Activity:  Pugs are generally very active little dogs and they love their daily exercise Regular walks are essential to keep them fit and prevent them from getting overweight. Nevertheless walks have to be adjusted to the time of the year and weather conditions (see more under heat).

Bathing:  Because of the breed's short neat coat there is no need to give your Pug a regular bath. In case of invasion with external parasites or unpleasant odor a medicated shampoo or a special mild shampoo for dogs should be used. The dog should be put into the bathtub. Before you start make sure the dog stands on a non slippery surface and put some cotton wool into both ears to prevent water from getting in. Soak the dog with warm water thoroughly and check the temperature regularly. Shampoo the dog but be very careful not to get it into the face especially the eyes. Rinse carefully till the water is completely clear. Allow the dog to have a good shake to get out excessive water. Dry either with towel or a hairdryer, brush whilst drying. Pug coats because of their dense undercoat can store an amazing amount of water and it can take considerable time to get them dry. Make sure that the dog is completely dry before you let him into the cold.

Cars: Generally Pugs love to travel in cars and even puppies get used to it very quickly. No dog should be kept loose in a car. The safest place is a big enough cage or airy pet carrier. Never ever leave your Pug in the car! Cars heat up very quickly and can be a deadly trap!

Diet: Every dog should be fed a healthy balanced diet. It is personal preference if your Pug is fed on a home cooked diet or commercial dog food. Without any doubt it is more difficult to get the right balance of essential ingredients in your own cooking. Formulated diets contain the right amount of protein, carbohydrates, fats, minerals, vitamins and trace elements. With a complete food there is normally no need for supplements.

Eyes:  The Pugs eyes are unique and are mainly responsible for the breeds expression and irresistible appearance. Compared with other breeds Pug eyes are big and slightly more prominent. Because of the breeds short muzzle Pugs are lacking the natural "bumper" and are therefore more vulnerable. To keep your Pugs eyes healthy it is absolutely essential to check them regularly. Check for abnormal redness, inflammation, discharge or even signs of a half or completely closed eye. If you are not familiar with the Pug's eyes consult your vet (find more under ulcer).

Feeding:  Generally a healthy Pug is a greedy Pug (exceptions prove the rule) and are not difficult eaters. Keep regularity in feeding. Try to feed an adult Pug twice a day with a small breakfast and the main meal in the afternoon or early evening. Many Pugs prefer to eat from a flat dish.

Grooming:  Pugs are very easy to groom. Regular brushing with a natural bristle brush keeps the coat neat and shiny and helps to keep dead hair off your carpet and clothes. Keep your Pugs toenails always nice and short otherwise they might cause trouble. Pugs are normally not particularly keen to have their nails trimmed and it might need a bit of persuasion. If you are not happy to do it yourself it ask for professional. advice. Many veterinary surgeries offer nail cutting for a moderate fee.

Heat: A Pug should be "multum in parvum" which means a lot in little and therefore is quiet heavy for his size. In combination with the shortened nose and less breathing room the breed can not stand heat very well. This is a matter of fact and must be considered when you choose to live with a Pug. In hot weather Pugs should be walked just in the morning and cooler evening. When you plan a car journey try not to travel in the beat of the day and make sure there is always sufficient ventilation.  A heat stroke with consequently swelling of the soft palate and blocking of the airways is a severe emergency. Obtain veterinary advice immediately! In the meantime try to extend the neck to free airway. Open doors and windows to obtain as much fresh air as possible. Try to keep calm and do not panic! Use cold wet towels to cool the dog down, frozen peas and crushed ice cubes also help to get the temperature down.

Inoculations: Vaccinations and regular booster injections prevent infectious diseases. Not that long ago before the use of adequate vaccinations some of these (i.e. distemper and Parvovirosis) caused eminent losses in the dog population and caused permanent risk. Thanks to modern and safe vaccinations now dogs can be moved freely and can meet other dogs without risk. A puppy should have its first inoculation normally with g 6r 9 weeks followed by a second with 12 weeks. To keep your Pug protected a annual booster is necessary. Your vet will take the opportunity to give your dog a general check-over.

Joints: Like ourselves and most other breeds Pugs can suffer from joint disorders. Some are simply caused by old age and rheumatism others like slipping stifles, Hip Dysplasia and certain spinal abnormalities are based on genetic defects. Symptoms are lameness, difficulties in getting up and even paralysis. Take limping or abnormal movement serious and contact your vet.

Kennels:  In an ideal world we would have Pugs around us 24 hours a day. Because real life is not that kind there might be situations when you need somebody to look after your Pug. Commercial boarding kennels offer their services. Many offer excellent facilities but cannot replace the benefits and cozy atmosphere of the own home. Check the kennel of your choice in advance and be not afraid to ask questions. An alternative is a "Pugsitter" who take over your Pug for the time you are on holiday. Normally it is expected to offer the same service in reverse. Contact the Pug Dog Welfare Association (PDWA) for details.

Life span: Pugs are a long lived breed and normally reach a good age. 15 or 16 year old Pugs are no rarity. Nevertheless once the day will come to make a decision and to decide if your dog still enjoys a certain quality of life or if it would be kinder to put him to sleep. Consider the dignity of your Pug and listen to your vet. Re can advise you but the final decision has to come from you. Modern drugs make sure that the procedure is painless and as kind and calm as possible.

Moulting: Pugs shed their coat all over the year with a peak season in spring and autumn. The battle can not be won and it is better to adjust to the situation in time and try to select your clothes according to your Pugs colour. Regular brushing and extensive hoovering help to keep the situation in hand!

Neutering:  If you do not want to breed from your Pug earlier or later the question of castration (for males) or spaying (for bitches) will occur. There is no strict medical indication for castration. Tumors. problems with the prostate and behavior problems are acceptable reasons for the operation. Spaying your bitch prevents her from getting into season and consequently to develop an infection of the womb i.e. pyrometra which can be a life threatening condition. Before a bitch is spayed she should have had at least one proper season and should be fully grown. Ideally the operation is performed in-between two seasons (normally 3 month after she finished her last season).

Obesity: There is no excuse to have a overweight Pug! A balanced diet, regular exercise and avoiding tit bits help to keep every Pug slim, fit and healthy!

Parasites: Various external and internal parasites can bother your Pug. The most common ones are fleas and worms. There are now various equally safe and effective products on the market witch can be purchased from your vet. Adult Pugs should be wormed at least once a year.

Rescue: The welfare of Pugs is organized by a nationwide registered charity witch is run by voluntarily helpers called the Pug Dog Welfare Association (PDWA). Pugs all over the country, young and old get prompt help if in need; A wide net of workers help to rescue and re-home Pugs in need. You might be proud owner 0 a Welfare Pug. The PDWA is always interested in the well-being of re-homed Pugs. Do not hesitate to keep in touch and attend the events. To fulfill its work the welfare organization is entirely dependent on donations. which are gratefully accepted. If you want to pledge a legacy discuss it with the Secretary or one of the trustees.

Skin: Pugs have got a very fine skin witch needs regular checking. Especially the wrinkles over the nose and on the forehead need special attention. Make sure that these are always kept dry, clean and free of inflammation. If you find sore spots consult your vet for adequate treatment.

Teeth: Pugs are undershot i.e. the bottom jaw is slightly longer than the top jaw causing the teeth to be differently positioned compared with other breeds. Consequently Pugs are not blessed with the best teeth. Bad breath, tartar and gingivitis are obvious symptoms and can occur from a fairly young age on. Suitable chews and the use of a toothbrush can help to prevent the problem. Nevertheless this is quiet often not enough and a professional dental service under general anesthetic has to be performed by your vet. Modern anesthetics make surgical procedures very safe, but like in human beings, still bear a minimum risk. Make sure that your vet is familiar with the anesthetics of short-nosed breeds and has got a modern anesthetic machine.

Ulcer:  The nightmare for every Pug owner is an eye ulcer. These are injuries of the cornea. Symptoms are a closed eye, abnormal discharge and the eye shows a mark normally surrounded by cloudiness. Ulcers can be the result of an injury (bashing against furniture, playing with another dog, thorns etc.) or can occur spontaneously. Immediate veterinary treatment is required. Your vet will decide how severe the injury is and will prescribe suitable treatment. Normally in form of eye ointment or drops. In rare severe chases even surgical treatment has to be performed. Follow the instructions carefully because aftercare is of eminent importance.

Vets: Choose a vet who understands the breed. You must not expect that every vet is besotted with Pugs like you are but at least should be understanding and familiar with possible breed related conditions. If your vet is showing prejudice against Pugs the charm of the breed should help to change the opinion. If not change the vet!

Water: Make sure that your Pug has always access to fresh water. Excessive drinking can be a symptom of renal dysfunction or other internal disease. Normally Pugs are not keen swimmers and should not be encouraged to swim. Splashing in a bathtub or baby basin can be fun and helps to keep your Pug cool in the heat of the summer. Proper swimming pools are extremely dangerous. Never keep your Pug unattended near a swimming pool!

ZZZzzzzzzzz..........is for sleeping.  Pugs like best to sleep on the sofa, at your feet (bare unwashed feet preferably) and your bed; but failing that they are quite happy to sleep in a dog bed (various types). They particularly like the 'hammock' type (which do not harbour little insect pests!), floor cushions, children's (toy) armchairs or the carpet!  However its best for puppies to start out with an old bed or cardboard box, as they may chew a little bit until all the milk teeth have gone. You can paint or decorate the puppy's carboard box to make it more acceptable in the living room - the kids love this job, spend all night choosing the name and paint it on!  Bedding can be fitted carpet, a blanket , quilt or the 'vet bed' fleece type. In hot climates puppy will be glad of a cold tiled floor!

Enjoy life with your Pug!

If you have questions or you need help do not hesitate to contact the Pug Dog Welfare & Rescue Association (PDWRA)

Secretary: Mr. J. Smith

Tel: (+44) 01142 874245

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