While it may seem easy, grooming a pug requires you to be aware of breed-specific characteristics and needs. So that the grooming facilitates not just how good a Pug looks but also focuses on their health.
Pugs are a breed originating from China going back as far as 400 BC. Although the pug we know of today is drastically different to their predecessors due to breed requirements as set by the American Kennel Club. Pugs belong to the Brachycephalic breed. They have a short blunt square muzzle with deep and large wrinkles. The shortened muzzle means that their nostrils are narrowed and consequently their airways are also narrowed. Their ears are high set and are either the rose or button type ears with a preference by the AKC for the latter.
Grooming a Pug: Points to Bear in Mind
Grooming a Pug: The Coat
Pugs have a fine, smooth, short and glossy coat which lies flat against the skin. The coat can be fawn, apricot, black or silver. The muzzle, ears, moles on cheeks are deep black in colour. Pugs’ coats are low maintenance but care has to be taken to ensure that they are clean. They tend to pick up dirt and infections easily and as such it is important that a grooming session accommodates these needs.
Grooming a Pug: Standing or Sitting or Lying down?
Pugs tend towards obesity which will impact on their ability to be standing during an entire grooming session. They are predisposed to hip dysplasia and degenerative joint disease such as arthritis. Hence it is important to bear this in mind when it comes to grooming senior Pugs. It’s best to let the dog lead on this. If they want to sit or lie down while being groomed then work around it.
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome [BOAS]
Pugs are predisposed to an illness called the Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome [BOAS] because of their flat faces that can make it difficult to breathe. It’s important to ensure that the Pug being groomed is not too excited, stressed or is in an hot environment.
Skin Allergies/Infections in Pugs
Pugs are prone to skin allergies and infections nearly 11 times more than any other breed. Since they tend to pick up dirt and debris in the folds of their skin especially the wrinkles on their face it is important to clean these areas well.
Grooming a Pug: Ear Cleaning
Pugs are also prone to ear infections. Regular grooming will ensure that ear cleaning is attended to. As well as one would be able to spot an ear infection that is just starting.
Grooming a Pug: Dental Hygiene
Pugs have the same number of teeth as other dogs but due to their flattened face and short muzzle the teeth tend to be crowded in. This can lead to a build up of bacteria and plaque leading to teeth degeneration. One of the ways of combating this is through teeth cleaning during a grooming session. Extra care has to be taken to ensure that all the teeth are thoroughly cleaned and any massive build up of plaque is brought to the attention of the pet parent. So that professional plaque removal can be accessed with a vet.
Pug Eye Cleaning
Pugs are predisposed to eye problems including excessive tear production, dry eye, eye discharge, inflammation, tear staining to name a few. This is because of the breeding requirements that expects large, bold, globular eyes leading to an inability to blink properly [https://focusreferrals.co.uk/information-sheets/the-problem-with-pugs-eyes]. Hence attention needs to be paid to eye cleaning which has to be gentle with the groomer looking out for any signs of bubbling issues.
To Sum Up
In summary while it seems that grooming a pug is probably one of the easier grooming sessions it isn’t so. This is because care has to be taken to incorporate the specific needs the Pug breed has with regard to its predisposition to several illnesses. A grooming session designed specifically for a Pug will then ensure not just that your Pug comes out looking beautiful but also ensure that the well being of your Pug is being monitored regularly and specific needs are attended to.
Pawpad offers dog grooming sessions designed to be breed specific. We groom by appointment only. You can book yours by chatting with us on whatsapp below or call us at 9663077496 to book your appointment.