Pugs are one of the most popular dog breeds among both owners and veterinarians. However, this doesn’t mean that they are invulnerable. In fact, they are as fragile and sensitive as any other member of the canine family. Like other small-breed dogs, pugs are particularly vulnerable to certain health issues that may develop at any point in their lifetimes. They can suffer from the same illnesses as bigger dogs, but because of their size and specific anatomy, they might experience them differently or at a more intense degree. A pug’s health problems can occur at any age, and the likelihood of contracting them increases the older they get. Here we look at some of the most common health issues affecting pugs - ones that should be kept in mind by prospective owners, as well as vets who may be treating them.

Gastric ulcers

Pugs are one of those dog breeds that can develop gastric ulcers, which are chronic ulcers in the stomach wall. These ulcers can be triggered by many factors, including stress, diet and environmental changes, and infections that are commonly found in dogs. Pugs that suffer from ulcers will experience frequent bouts of diarrhea and vomiting, and they will have few or no appetite. The condition can be treated with antacids and antibiotics, or by surgically removing the ulcers and their surrounding tissues. If left untreated, gastric ulcers in pugs can cause death due to complications such as peritonitis, a serious infection of the abdominal cavity.

Cranial Crucifix Syndrome

The condition is also known by several names, including “Cranial Cruciate Syndrome” or “Cranial Sagittal Abnormality Syndrome.” This syndrome is a group of disorders that cause the head to be misaligned with the spinal column. It is a very rare condition that affects only a few dogs each year, although there is a debate regarding its prevalence due to the lack of diagnosis. The syndrome affects the skull, the spine and the muscles that connect them, so pugs that suffer from it will present with a head that is not in line with the rest of the body. This can result in a variety of problems, including lack of coordination and balance, partial or full blindness, a condition known as “dishing”, and a constant whining. The exact cause of this syndrome is still unknown, but many vets believe that it is triggered by other diseases, such as heart disease and infections, or by trauma.

Cervical spondylomyelopathy

Cervical spondylomyelopathy, or CSM, is another condition that affects the spine of the dog, and it is a degenerative disease that can affect their ability to move and, in the most severe cases, lead to paralysis. This disease is particularly common in older pugs, and it is not yet fully understood how it is triggered. There are, however, some risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing the disease, such as breeding close relatives, being part of a large breeding population or being fed a diet rich in certain minerals. There is no known cure for CSM, and the only way to prevent the progression of the disease is by closely monitoring your pug and providing appropriate treatment.

Urinary Stones

Urinary tract infections can be triggered by diet changes and environmental factors, but they can also occur due to other health issues, such as hyperactive behavior in young pugs. The most common form of urinary tract infections in dogs is commonly referred to as “cystitis”, or the presence of bacteria in the urinary bladder. If left untreated, these infections can develop into urinary tract stones, which are small, hard concretions that can cause intense pain, especially when urinating. The best way to prevent these infections is by feeding your pug a high-quality diet and by providing him with plenty of exercise, as it is one of the most common causes of recurring infections.

Deafness

Like humans, some dogs can suffer from severe and permanent hearing loss. There are various causes of hearing loss in dogs, but the most common one is old age. Pugs are particularly prone to this condition, and it is estimated that 25% of pugs over the age of 10 suffer from some degree of hearing loss. This can be very serious and even lead to euthanasia, so it is important that owners keep an eye out for signs of hearing loss, such as a reluctance to go outside, or sudden withdrawal from noise. There are several ways to treat hearing loss in dogs, including ear cleaning, antibiotic therapy, and surgical procedures.

Strabismus

Strabismus is commonly known as “cross-eyes”, and it is a condition that causes one eye to drift towards the other. This can be a very serious condition, as it can cause the dog to become disoriented and experience difficulties in finding its way around. It can also make it more difficult for the dog to see objects or people, and it can cause eye discharge and discomfort. There are several causes of strabismus, including infections, trauma, and metabolic diseases, but it is often triggered by other diseases, such as hydrocephalus. In some cases, strabismus can be corrected surgically, although the recovery period can be long and painful. To prevent this condition from developing, it is important to feed your dog a balanced and nutritious diet, and to provide him with plenty of exercise.

Conclusion

Overall, pugs are a very sweet and affectionate breed that can bring joy and happiness to their owners. They are extremely social, and they can thrive in an active household. However, they are also fragile and sensitive, and they need constant attention and care. They are prone to a number of conditions, some of which can be treated, while others are fatal. It is important to be informed about the health of your pug, and to seek a vet’s advice when something seems off.