Owner guide - Pugs tend to have sensitive skin

Pugs tend to have sensitive skin and may be prone to mange or other skin problems.

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Owner guide - Pugs are prone to certain eye disorders

Pugs are prone to certain eye disorders, including entropion (curling inward of the lower eyelid and eyelashes which causes irritation and can lead to impaired vision). This is why it’s important to have their eyes checked regularly from the time they are puppies. They might require entropian surgery, which is done at a younger age.

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Owner guide - Pug is prone to the genetic disorders hemivertebrae

Pug is prone to the genetic disorders hemivertebrae, which can affect the spine, and luxating patella, which affects the knees. Although genetic, luxating patella can be aggravated if your pug is overweight.

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Owner guide - Pugs are prone to respiratory problems and heat stroke

Due to their short snouts, pugs are prone to respiratory problems and heat stroke. They are highly sensitive to extreme weather. Never let them overheat or leave them outside in the cold. Moderate weather is best for their outdoor activities.

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Owner guide - Pugs are “people” dogs and thrive on human attention

Pugs are “people” dogs and thrive on human attention. Make sure you take time out of your day (even if you’re extremely busy) to show your Pug some love.

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Owner guide - Groom your Pug

Wipe between the folds of skin on your pug's face gently with a warm washcloth, Q-tips or cotton balls. Check the ears regularly and wipe out with a dry cotton ball or slightly moistened with a special ear cleaner for dogs. Bathe when necessary; too frequently dries out their skin. Trim your pug's nails regularly. Pug nails grow fast!

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Owner guide - Brush regularly to keep your Pug's coat and skin healthy

Brush regularly to keep your Pug's coat and skin healthy, even though it's a short coat. A steel bristle brush is best for this type of coat.

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Owner guide - Make sure your pug gets regular exercise

Make sure your pug gets regular exercise, but don’t overdo it; a short daily walk will do. Pugs sleep more than the average dog, about 14 hours a day, which is OK.

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Owner guide - Feed your Pug

Feed your Pug a quality dry dog food that lists meat as the first ingredient and contains the proper balance of protein, fats, carbs, fiber, vitamins and minerals. You can mix it with canned or moist if you like, but dry is best for the teeth, or you can feed a homemade diet. Avoid table scraps and extra treats because Pugs are prone to obesity.

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Owner guide - Clean your Pug's teeth

Have your Pug's teeth cleaned professionally on a regular basis, as the breed is prone to tooth decay. Ask a trained professional or veterinarian for a recommended schedule. You might also consider brushing your Pug's teeth. Preventative dental maintenance can include tartar control biscuits and safe, tartar-control chew toys.

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Owner guide - Take your Pug for regular checkups beginning at puppy

Take your Pug for regular checkups beginning at puppy. You can also perform a monthly home exam of the skin, eyes, ears, nose, teeth and gums. Stay current on vaccinations, flea and heartworm preventative.

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