The Care of Pug Dogs

The pug is one of the oldest known breeds of dogs and is dated back to around 400 B.C. in China, where the dogs were pets of Buddhist Monks in Tibet. They are loving and playful pets, and their sole purpose in life is to be close to their owners and please them. They are adaptable and sturdy and can live in small homes and apartments as they do not require a lot of exercise or space. Pugs are a healthy breed and fairly easy to care for as they don't require a lot of grooming.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog food
  • Ear wash
  • Rolled cotton
  • Damp wash cloth
  • Natural bristle grooming brush
  • Dog nail clippers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Train your pug; a trained dog is a happy dog since a trained dog requires fewer restrictions and can be given more freedom. Teach your dog important lessons in potty training, leash commands and socialization. Look for an experienced trainer in your area that uses motivational tools. Train one on one with a trainer; go to dog classes; or purchase books and videos on how to train your pug.

    • 2

      Feed your pug the proper amount of food according to package directions for his weight and age, Check your pug continuously to determine if you need to alter the amount he is fed based on how he looks. Feel your dog's ribs--you should be able to just feel them through the skin, and also check that your pug has a defined waist. Pugs are notorious over eaters and act hungry, even if well fed. Obesity is one of the primary health issues for this breed.

    • 3

      Clean your pug's ears every few days with an ear wash to avoid infections, Use an ear wash obtained from your veterinarian. Spray the ear wash in his ear, gently work it through the ear with your fingers and then wipe out with a long, rectangular strip of rolled cotton.

    • 4

      Clean your pug's nose roll and face wrinkles every few days by lifting the folds of skin and wiping thoroughly with a damp wash cloth. Follow with a wipe down with a piece of rolled cotton that is sprayed with ear wash.

    • 5

      Brush your pug on a weekly basis to remove shedding fur, stimulate the skin, and give your dog's coat a healthy sheen. Use a natural bristle brush, which is recommended for short haired breeds.

    • 6

      Trim or file down your pug's nails every four to six weeks to keep them short and avoid painful broken nails or long nails that grow into the dog's foot. Cut or file them with a rotary grinder. Ask your vet to show you the correct amount to cut or file and how to safely trim the dog's nails yourself.

    • 7

      Avoid heavy exercising of your pug in high heat and humidity. Keep your dog cool since hot weather can exacerbate a pug's breathing difficulties. Listen for breathing problems and check your dog for excessive snoring or gasping to breathe--in event of either of these symptoms, have your vet check your dog. Surgery is sometimes needed to correct breathing problems in pugs.