Q&A for How to Care for a Pug

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What type of solution should be used to clean a pug's ears?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Always chose an ear cleaner designed for dogs. However, not all ear cleaners are created equal. Look for one that is sympathetic to the pH of dog skin and evaporates easily (so it doesn't leave a puddle of cleaner deep in the ear canal.)

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Question

My pug's hair is constantly falling out. I've tried lotion, powder, and shampoo, but nothing seems to work. Do you have any ideas?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

It's important to get your pet checked by a vet in order to rule out a parasitic infection or a medical condition that could be triggering the infection. If he is itchy and scratches, damaging his skin, he may well have allergies. You could try putting him on a hypoallergenic diet for 8-12 weeks and see if his skin health improves during this time.

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Question

How much should you feed a pug?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

The golden rule when feeding a pug is not to give too much. They will try to fool you into thinking they are permanently hungry. Use their predicted adult weight and use the feeding guide on the pack. Also get used to body scoring so you can detect if they're gaining too much weight.

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Question

Are pugs a good dog to have?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Thereby hangs a dilemma because the pug character is delightful, but their anatomy, with the flat face, compromises their breathing. Thus, ethically it is hard to justify perpetuating the modern breed with their distressing health issues.

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Question

Are pugs easy to care for?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Pugs are easy going dogs, but sadly have lots of health problems. This can mean special care in hot or cold weather, and the possibility of vet bills related to their breathing difficulties.

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