15 Tips for a Happy and Healthy Pug

With their squished faces and prominent personalities, Pugs have melted hearts worldwide. But all that cuteness comes at a cost because keeping these adorable pups in tip-top shape takes some know-how. If you are wondering how to do so, here are 15 ways to keep your pug feeling fantastic and looking fabulous. Ready to give your pug the VIP treatment? Let’s roll!

Balanced Diet Brilliance

Feeding your pug right is critical to its health. Ideally, this may mean skipping the table scraps and sticking to high-quality dog food. You also want to measure portions carefully to avoid overfeeding. Then, add some low-calorie veggies like carrots or green beans for extra nutrients.

Water, Water Everywhere

Pugs need constant access to fresh water because their flat faces might cause overheating. So, keep water bowls in several spots around your home. When out and about, take a portable water bottle and a collapsible bowl. A well-hydrated pug is a happy pug!

Snack Smart

Treats are great for training, but you must feed your pugs in moderation. When choosing the right snack for your dog, select low-calorie options like small pieces of apple or banana. Also, avoid feeding your pug human foods like grapes and onions because they harm dogs.

Pug-perfect Playtime

Even though exercising your pugs is essential for them to stay active, remember that they’re not built for marathons. Engaging them in short, frequent play sessions works best. Generally, aim for 20-30 minutes of activity daily, split into smaller chunks to avoid overexertion.

Walk This Way

What better way to keep your pugs active than to take them on daily walks to stimulate them mentally? You should also schedule these activities for cooler times of the day. Use a harness instead of a collar to protect their delicate throats.

Cool as a Cucumber

Often times,pugs overhead because of their short snouts. Never leave them in hot cars or outside on warm days. Instead, provide cool spots like tile floors or cooling mats in your home. On hot days, try frozen treats or a kiddie pool for supervised splashing.

Grooming Greatness

By regularly grooming your pugs, you help them look and feel their best. Because of their thick fur, pugs are highly likely to shed. So brush their coat weekly to remove loose fur and distribute skin oils. Also, clean facial wrinkles daily with a damp cloth to prevent infections. 

Eye Spy

Pugs’ bulging eyes need extra care. To do that, gently wipe around their eyes using a damp cloth to dislodge any discharge. Watch for redness or excessive tearing, as these could signal eye problems. Some pugs benefit from eye drops to keep their peepers moist.

Breathe Easy

Flat-faced breeds like pugs often have breathing issues. Avoid strong perfumes or cleaning products that might irritate their sensitive noses. Talk to your vet about potential treatments if your pug snores excessively or struggles to breathe.

Weigh to Go

Your pugs should always be of a healthy weight to help minimize health crises. Note that any excess pounds they get tend to strain their joints and worsen breathing problems. You should be able to feel their ribs without pressing hard. If your pug needs to slim down, work with your vet on a safe weight loss plan.

Dental Diligence

Pugs are prone to dental issues, so start a tooth-brushing routine early. Use dog-specific toothpaste (never human toothpaste!) and a soft brush. Caring for your pug’s dental health includes daily brushing and dental chews and toys. Also, ensure they get an x-ray at least once a year.

Snooze Control

Pugs love to sleep, but too much lounging leads to weight gain. Work on creating an active daily routine with scheduled playtimes and walks. Additionally, please provide them with comfy beds in quiet spots for quality rest. Typically, you also want to watch for excessive daytime sleepiness.

Social Butterflies

Mental stimulation is as vital for pugs as physical exercise. Arrange playdates with other dog-friendly pooches. When you take your pug on short outings to new places, you allow them to experience fresh sights and smells. Also, training sessions should include using positive reinforcement to keep their minds sharp.

Vet Visits Victory

Regular check-ups are vital to catching health issues early. Remember, your pugs need annual exams, vaccinations, and parasite prevention. Discuss breed-specific concerns like eye problems or breathing difficulties with your vet. Keep a log of any unusual symptoms between visits.

Love and Limits

Pugs thrive on affection, but don’t let those puppy eyes trick you into overfeeding them. Set loving boundaries for their health. Reward good behavior with praise and gentle pets instead of treats. Remember, a healthy pug is one that can enjoy your company for years to come.