Expensive Medical Problems
Like most purebred dogs, pugs are prone to many expensive health problems. If spending a lot of money on veterinary bills is simply unacceptable, consider waiting until you are more financially prepared to adopt a pug, or look into less expensive types of pets or breeds. Common medical problems include:
- Their teeth tend to be crowded in their mouths. They require dental cleanings by a vet – often every year
- Pigmentary Keratitis, an eye condition requiring daily medication for life to prevent blindness
- Dry eyes, requiring daily eye lubricant
- Arthritis and general mobility issues
- Allergies – both food and seasonal
- Luxating Patellas which may require surgery depending on severity
- Wrinkles and ears prone to infection. They must be regularly cleaned
- They may develop breathing problems from their short snouts
- Elongated soft palates, which may require surgery depending on severity
- Eyes that are prone to injury
Pug Behavior
While some dogs were bred to herd sheep or hunt birds, pugs were bred to be lap dogs. In a pug’s mind, it’s their “job” to be your best friend, 24/7.
- Pugs tend to be underfoot, and will try to follow you wherever you go (they are often referred to as “velcro dogs”)
- If they are left alone for long hours, they may become depressed and exhibit behavioral problems
- They may exhibit behavioral problems if they are not allowed to be close to you and interact with you when you are home
- They are not a good choice for people who work long hours or are frequently not home
- Pugs are very difficult to housebreak, and often have accidents even when they are considered “housebroken”
- Pugs are generally more difficult to train than working and hunting breeds of dog
- Many pugs are fussy about being outside during inclement weather
- While many adult and senior pugs are lazy, pug puppies are full of energy and require a great deal of time, exercise, training and attention
Safety Concerns
- Pugs cannot be left outside for long periods of time
- Excessive heat can quickly become fatal to pugs – they physically cannot tolerate extreme temperatures
- Pugs have been known to be targeted by thieves who will steal unattended pugs from their yards and enclosures
- They are poor swimmers and must be supervised near any body of water
- They have a tendency to gain weight, resulting in additional health and mobility problems
Grooming
- Pugs shed a LOT, year-round. And contrary to popular belief, most black pugs shed as much as fawn pugs.
- They are NOT hypoallergenic. If you’re allergic to dogs, you’ll probably be allergic to pugs.
- They require regular nail trims (which they usually hate)