Common Pug Health Problems
 

>Eye Problems- Entropion, Cataracts, Dry eyes, Ulcerative Keratitis,Pigmentary Keratitis, PRA, Trichiasis

>Narrow or restricted nostrils

>Elongated soft palate- The soft palate is part of the structure of the nose and mouth. If it gets too long, it can block some of the airway into your Pug's lungs.

>Demodectic mange- Demodectic mange is caused by Demodex canis, a tiny mite that cannot be seen without the aid of a microscope. This mange strikes puppies from three to 12 months old. The demodex mite is commonly present in the pores of puppy skin and usually does not cause symptoms, and it not at all certain what causes them to activate. The mites can produce a substance that lowers the dog's resistance to them and make use of an opportunity to multiply. It's also possible that some lines of purebred dogs carry lowered resistance to the mites, and that stress can trigger an active infestation. In any case, demodectic mange symptoms include thinning of the hair around the eyes and mouth and on the front legs that evolves into patches of hair loss approximately one inch in diameter. This mange may correct itself within three months or may require treatment. However, demodectic mange can also begin as a localized infestation and develop into a generalized case with multiple hair-loss sites on the dog's head, legs, and body. This is a far more serious condition and requires veterinary attention. The dog's skin is sore, crusty, and oozing; the hair follicles are clogged with mites and debris. Treatment is extended and requires bathing in medicated shampoo and application of an insecticide to kill the mites.

>Encephalitis- Pug encephalitis is a disease in which seizures and other neurological signs occur, including circling when walking, blindness and head pressing. The cause of the disease is unknown. It was first discovered in pugs but has been documented in the Maltese as well and probably occurs in more than these two breeds. The cause is unknown and has not been seen much in the way of treatment recommendations, either. It is possible that corticosteroids may help but this is not a sure thing. At present this disorder is considered to be fatal in most cases. Due to the vaccinations being given on the initial day, there has to be consideration of a possible vaccine reaction. In most cases, vaccine reactions are responsive to corticosteroids. There have been reports of encephalitis associated with vaccination but these are not frequent occurrences. Epileptic seizures do occur in pugs and may show up at any age. Seizure control medications are available and may provide control of the seizures on a lon term basis.

>HD (Hip Dysplasia)-, Legg-Calve Perthes disease, Slipped stiffles or kneecaps (patellar dislocation)

>Sensitive skin- Pugs are prone to having sensitive skin that can often break out in a rash or, in some cases, hives.  Consult your vet about what medications you can give your pug when this happens. 

>An impaction of their anal glands or even infection-Pugs, like all other dogs, have anal glands which produce lubrication for their stool along with coating their stool with a scent.  In small dogs, especially pugs, the anal glands fill with fluid and this fluid must be excreted.  If this fluid is not taken care of it can lead to an impaction of the anal glands or an infection of the anal glands.  It is best to squeeze the anal glands to release this fluid at least once a week or when you notice a sort of metallic scent.  Squeezing the anal glands is rather easy, but very gross and messy.  It is best to do this in the tub right before you bathe your Pug.  The anal glands are very easy to find.  If you place your thumb and forefinger on the sides of your pug’s anus you will feel two ball-like objects.  These are the anal glands.  Gently apply pressure to these glands until the brownish fluid is released.  Afterwards, wash the area with soap and it will take care of the smell and the uncomfortable feeling for your pug.  

>Ear problems- Pugs have a tendency of problems with their ears and will often get infections if they are not cleaned on a regular basis.  It is best to clean your pug’s ears at least every week with a gentle cleansing solution you can pick up at your vet office.  If you notice large amounts of a brown waxy substance, smell, or constant itching of the ear take your pug to the vet to get the proper medicine to take care of the infection.  

>Encephalitis (swelling of the brain)-There is no definitive infection that is linked to this, but is sometimes attributed to their immune system.

 

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