Pugs: A Mini Guide For Owners

The content of this blog article has been reviewed and approved by our resident veterinarian Tom-Rhind Tutt BVetMed MRCVS

Understanding Pug Basics

Pugs are beloved worldwide and known for their wrinkled faces and curly tails, and are known to be sociable and easygoing, making them fantastic companions. 

Pugs have a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Their heritage can be traced to ancient China, where they were highly valued for their unique appearance and endearing personalities.

Ancient China: Pugs, also known as “Lo-sze,” were believed to have originated in ancient China during the Shang Dynasty (around 1766 to 1122 BC) or possibly even earlier. They were bred as companion dogs for Chinese emperors and nobility and lived a life of luxury, which is the life many pampered pugs still very much enjoy today!

How long do Pugs live for? 

Pugs typically have a lifespan of around 12 to 15 years, although some may live longer with proper care. Like all breeds, the lifespan of a Pug is  influenced by various factors, including genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health maintenance.

Remember to consider cover for breed-specific health conditions to help protect your Pug, as the breed is sadly susceptible to eye conditions and respiratory system disorders, as outlined in more detail in our Pug pet insurance guide.

How much are Pugs? 

The cost of buying a Pug in the UK can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the breeder’s reputation, pedigree of parents, sex, and location. However, based on our own data here at Perfect Pet Insurance, the average purchase price for a Pug was £805 from a period covering October 2022 to September 2023. 

We strongly recommend reading our Ultimate Guide to Adopting a Dog before taking the plunge, as there are many points to consider. Remember that Petfishing is a thing, therefore, always do your research first. 

Are Pugs good for first time owners?

Pugs can be a good choice for first-time dog owners due to their friendly temperament, small size, and moderate exercise needs. However, prospective owners should be prepared for potential health issues and be committed to training and grooming responsibilities.

Our resident vet Tom Rhind-Tutt BVetMed MRCVS commented…

“Pugs are prone to breed specific health issues, such as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (due to their flat faces), hip dysplasia, slipping knee-caps, skin issues, dental issues (again due to their flat faces)and obesity. First-time owners should be prepared for potential health challenges and explore veterinary cover for brachycephalic breeds options to cover the cost of potential vet fees.”

Health and Nutrition

Like all dogs, you should feed your Pug a high-quality and balanced diet for their size, age, and activity level. We recommend consulting with your local veterinarian for the specific dietary requirements, as this will vary based on the factors we have outlined. 

For the full health picture, read our guide to the common Pug health problems to watch for.

Always be mindful of portion control to prevent obesity, a common issue many Pugs face (they will happily overindulge if you let them). 

Exercise and Play

Pugs need daily exercise to stay healthy. Consider short brisk walks, with some of our Dog Enrichment Hacks thrown in for mental stimulation, too! 

Always be aware that Pugs can overheat easily. Therefore, you should avoid overexertion and strenuous exercises, particularly in hot weather, when you should consider our top tips to keep your dog cool in a heatwave. 

How to groom a Pug?

Pugs have short, dense coats which shed year-round, therefore, regular brushing is essential to remove loose hair and minimise shedding. Ideally, use a soft-bristle brush and try to brush twice weekly if possible. 

When it comes to bathing pugs, you may be pleased to know that they do not require frequent baths, typically, a bath every 6-8 weeks should suffice. 

Remember that dirt and moisture can become trapped in a Pug’s adorable facial wrinkles, which could lead to skin issues. Clean their facial wrinkles gently with a damp cloth or special dog-safe wipes. 

Aim to trim your Pug’s nails every 2-4 weeks or as needed. Be careful not to cut too close to the quick (pink part of the nail) as it can cause bleeding and discomfort.

As always, if you are unsure, you should ask your vet or seek the services of a local professional dog groomer. 

When you take out eligible pet dog insurance with Perfect Pet Insurance, you will benefit from Vet Assist, where you can get expert advice on demand for addressing minor concerns and receive general pet care guidance. 

Remember to make grooming a positive and gentle experience for your Pug by offering treats and praise. Additionally, watch for any unusual lumps, bumps, or changes in your Pug’s skin or coat during grooming, and consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Safety and Comfort

Don’t forget to Pug-proof your home, which should include removing hazards (including cables and small electronics) and many other small items out of reach as Pugs are partial to having a good chew! 

If you welcome a Pug puppy to your home, then consider our tips for puppy proofing your home. 

As Pugs can easily overheat, paying attention to temperatures outside and within the home is a good idea. Providing warmth in cold weather is vital.

While in warmer times, shade and lots of water are highly recommended. 

Common Questions About Pugs

Are pugs good dogs?

Pugs are widely regarded as excellent companion dogs. They are loyal, affectionate, and tend to form strong bonds with their owners.

Their small size makes them well suited to flat or apartment living, and they are generally good with children and other pets. The main consideration is their health – pugs are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they can experience breathing difficulties, so potential owners should be prepared for possible veterinary care.

Do pugs have a lot of health problems?

Pugs are more prone to certain health conditions than some other breeds. Their flat faces can cause breathing difficulties, and they are susceptible to eye problems, skin fold infections, and joint issues.

Obesity is also a common concern because pugs love food and can be less active than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and appropriate exercise can help manage many of these risks.

Having a good pug insurance policy in place is worth considering given the breed’s health profile.

Are pugs high maintenance?

Pugs are relatively low maintenance in terms of exercise – they do not need long runs or intense activity. However, they do require regular grooming, particularly cleaning their facial wrinkles to prevent infection.

Their shedding can be surprisingly heavy for a small dog. On the health side, pugs may need more veterinary attention than some breeds due to their brachycephalic anatomy.

Overall, they are manageable for most owners, including first-timers, as long as you stay on top of grooming and health monitoring.

How much exercise does a pug need?

Pugs need around 30 to 45 minutes of exercise per day, split across two shorter walks. They enjoy play sessions and mental stimulation, but they should not be over-exercised – particularly in warm weather, as their flat faces make them prone to overheating.

Short, gentle walks combined with indoor play and enrichment activities are usually enough to keep a pug happy and healthy.

Summary

Remember that every Pug is unique, so adapt these tips to your Pug’s individual needs. With proper care, your Pug will be a loyal and lovable family member for years.

Enjoy the journey as a proud Pug parent.