Pugs cannot be considered "a typical dog" due to dire health issues, study finds (2024)

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Pugs cannot be considered "a typical dog" due to dire health issues, study finds? ›

However, many of the pug's defining characteristics also bring about distinct health issues. Infact, because pugs tend to have so many health problems, they can no longer be considered a “typical dog from a health perspective,” according to a 2022 study in Canine Medicine and Genetics.

A new study suggests that pugs face such serious health conditions they can "no longer be considered a typical dog from a health perspective." Research from the Royal Veterinary College has revealed the health of pugs is now substantially different and largely worse than other dogs.

Pugs are prone to many health problems, including eye, ear, and skin infections and breathing problems. This requires consistent and frequent bathing and ear cleaning, as well as frequent and sometimes expensive trips to the veterinarian. Health insurance is a great investment for pet owners that want a Pug.

Perturbed by pugs

“The surge in popularity of these dogs has increased animal suffering and resulted in unwell pets for owners, so we strongly encourage people to think about choosing a healthier breed or crossbreed instead,” Sean Wensley, president of the BVA, says to The Guardian.

Cancer is the most common cause of death of pugs in their golden years, and younger pugs are especially prone to mast cell tumors and oral melanoma (skin cancer of the mouth).

Pugs are prone to kidney and urinary issues, so keeping them well-hydrated is very important to their long-term health. Pugs generally need to go out every 4-5 hours. Some pugs can “hold it” for 6-7 hours, but any longer and you're risking your pug's health. Pugs are prone to UTI's and kidney infections can be deadly.

Pugs are fairly robust and often live to 14 or 15 years of age. Pugs do best with some daily exercise to help with their weight problems.

Pugs are a breathing-impaired breed and are 54 times more likely to suffer from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome—a disease that greatly limits a dog's ability to breathe—than other types of dogs.

Small brachycephalic dog breeds, such as the pug and French bulldog, are prone to develop specific neurological conditions and spinal disorders in particular.

Pug. Quiet, small and far from being a natural athlete, the Pug is another miniature puppy you'll be happy to have in your home. Known as a low-maintenance dog breed, the Pug does tend to shed, but they need minimal grooming and only half hour of walking a day to stay in shape.

What is pugs weakness? ›

“Common causes of rear limb weakness in pugs include things like slipped discs, tumors, and degenerative myelopathy, but the most common cause is pug myelopathy, or constrictive myelopathy.”

If you're especially concerned about health issues but love the look of these pups, Boston Terriers are known to be one of the healthiest brachycephalic dog breeds, due to their long breeding history.

Yes, your dog knows how much you love him! Dogs and humans have a very special relationship, where dogs have hijacked the human oxytocin bonding pathway normally reserved for our babies. When you stare at your dog, both your oxytocin levels go up, the same as when you pet them and play with them.

Pugs are intelligent and sensitive. These little dogs also often have a stubborn streak and so may need a firm but fair hand when it comes to their training. Due to their sociable nature, puppy training classes will be a big hit with your Pug and will help to socialise them as well as teach them basic commands.

Flat-faced dog breeds, including French Bulldogs and Pugs, have the shortest life expectancy, a new study has found. According to vets at the Royal Veterinary College, brachycephalic dogs don't live as long due to the increased risk of breathing problems, skin fold infections and spinal disease they face.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) currently lists pugs as the 28th most popular dog breed out of the 204 AKC-recognized breeds.

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)

The compressed noses are part of the charm of Pugs, but they can also lead to breathing difficulties and an inability to easily cool down, also known as brachycephalic syndrome. The anatomy of Pugs gives them one of the cutest faces in the canine world.

Pugs are an ancient breed of dog, with roots dating back to 400 B.C. Most historians agree that the breed originated in China, where they were bred as companion animals for the wealthy.

The modern Pug's appearance probably changed after 1860, when a new wave of dogs were seized as loot by French and British soldiers who razed the Old Summer Palace in Beijing (then Peking), China. They were "Happa dogs", or "Pekingese pugs" as they would come to be known by the western fancier.