Common Health Problems in Pug Dogs

Pugs are dogs known for their short face and small stature. They are excellent apartment dogs as they do not require much exercise, but before adopting a pug, you should become aware of some of the health problems they may experience.

  1. Pug Dog Encephalitis

    • Pug dog encephalitis was once a disease that was thought to affect only pugs. It is an inflammatory condition of the brain, and it can affect dogs of either sex. It manifests itself in the form of seizures in pug dogs that are older than 5 years old or younger than 1 year old.

    Dry Eye Syndrome

    • Dry Eye syndrome is also known as Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca. This condition is caused by the low levels of tear production in the eyes of the pug. It is a very common serious eye problem among pugs and, if left untreated, it can lead to blindness.

    Hip Dysplasia

    • Hip dysplasia is a malformation that causes the the bones of hip to sit together poorly. While it is most common in larger dogs, it can often be found in pugs as well. This hereditary disease causes stiffness in the rear legs, and as it worsens, it can result in pain and a loss of mobility. Hip dysplasia can be diagnosed when a pug is as young as 2 months old.

    Tracheal Collapse

    • Tracheal collapse refers to the pug's windpipe being overly narrow as a result of the softening of the cartilage rings in the throat. This problem is common to pugs and other toy breeds. A tracheal collapse can be indicated by a persistent cough, gagging and loud breathing.

    Stenotic Nares

    • Stenotic nares describes a condition in which a pug's narrow nostril openings strain its breathing and its ability to receive oxygen. This inherited problem results in reduced airflow, but the problem can be corrected by surgery.

    Portosystemic Shunt

    • A portosystemic shunt, or PSS, is a problem in which an abnormal vein causes blood to bypass the liver. Because of this, the blood is not filtered, and in turn, it will cause neurological diseases. PSS is more likely to occur in female pugs than in male pugs.