A healthy pug is well-fed, well-exercised, and receives regular medical care. These pugs have shiny coats, bright eyes, and playful personalities. They are able to run, jump, and play without difficulty. On the other hand, an unhealthy pug may have dull fur, sunken eyes, and a lethargic demeanor. They may struggle with weight issues, respiratory problems, or other health concerns. Keep reading to get a detailed comparison between a healthy pug and an unhealthy pug.
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Healthy Pug
Pugs are known for their playful and energetic personalities and make excellent companions when they are well taken care of. Therefore, it is important to feed them a balanced diet to meet their nutritional needs. Similarly, they require regular exercise to ensure a healthy weight and keep their muscles strong.
Regular visits to the vet are also crucial for maintaining your pug’s health, as they can help catch any potential issues early on. Early diagnosis can go a long way in offering your pup a happy and healthy life.
Unhealthy Pug
Dull fur, sunken eyes, and lethargic demeanor are some of the distinguishing characteristics of unwell pugs. Lack of proper nutrition and necessary medical attention are often the culprits for serious health concerns, like respiratory problems and weight gain.
Unhealthy pugs may not have the energy or appetite they should have and will be prone to illness. By neglecting the care of your pug, you put their health and well-being at risk. It is important to remember that as a pet owner, you have a responsibility to provide for the needs of your pug.
Differences Between Healthy Pug and Unhealthy Pug
The following are some of the marked differences between healthy and unhealthy pugs.
| Characteristics | Healthy Pug | Unhealthy Pug |
| Coat | Shiny | Dull |
| Eyes | Clear, bright, and shiny | Teary, sunken, and caked in eye gunk |
| Ears | Clean without any dirt and wax | Dirty and waxy with signs of earworms |
| Nose | Damp and cool to touch | Dry and warm |
| Jaw | Pink jaw with well-spaced teeth | Pale or inflamed gums with tightly packed teeth |
| Skull | Head size is proportional to the body | The head is either too large, too flat, or too wide |
| Behavior | Playful and friendly | Lethargic and tired |
Similarities Between Healthy Pug and Unhealthy Pug
Although there are many differences between a healthy pug and an unhealthy pug, there are also some similarities between the two.
Body Type – Both healthy and unhealthy pugs are small, short-haired breeds with distinctive wrinkled faces and curled tails.
Health Issues – Both types of pugs can be prone to certain health issues, such as breathing problems and eye issues, due to the shape of their face and skull.
Food and Exercise Needs – Both healthy and unhealthy pugs need proper nutrition, exercise, and medical care to thrive.
Personality – In terms of personality, both healthy and unhealthy pugs are known for being loyal, affectionate, and playful. However, an unhealthy pug may not have the energy or enthusiasm of a healthy pug due to poor health.
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Signs Your Pug is Healthy
Some of the distinctive signs of healthy pugs are listed below.
- Shiny Coat – A healthy pug will have a smooth, shiny coat that is free of tangles or mats.
- Bright Eyes – Healthy pugs will have bright, clear eyes without any discharge or redness.
- Good Appetite – A healthy pug will be eager to eat and make some noise at dinner time.
- Regular Bowel Movements – Healthy pugs will produce firm, well-formed stools.
- Good Energy Levels – Healthy pugs will be able to run, play, and interact with you without difficulty.
Signs Your Pug is Unhealthy
Some common signs of an unhealthy pug are as follows.
- Dull Coat – An unhealthy pug has a dull, dry coat that lacks shine.
- Sunken Eyes – Unhealthy pugs have sunken eyes, which can be a sign of dehydration or illness.
- Lack of Appetite – An unhealthy pug may not eat at all and it can be a massive sign that your pup needs medical attention.
- Irregular Bowel Movements – Unhealthy pugs may produce loose or runny stools.
- Lethargic Behavior – An unhealthy pug is more tired and inactive than usual, lacking the energy and playfulness of a healthy pug.
- Frequent Illness – If your pug is frequently sick or prone to infections, it may be a sign of poor health.
Common Health Issues with Pugs
Pugs are small, stocky dogs that are prone to certain health issues. Some common health issues with pugs include:
Breathing problems
Pugs have flat faces and short noses which can cause respiratory issues. They may struggle to breathe in hot or humid weather, and they may snore or have difficulty panting.
Eye Issues
Pugs are prone to eye problems, such as dry eye, eye infections, and eye injuries. They may also develop cherry eye, a condition where the gland in the eye becomes swollen and protrudes.
Skin Issues
Pugs may develop skin allergies or irritations, which can cause itching, redness, and hair loss.
Orthopedic issues
Pugs may develop joint problems, such as hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia, which can cause pain and difficulty moving.
Obesity:
Pugs are prone to obesity, which can lead to other health issues such as diabetes, heart problems, and joint problems.
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take your pug to the vet for a check-up. Early detection and treatment of health issues can help improve your pug’s quality of life.
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