Pugs are beloved for their affectionate personalities and adorable looks, making them a popular choice for pet owners. However, many people wonder do pugs have health issues. From allergies to skin problems and more, do pugs have specific health concerns to be aware of? This article will provide you with valuable insights into the common health issues that pugs may face, so you can give your furry friend the best possible care

Pugs are flat-faced breeds. The wrinkles and cuteness on their face make anyone fall for them. But keeping a close eye on them helps avoid many health concerns. Before laying hands on these cute little pugs, one must know some extra concerns.

Common Health Issues in Pugs

Due to possible health issues and their impact on the quality of life of the pugs, it is recommended to think twice before having one in your home. A clean bill of health is a gift for sure. Some of the major health issues are discussed below. 

When we ask, do pugs have health issues, they can be divided into two groups, mainly general and genetic health conditions. So, when you get concerned about do pugs have health issues, this article will guide you with general and genetic health issues within your pug.

General Health Conditions

Dental diseases

Dental diseases are prevalent in our society, and when it comes to pets, dental issues are chronic problems in almost 80% of dogs. Dental diseases begin with the build-up of tartar on the teeth, leading to infections in the gums. 

The gum infection, if not treated timely, may progress into the roots of the teeth. This progression often leads to the loss of teeth. Dental issues can also lead to other health problems like liver, heart, and kidney disorders.

Infections

When talking about do pugs have health issues, yes, they do. Pugs are sensitive to viral and bacterial infections. Moreover, they are prone to rabies, parvovirus, and distemper. 

One can avoid certain infections with timely vaccinations. The vaccinations are recommended according to the pug’s age, the dwelling area, and the conditions it is living in.

Obesity

Obesity is a significant disorder in humans as well as in animals. Looking out for obesity in pugs while discussing do pugs have health issues is essential. Obesity can lead to other issues, such as joint, metabolic, and digestive disorders.

One loves their pug to death and wants to offer a good treat to them. The soulful eyes, when looking at you with all that love and affection, one cannot deny the treat and love. But remember, health is wealth, and one must take good care of their pugs.

Patella luxation

Patella luxation is known as the kneecap moving out of its groove. It leads to limping and pain while walking. It can be due to any hereditary malformation or an injury. You should ensure adequate exercise, avoid strenuous activity, and be overweight to avoid the problem.

Spay or neuter

Spaying removes ovaries from female pugs; neutering is the term for removing testicles from male pugs. Spaying or neutering is the best possible surgery that a vet can do for your little pugs.

Spaying and neutering help avoid certain diseases like cancers and eliminate the likelihood of them becoming pregnant. It further saves you the hassle of parenting unwanted puppies. Moreover, you can diagnose certain diseases when the pug is under anesthesia.

Genetic Disorders

Liver problems

Knowing the common disorders is critical when discussing whether pugs have health issues. For example, liver problems such as portosystemic shunt (PSS) are common liver disorders in pugs. The blood supply to the liver is inadequate and lacks functionality.

The liver is not fully capable of removing toxins from the bloodstream. A liver function test (LFT) helps guide the problem. In the later stages of PSS, your pug might also suffer from seizures or stunted growth and be out of shape. A vet can do an ultrasound to diagnose the condition.

Eye diseases

How can one forget eye diseases while discussing do pugs have health issues? Pugs tend to have eye disorders more than any other animal or pet. The main reason behind it is that they have protruded eyeballs.

Entropion is a condition that leads to the rolling of eyelids inwards. As a result, the eyelashes rub against the cornea, causing irritation and pain. Dry eyes or Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is also common in pugs where eye fluid production reduces, leading to sore and itchy eyes.

Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is a serious condition that needs to be addressed timely. The symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination and an increased urge to eat and drink. Dogs, mainly pugs, are more susceptible to diabetes mellitus.

It is a disease where pugs cannot regulate and metabolize sugars within their body. Therefore, insulin injections are required daily. If pugs show any of the abovementioned signs and symptoms, timely tests to diagnose the condition are essential.

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)

The charm of pugs comes from their compressed nostrils; however, little do the owners know, it causes breathing problems often. The main causative factors of BOAS are the narrow nostrils, narrow windpipe, and elongated soft palate.

If your pug suffers from BOAS, it might struggle to breathe and fill the lungs inadequately. The problem worsens during the summertime giving your pug a hard time. Consult a vet if your pug repeatedly stops to catch a breath or makes noises while breathing.

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease

When discussing whether pugs have health issues, we must also discuss Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. The disease affects the hip bone of your pug. The reason for the disease is inadequate blood flow to the hip area.

As the disease progresses, it causes lameness and pain in moving the leg. Moreover, the disease progression may also cause arthritis in the long run. A surgeon can surgically remove the dead portion of the bone, and if the pug is young, early and fast healing is expected.

Granulomatous Meningoencephalitis (GME)

An inflammatory disease affecting the central nervous system is Granulomatous Meningoencephalitis (GME). GME is the main reason for irreversible damage to the brain. Pugs are more susceptible to the disorder than any other breed of canines.

Do pugs have health issues? We’ve been talking about it lately. For better understanding, we’ve attached a link to the youtube video below. This video helps you better understand their personality, care, and health issues.

Watch this video: Expose the Truth: Do Pugs Have Health Issues The Surprising Facts You Need to Know!

Preventative Measures

Do pugs have health issues? How can one prevent health disorders? Prevention is better than cure is a felicitous quote, as with health comes activeness, and if the pug feels under the weather, it may be lousy.

To prevent pugs from potential disorders, one may need timely vaccinations, visits, and regular follow-ups with a vet. In addition, properly cleaning their folds and wrinkles, regularly bathing, and brushing their fur off fleas and ticks often help avoid many medical disorders.

The cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle circulates a healthy diet. Pugs are fond of food and love to snack around almost anytime. Therefore, do pugs have health issues? Pugs may become overweight, so maintaining a proper diet is essential.

Breeding practices are important for any pet you house. It helps them understand your signs and moods while you learn their whining and barking. Breeding in pugs also helps them be playful and alleviate your moods while playing and hovering around.

What to Expect as a Pug Owner?

Pugs are not couch potatoes. They love to roam and follow you wherever you go. Pugs can be space invaders and may run to other dogs to play but may cause a backlash from the opposite dog or pet.

Moreover, pugs are also prone to multiple diseases and disorders. Knowing some basic stuff about such diseases initially helps to understand a potential problem beforehand. They can be high maintenance leading to breaking the bank.

Pugs are known to be highly entertaining. They have clownish nature and personality and are known to adapt well to family environments. However, they might not be the pets for you if you are a nightwalker and stay out throughout the day.

Conclusion

Do pugs have health issues? Health issues can be a major concern when it comes to owning pugs. These health risks can be fatal if not taken seriously, from breathing problems and eye injuries to joint and skin conditions.

Doing your research before bringing a pug to your home is best. Educate yourself on hereditary diseases within the pugs so you know what signs and symptoms to look out for in case something arises. Stay up-to-date on vaccinations and checkups. Visit allourcreatures to learn more.