Health problems in Pugs are usually related to their eyes,
face and legs, even though other problems might exist. Please
remember that every dog is unique and that this is only a
list of some of the most common health problems Pugs might
experience. And as always, if your Pug is experiencing any
kind of health problem, contact your vet!
------ Eye Problems ------
Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry Eye Syndrome is a quite common and potentially blinding
condition, which develops due to the decline of tear production
in the eye. Treatment consists of drug therapy and surgery.
Bilateral Cataracts
Bilateral Cataracts is recognized by dense spots on the lens
of the eye. These spots may cause partial or total loss
of vision. In some cases surgery may help.
Entropion
Entropion is a problem caused by the Pug’s eyelashes
irritating the surface of the eyeball. This should be treated
since it might lead to more serious problems.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
(PRA)
PRA is the deterioration of the vessels around the retina.
This condition usually begins with night blindness in younger
dogs, but as their vision deteriorates it can lead to blindness.
Since Pugs have such
a short nose and such bulky eyes, they can easily scratch
their corneas or even puncture their eyeballs. Therefore,
try to keep them away from sharp objects at all times!
------ Breathing Problems ------
Tracheal Collapse
Tracheal Collapse is a narrowing of the windpipe. Symptoms
include a cough (especially after exercise) harsh breathing
and gagging. Treatment consists of conservative therapy or
surgery.
Elongated Soft Palate (ESP)
ESP is the obstruction of the dogs’ airways. Excessive
gasping for air and the blocking of the Pug’s vocal
box are some of the signs. ESP can be corrected with surgery.
Stenotic Nares
Stenotic Nares is a birth defect where the nostrils are too
small and the Pug puppy has difficulties breathing through
his nose. This condition puts a strain on the Pug’s
entire body and can lead to an enlargement of the heart, tracheal
collapse and chronic bronchitis.
------
Leg and Knee Problems ------
Hip Dysplasia (HD)
Hip Dysplasia can be described as a bad fit between the two
bones of the hip joint and is caused by malformation of one
or the other. HD often causes stiffness in the hind legs,
substantial pain and in more severe cases, lameness.
Patellar Luxation
Patellar Luxation or kneecap dislocation occurs when the kneecap
slides out of its groove. A Pug with Patellar Luxation can
sometimes limp or walk on three legs. Surgery is often the
treatment of choice here, since it is a serious health condition.
Pug Dog Encephalitis
Pug Dog Encephalitis or PDE is an inflammatory disease of
the brain that often causes seizures. If your Pug is experiencing
seizures, he or she should definitely be tested for this disorder.
Demodectic Mange
Lots of Pugs get Demodectic Mange, a parasitic skin disease
caused by a mite and which can cause hair loss and irritation.
Demodectic Mange does require veterinary treatment, but it
is usually easily cured with a shot and ointment.
Portosystemic Shunt (PSS)
A PSS is an abnormal vessel that allows blood to bypass the
liver. As a result, the blood is not cleansed properly. Symptoms
may include, but are not limited to, vomiting, diarrhea, loss
of appetite, hunger for non-food substances, depression and
intolerance of protein-rich food.
Please remember that this is only
a list of some common health problems that Pugs might experience.
And as always, if your Pug is experiencing any kind of heath
problem, contact your veterinarian.
