If you have a pug, or should I say if you are owned by a pug, then you know what a joy they are to have in your life. Pugs are wonderful dogs indeed. Their personalities could easily be big enough for a great dane, but it is all jam packed in that stout little pug body. When I made the decision to get a pug, I did a lot of research. I knew that there was the possibility I would have to deal with ear infections, skin irritations, yeast infections, and snoring. If anyone asks me about owning a pug because they are considering one, I always tell them the health baggage first. Of course I follow it up with the fact that my pug is the sweetest, most loyal, and fun little guy. But boy have I had to deal with some strange things with my pug, have I mentioned his battle with his weight yet?
The first time I noticed problems with my pugs skin folds, he had this weird smell around his face. Sure enough when we went to the vet, the vet lifted his skin fold over his nose and he had a yeast infection. I thought I was the worst dog owner ever. For a couple of weeks I had to daily clean his ears and folds on his face. Now, it is done on a regular basis for maintenance. If you have an issue with goo and ear wax and other gross things, I do not recommend you get a pug.
My little man has some very sensitive skin. When the weather changes or if a flea looks at him, my pug will begin his annoying and incessant licking and scratching. Twice a year typically he has to go on Prednisone for skin allergies. He also cannot use regular old topical Frontline for his flea and tick prevention, but he needs a pills that I have to fight with him to take. Talk about high maintenance.
His weight was a battle for the first couple of years of his life. One minute he was too heavy, after a diet too thin, and I was going crazy trying to figure out what to do. See my pug never eats people food or anything like that so it wasn’t like I was causing this weight issue, we had to try three different types of dog food to find the perfect balance. Now, though his weight is taken care of.
He still gets an occassional ear infection, and the skin allergies are unavoidable but he is a healthy pug. Good new too is that my pug is a light snorer unlike others. Just know that if you are looking for a companion in a pug, they do come with some health related issues. Be prepared but know that there is nothing better than pug love.
