Knowing what to look for makes all the difference
Pugs are a brachycephalic breed with unique health needs. Their flat faces, prominent eyes, and wrinkled skin make them prone to certain conditions – but with the right knowledge, most issues can be caught early or prevented entirely.
This guide covers the most common health concerns in pugs, what to watch for, and when to involve your vet.
Common Pug Health Issues
Breathing difficulties
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is the most common issue in pugs. Signs include noisy breathing, snorting, gagging, exercise intolerance, and overheating quickly.
Keep your pug at a healthy weight, avoid vigorous exercise in hot weather, and use a harness instead of a collar to reduce pressure on the airway.
Eye problems
Pugs' large, prominent eyes are vulnerable to scratches, ulcers, dry eye, and infections. Regular cleaning and knowing the warning signs can prevent minor issues from becoming serious.
Watch for squinting, redness, cloudiness, discharge, or pawing at the face – these all warrant a vet visit.
Skin fold infections
Those adorable wrinkles can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to skin fold dermatitis. Regular cleaning and thorough drying of each fold is the best prevention.
If you notice redness, smell, or discharge from the folds, clean more frequently and consult your vet if it persists.
Weight management
Pugs love food and can easily become overweight, which puts strain on their joints, heart, and breathing. A healthy pug should have a visible waistline and you should be able to feel their ribs without pressing hard.
Measure food portions, limit treats, and ensure regular but gentle exercise.
Ear infections
Pugs' floppy ears can trap moisture and wax, leading to infections. Check ears weekly for redness, smell, or discharge. Clean with a vet-recommended ear cleaner – never use cotton buds inside the ear canal.
When to see a vet
Some symptoms need prompt veterinary attention. Contact your vet if your pug shows any of these signs:
Difficulty breathing or blue-tinged gums
Eye injury, squinting, or sudden vision changes
Repeated vomiting or diarrhoea
Seizures or collapse
Sudden lameness or refusal to put weight on a leg
Lumps that grow quickly or change appearance
Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
What health issues are pugs most prone to?
Pugs are most prone to breathing difficulties (BOAS), eye problems (scratches, ulcers, dry eye), skin fold infections, obesity, ear infections, and joint issues. Regular vet check-ups and a good daily care routine can help manage or prevent many of these.
What is the average lifespan of a pug?
Pugs typically live between 12 and 15 years. With good care, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and prompt veterinary attention when needed, many pugs live well into their teens.
Is it normal for pugs to snort and snore?
Some snorting and snoring is normal due to their flat faces. However, if the breathing becomes consistently loud, your pug struggles to breathe after mild exercise, or they frequently gag or reverse sneeze, it's worth discussing with your vet.
The content on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are concerned about your pug's health, always consult a qualified veterinary surgeon.