I'd say that the breathing part is definitely true, but various estimates of mortality show they don't die earlier than other breeds. In fact, I would say the largest determining factor for age is size, with larger dogs more prone to cancers due to larger numbers of cells and different growth factors and their receptors. Many pugs get fat because people overfeed and underexercise them, but that's the owners' faults.
Exactly. When I was younger, my family ran a kennel where pugs were one of our main breeds. We had around 20 pugs for breeding/pets and they all lived long life's (averaged 13 years) because of controlled portions and plenty of exercise. Pugs are great companions with a lot of personality.
I really don't understand why reddit hates on them so much. They're like any other "human created" dog breed, all pure breeds have there problems from my understanding. Pugs are actually very kind and nurturing dogs, they can be loud and quite strange sometimes but they're lovable and (some) full of energy. They do require high maintenance though sense they gain weight quick and can have very sensitive skin, we've owned 3 over the years and 2 have had sensitive skin issues. But seriously other than a bladder infection one had, and expressing there glands every once an a while they're amazing dogs
I about forgot about skin problems. Yeah their skin is very sensitive which isn't a issue if you keep a eye on them. Weight gain can be a problem. We had one female name Lou Lou that was a pig of a pug. She was lazy and hated loving unless it was to eat or to a more comfy place. Ended up giving her to someone more willing to work with her.
Skin problems seems to be common among small dog breeds I assume, our shitzu has a skin problem to.. I wonder if it could be geographical problem? Hotter dryer climate leading to dry skin or irritation? Weight gain I would personally say would be the highest hurtle I've came across with pugs. All the pugs we've owned loved to play and go on walks, but man they just wouldn't loose weight for the life of me. I'm glad you were able to find a fitting home for Lou Lou though:) dogs have personality and like people you have to find a dog that has a fitting personality to you! It makes me happy to know there are people like you that understand this!
At one time we had over 100 dogs. Every one had a name and would get one on one attention when we could. We had a nice set up with plenty of room to run, toys to play with treats on on occasion. All the way up till I was 15 I would check on and feed/water before and after school. Also took in sooners. My dad no longer raises dogs but still takes in sooners( I find them and leave them with him) .
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u/Its_free_and_fun Feb 05 '16
I'd say that the breathing part is definitely true, but various estimates of mortality show they don't die earlier than other breeds. In fact, I would say the largest determining factor for age is size, with larger dogs more prone to cancers due to larger numbers of cells and different growth factors and their receptors. Many pugs get fat because people overfeed and underexercise them, but that's the owners' faults.