. Avoid giving too many treats, and consult your vet about a healthy diet plan that suits your Pug’s lifestyle.

Hip Dysplasia and Patellar Luxation: Like many small breeds, Pugs can suffer from hip dysplasia (malformation of the hip joint) and patellar luxation (dislocation of the kneecap). These conditions can lead to lameness and arthritis, causing pain and mobility issues. Early diagnosis and treatment, such as physical therapy or surgery, can help manage these conditions. Keeping your Pug at a healthy weight is also crucial for reducing the stress on their joints.

Skin Infections: The deep wrinkles on a Pug’s face can trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria, leading to skin fold dermatitis or infections. It’s important to clean and dry the folds regularly to prevent irritation and infection. In some cases, if skin infections become chronic, your vet may recommend medicated wipes or creams to help manage the condition.

Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE): A more serious condition that can affect Pugs is Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE), a rare but fatal inflammatory brain disease. Unfortunately, there is no known cause or cure for PDE, and it usually occurs in younger Pugs. Symptoms include seizures, disorientation, and loss of coordination. While there’s no way to prevent PDE, prompt veterinary attention and supportive care can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life.

By being aware of these common health issues and working closely with your veterinarian, you can take proactive steps to keep your Pug healthy and happy.

Training a Pug can be a rewarding experience, but it often requires patience and consistency due to their independent and sometimes stubborn nature. Pugs are intelligent dogs, but they also have a mind of their own, which can make training a bit of a challenge. However, with the right approach and plenty of positive reinforcement, Pugs can learn basic commands and even some fun tricks.

Start Early and Be Consistent: The best time to begin training your Pug is during puppyhood, as they are more adaptable and eager to learn at a young age. Establishing a consistent routine is crucial, as Pugs thrive when they know what is expected of them. Short, regular training sessions work best with this breed, as Pugs can become easily distracted or bored if sessions are too long.

Positive Reinforcement and Treats: Pugs are incredibly food-motivated, which can be a huge advantage during training. Using treats as incentives is one of the most effective ways to keep your Pug engaged and willing to learn. Reward your Pug with a small, healthy treat every time they follow a command correctly. Positive reinforcement—such as praise, petting, and treats—will encourage your Pug to repeat the behaviour you want to reinforce. Be careful not to overfeed during training sessions, as Pugs are prone to weight gain. Use tiny, low-calorie treats or break larger treats into small pieces.

Crate Training and House Training: Crate training can be particularly helpful for house training a Pug, as it gives them a designated safe space where they feel secure. Pugs can be a bit slow when it comes to house training, so consistency is key. Establish a routine for bathroom breaks, and be sure to reward your Pug immediately after they do their business outside. Crate training can also help manage separation anxiety by creating a positive, calm environment when you’re away from home.

Socialisation and Basic Obedience: Pugs are naturally social dogs, but like all breeds, they need to be properly socialised to ensure they are comfortable around other animals and people. Introduce your Pug to different environments, sounds, and situations while they are young. Enrolling your Pug in puppy classes can be a great way to build their social skills while also reinforcing basic obedience commands like "sit," "stay," and "come." These early experiences can help prevent behavioural problems like fearfulness or aggression later in life.

While Pugs are a relatively low-energy breed, they still need regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight and prevent boredom. Engaging your Pug in fun and mentally stimulating activities will keep them active and happy.

Playing Fetch: Although Pugs may not be as high-energy as some other breeds, they still enjoy a good game of fetch. Use soft toys or small rubber balls that are easy for them to carry. Keep the fetch sessions short and in a safe, enclosed area since Pugs can get tired quickly and may have difficulty breathing if over-exerted, especially in hot weather. Indoor fetch is also a great option if space allows.

Interactive Toys and Puzzles: Pugs are intelligent dogs that enjoy mental stimulation. Puzzle toys that dispense treats or toys that challenge your Pug to figure out how to get a reward can keep them occupied for longer periods. Interactive toys not only keep them mentally engaged but also prevent boredom-related behaviours, such as excessive barking or chewing.

Short Walks: Daily walks are essential for keeping your Pug healthy and maintaining their weight. Aim for two short walks each day, about 15-20 minutes each. Be cautious about exercising your Pug in hot or humid weather, as they can overheat easily due to their flat faces. Walking in the early morning or late evening, when it’s cooler, is ideal.

Tug-of-War and Gentle Play: Pugs love playing tug-of-war, but make sure the game remains gentle to avoid putting too much strain on their small jaws and teeth. Use a soft rope toy and let them win the game from time to time to keep the activity fun and engaging for them.

Training Games: Incorporating training into playtime can also be an effective way to keep your Pug active. Games like “Find the Treat” or teaching them new tricks through short training sessions can engage both their mind and body. Pugs love the interaction and will enjoy the opportunity to show off their skills—especially if there are treats involved!

Keeping your Pug active with a combination of these activities will not only help them stay healthy but will also strengthen the bond between you and your playful companion.

Pugs are affectionate, playful, and generally well-behaved, but like all dogs, they can develop certain behavioural issues if not properly trained or socialised. Most of these issues stem from their strong attachment to their owners, their stubborn streak, and their tendency to become easily bored. Understanding these behaviours and addressing them early on will help ensure a well-adjusted and happy Pug.

Separation Anxiety: Pugs are notorious for developing separation anxiety due to their deep bond with their owners. They thrive on companionship and can become anxious when left alone for long periods. Signs of separation anxiety include excessive barking, destructive behaviour, and house-soiling. To help your Pug adjust, start by leaving them alone for short periods, gradually increasing the time apart. Providing toys that keep them mentally stimulated, like puzzle feeders, can also help ease their anxiety.

Stubbornness: Pugs can be a bit stubborn when it comes to training and following commands. This behaviour is often tied to their independent nature, and it can sometimes make training challenging. The best approach is to remain patient and consistent, using positive reinforcement like treats and praise. Short, fun training sessions that hold your Pug’s attention will help combat this stubbornness.

Excessive Barking: While Pugs aren’t known for being overly vocal, some may develop a habit of barking excessively, particularly when they are bored or anxious. If your Pug is barking out of boredom, it’s important to provide them with enough mental and physical stimulation throughout the day. Toys, interactive games, and regular play sessions can help curb this behaviour. If your Pug is barking out of anxiety, addressing the root cause—whether it’s separation anxiety or fear of certain environments—is key to reducing excessive barking.

Food Guarding: Some Pugs may develop food aggression or guarding behaviours, where they become protective of their food or toys. This can be managed by teaching your Pug to associate humans approaching their food with positive experiences. Start by offering treats while they are eating so they learn that good things happen when people are near their food. Avoid sudden movements or taking food away abruptly, as this can increase guarding behaviour.

Pugs have specific nutritional needs that should be carefully managed throughout their life to ensure they stay healthy and maintain a proper weight. Their love of food combined with a tendency to gain weight easily means that their diet requires careful attention to portion size, ingredients, and feeding frequency.

Nutritional Needs for Adult Pugs: Adult Pugs require a balanced diet that provides the right amount of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients to keep them healthy without leading to weight gain. Since Pugs can be prone to obesity, it’s important to monitor portion sizes and avoid overfeeding. Look for high-quality dog food that lists a protein source, like chicken or fish, as the main ingredient. Ideally, their diet should include lean proteins, omega fatty acids (for coat and skin health), and a mix of vegetables for fibre and vitamins.

Portion Control: Feeding your Pug twice a day, rather than free-feeding, is recommended. The exact portion size will depend on your Pug’s age, weight, and activity level, but typically, an adult Pug will need around ½ to 1 cup of dry dog food per meal, depending on the specific food and your vet’s recommendations. If your Pug is less active, you may need to reduce the amount to avoid weight gain.

Puppy Nutritional Needs: Pug puppies have different nutritional needs from adults as they are growing and need extra nutrients to support their development. Puppy-specific formulas are designed to provide higher levels of protein, calcium, and fats to promote healthy growth and development of bones and muscles.

Feeding Frequency for Puppies: Pug puppies should be fed three to four times a day until they are about six months old, after which you can transition to two meals per day. Small, frequent meals ensure they are receiving enough energy to grow without overwhelming their digestive systems. Be sure to use high-quality puppy food that’s specifically formulated for small breeds to meet their unique needs.

Weight Management and Obesity Prevention: Obesity is a common issue in Pugs due to their love of food and relatively low activity levels. To prevent obesity, it’s important to keep treats to a minimum and ensure that they receive regular, moderate exercise. Using a slow feeder bowl can help prevent your Pug from eating too quickly, which can lead to overeating. Always monitor your Pug’s weight and consult your veterinarian if you notice significant weight gain or if you need help adjusting their diet.

Hydration and Supplements: Pugs should always have access to fresh, clean water, especially after walks or playtime to stay hydrated. Additionally, some Pugs may benefit from supplements like fish oil, which can support joint health and keep their skin and coat in good condition. However, always consult with your veterinarian before introducing any supplements to your Pug’s diet.

By providing a balanced diet and paying attention to their nutritional needs, you can help ensure that your Pug stays healthy and avoids the common health issues associated with obesity and poor nutrition.

Whether you’re already a proud Pug owner or thinking about adding one to your family, we hope this guide has offered useful information about caring for this lovable breed. While it’s a great introduction to understanding Pug care, health, and behaviour, always keep learning from trusted sources as your Pug matures. Connect with other Pug owners, continue expanding your knowledge of their specific needs, and ensure your delightful, wrinkled friend gets the best care and affection throughout their life.

This article was written by Dr Lisa Deering