Pug Health Alert - Protect Your Pug Against These Common Conditions

Many dog owners lose their precious Pugs when it could have been easily avoided.

As a Pug parent, you should be well informed of this special breed's common fatal diseases or conditions and their corresponding symptoms.

Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE)

Every Pug owner dreads this disease which is exclusive to this breed. A Pug afflicted with PDE means that its brain has become swollen or inflamed.

Symptoms: Seizures, loss of muscle coordination, pacing in circles, unusually violent behavior (barking and biting), and restlessness are the most obvious symptoms of PDE. Another telltale sign is when they press their head against a hard surface, indicating that they are in agonizing pain. Watch out for these symptoms in Pugs between 2-3 years old. PDE can cause sudden death if not treated at its early stage.

Heatstroke

Pugs are susceptible to heatstroke because of their thick skin. Be on the lookout for these possible signs of heatstroke especially during the summer months.

Symptoms: Rapid breathing, excessive thick saliva or dry mouth, vomiting and loss of balance, are some of the signs of a fatal heatstroke in Pugs. These symptoms along with fever (103 degrees Fahrenheit or 39 degrees Celsius and above) and vividly red tongue and gums confirm that you should bring your Pug to the vet immediately.

Poisoning or Allergy

Probably the most overlooked cause of death in dogs in general is poisoning and allergies. Your Pug could be a victim of poisoning or extreme allergic reactions due to a number of things such as dog food, antifreeze, medications, shampoo, household chemicals, plants or even fabric.

Symptoms: Rush your Pug to the vet if it begins to exhibit breathing difficulty, chronic wheezing or coughing, severe watery eyes, excessive scratching, sudden hair loss or falling hair, vomiting and diarrhea.

Heartworm

A common cause of fatality in Pugs is severe heartworm infestation. This type of parasite is deadly as it invades the major organs which include the heart and lungs. Heartworms can be passed on to dogs through a mosquito bite. It is important to determine the symptoms of severe infestation as it can lead to instant death in Pugs.

Symptoms: Your Pug's stamina or endurance is a good indicator of heartworm infestation. If simple walks in the park or short runs easily wind your pug, it may be a sign of heartworm disease. Irregular breathing sounds coming from the lungs and chronic coughing are likewise strong indicators of heartworm infestation.

Heart Disease or Cardiomyopathy

Anatomically speaking, a Pug is susceptible to heart failure or cardiac arrest. Its squished in face, short nose and tongue and heavy weight are all factors to heart conditions. While a heart failure results in instant death, paying closer attention to earlier symptoms or signs may save your Pug.

Symptoms: Labored breathing, foaming mouth, white or pale gums, loss of appetite, increased heart rate, coughing, loud snoring or snorting, slow or stilted movement, and fainting all point to the onset of a heart failure. Immediate medical attention is needed if your Pug shows these symptoms.

Enjoy long years with your precious Pug by being mindful of your pet's common ailments and symptoms.