Pugs, with their wrinkled faces, big expressive eyes, and compact, muscular bodies, have charmed their way into the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. These affectionate and playful companions are known for their friendly demeanor and love for human interaction. However, behind their adorable appearance lies a breed prone to several health issues, some of which can be life - threatening. One of the most pressing questions for pug owners and enthusiasts is, “What is the leading cause of death in pugs?” In this comprehensive blog, we will delve into this topic, exploring the primary health concerns that affect pugs and how incorporating a dog runner treadmill into their routine can contribute to their overall health and potentially extend their lifespan.

Key Takeaways

• Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is the top reason pugs die. It makes it hard for them to breathe and live long.

• Keeping your pug at a healthy weight is important. Regular exercise helps stop problems like heart disease and joint pain.

• A dog runner treadmill is a safe way to exercise. It gives low-impact workouts that help your pug’s heart, lungs, and joints.

• Look for signs of health problems. These include coughing, trouble breathing, or walking strangely. Talk to your vet early if you see these signs.

• Mixing exercise with a good diet, dental care, and cleaning wrinkles helps your pug stay healthy and happy.

Understanding the Pug Breed and Their Health Challenges

Pugs are cute pets, but they have special health problems that can shorten their lives. One big issue is obesity. This can cause many health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and joint pain. As a pug owner, you need to know how extra weight affects your dog's health.

Here are some common health problems that pugs have:

• Pugs often deal with serious, long-lasting spinal diseases, especially in the back area.

• Common spinal issues include:

  • Constrictive myelopathy

  • Spinal arachnoid diverticula (SAD)

  • Chronic intervertebral disc protrusions

  • Meningeal fibrosis

• Many pugs have several spinal problems at once, making it hard to diagnose and treat.

• Unlike French bulldogs, pugs are more affected by long-term spinal diseases than sudden disc issues.

• Genetic reasons may play a role in the different spinal problems in pugs.

Also, about 31% of pugs walk in an unusual way. This can be linked to bone and nerve problems. Walking issues can include limping, ataxia (poor coordination), and weakness. These problems usually get worse as they age and can start as early as two years old.

Keeping a healthy weight is very important for your pug's health. Regular activity can help stop obesity and its related health problems. You can get your pug to do fun exercises, like walks or playtime, to help with weight loss and boost their fitness.

By taking care of your pug's health, you can help them live a longer and happier life.

The Leading Cause of Death in Pugs

Cardiovascular Disease in Pugs

Cardiovascular disease is a big health problem for pugs. This breed often has different heart issues that can cause serious problems. Common heart issues are congestive heart failure and heart murmurs. These problems usually happen because of obesity and genetics.

As a pug owner, you need to know the symptoms of heart problems. Watch for signs like:

• Coughing

• Trouble breathing

• Tiredness during exercise

• Swollen belly

If you see any of these signs, talk to your vet right away. Finding problems early can help your pug's quality of life and how long they live.

A study looked at the records of 691 pugs that died over ten years. It found that Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) was the top cause of death, making up 8.2% of deaths. The study showed that breathing and nerve problems linked to their flat faces greatly affect how long pugs live. This shows why it’s important to be aware and take good care of them.

Respiratory Complications as a Contributing Factor

Breathing problems are another big worry for pugs. The main breathing issue for this breed is Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). This problem comes from their flat faces and short noses, which makes it hard for them to breathe.

Other common breathing issues are:

• Spontaneous torsion of the left cranial lung lobe

• Chronic bronchitis

• Pneumonia

These problems can really hurt your pug's quality of life. Surgery might help with some symptoms, but it doesn’t always work. So, keeping your pug at a healthy weight and making sure they get regular exercise is very important.

Statistics show that pugs usually live shorter lives than other small dog breeds. Their lifespans are about 7.65 to 11.6 years, which is less than the average for purebred dogs. This shorter life can be due to health problems like obesity and breathing issues.

Other Significant Health Concerns in Pugs

Pugs have many health problems besides Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) and heart disease. Knowing about these issues helps you take better care of your pet.

Obesity - Related Issues

Obesity is a common issue for pugs. It can cause serious health problems like diabetes, joint pain, and heart disease. To fight obesity, you should watch what your pug eats and make sure they exercise regularly. Here are some health problems linked to obesity:

• Diabetes: Extra weight can cause insulin resistance, leading to diabetes.

• Joint Problems: Extra weight puts pressure on joints, causing arthritis and movement issues.

• Heart Disease: Obesity raises the risk of heart problems, which can shorten your pug's life.

Neurological Disorders

Pugs can also have neurological disorders, with Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE) being one of the worst. This condition affects the brain and can cause serious symptoms. Here’s a summary of PDE:

If you see any symptoms, talk to your vet right away for a proper diagnosis and care.

Eye Problems

Pugs often have eye problems because of their unique face shape. Common issues include:

• Corneal Ulcers: These painful injuries can cause vision loss if not treated.

• Dry Eye: Not enough tears cause inflammation and discomfort.

• Entropion: This condition makes the eyelids roll inward, causing irritation.

These eye problems can greatly affect your pug's quality of life. Regular vet visits can help find these issues early.

Regular exercise is very important for your pug's health. It helps control weight, lowers stress, and improves movement. Doing daily activities keeps your pug happy and healthy, which improves their quality of life.

The Role of Exercise in Preventing Premature Death in Pugs

Regular exercise is very important for your pug's life. It helps keep their weight healthy, supports their heart, improves how they breathe, and makes them feel better mentally. Here’s how controlled exercise helps your pug:

Benefits of Controlled Exercise

Weight Management:Keeping your pug at a healthy weight is key. Regular activity burns calories and stops obesity. This lowers the chance of serious health problems like diabetes and joint pain.

Heart Health:Exercise makes your pug's heart stronger. A strong heart pumps blood well, which is important for good health. Regular activity can lower the risk of heart diseases, which are common in pugs.

Respiratory Function:Good breathing is very important for pugs. Controlled exercise can help their lungs work better and make it easier for them to breathe. This is especially important for pugs with Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS).

Mental Well-being:Exercise helps not just the body but also your pug's mood. Regular activity cuts down on anxiety and boredom, making your pet happier and more balanced.

Exercise Guidelines for Pugs

To keep your pug safe while exercising, follow these tips:

1. Don’t let puppies under 10 months exercise too much to protect their growth.

2. Wait one hour after eating before exercising to avoid bloat.

3. Stop exercising right away if your pug has trouble breathing because of their flat face.

4. Avoid exercising in hot or humid weather to prevent heat stress.

5. Aim for at least two 20-minute light to moderate cardio sessions each day, changing the time and frequency based on health and weather.

6. Use a harness instead of a collar to protect their airway and lessen pressure on their windpipe.

7. Bring water for breaks every 15-20 minutes during exercise.

8. Don’t take puppies to public places for exercise until they are fully vaccinated (12-14 months).

9. Good exercise types include controlled walks and fun activities like fetch.

By following these tips, you can help your pug enjoy the many health benefits of regular exercise. This proactive approach can greatly improve their quality of life and how long they live.

How Dog Running machine Can Help Pugs Stay Healthy

Using a dog runner treadmill can really help your pug's health. Here are some important benefits:

Controlled Environment

A dog runner treadmill lets you exercise your pug in a safe place. You can choose how fast and how long they work out. This is great during bad weather. You can make sure your pug gets enough exercise without worrying about rain, snow, or heat.

Low-Impact Exercise

Treadmills offer low-impact exercise, which is very important for pugs. Their bodies can have joint problems. A dog runner treadmill helps your pug stay active without hurting their joints. This helps keep them at a healthy weight and lowers the chance of obesity-related health issues.

Temperature Regulation

Keeping the right temperature is important for pugs because of their flat faces. Dog runner treadmills can be used inside, where you can control the temperature. Keeping the area cool and comfy stops them from getting too hot while exercising. Aim for a temperature between 20–24 °C and humidity levels between 30–60% to keep your pug safe while they work out.

Monitoring and Safety

Safety is very important when using a treadmill. Always watch your pug while they exercise. Use a harness to keep them secure and be ready to stop the treadmill if needed. Keep an eye on their heart rate and breathing. If your pug seems upset, stop the session right away.

Vets recommend limiting treadmill time to 20 minutes. This helps avoid discomfort or injury. Training your pug to use the treadmill should be fun. Start with short sessions and slowly make them longer as they get used to it.

By adding a dog runner treadmill to your pug's routine, you can help them stay active and healthy. Regular exercise is key for their overall well-being.

Introducing Your Pug to a Dog Runner Treadmill

Getting your pug used to a dog runner treadmill can be fun. Here are some steps to make it easy and enjoyable for both of you.

Familiarization:Start by letting your pug check out the treadmill when it’s off. Let them sniff and look at the machine. This helps them feel less scared or unsure about it. Use treats and praise to make them like the treadmill.

Short Sessions:Keep the sessions short at first. Brief workouts help avoid tiredness, especially since pugs can have trouble with exercise. As your pug gets more comfortable, slowly increase the session length and speed over a few weeks.

Monitor Comfort:Always watch your pug closely during treadmill time. Look for signs of discomfort or tiredness, like heavy panting or lagging behind. If you see any signs of distress, stop the session right away. Make sure your pug has a bathroom break before exercising to avoid accidents.

Consistency:Set up a regular training schedule over several weeks. Practicing often helps your pug get used to the treadmill and builds their confidence. Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior, like staying on the treadmill until you say they can stop.

By following these steps, you can help your pug enjoy treadmill exercise safely and effectively. Remember, being patient and using positive reinforcement are important to overcome any challenges during this process.

Combining Treadmill Exercise with Other Health Practices

Balanced Diet:A balanced diet is very important for your pug's health. Studies show that mixing more exercise, like treadmill workouts, with a good diet leads to better health. Focus on feeding your pug food that has less energy but more protein and fiber. This helps them feel full and keeps their body healthy. By giving your pug the right nutrients, you help them lose weight and improve their health.

Dental Care:Taking care of your pug's teeth is key for their overall health. Pugs often have dental problems because of their flat faces and crowded teeth. Here are some important things to remember:

• Regular vet visits can stop plaque and gum disease.

• Brush your pug's teeth daily with dog-safe toothpaste to keep their mouth clean.

• Watch for signs like bad breath or swollen gums, as catching problems early is important.

• Dental treats and chew toys can help keep their teeth healthy.

By making dental care a regular habit, you can greatly improve your pug's health and how long they live.

Wrinkle Care:Taking care of your pug's wrinkles is important to avoid health issues. Studies show that pugs can get skin infections in their folds. Here’s how to care for your pug’s wrinkles:

• Keep the wrinkles clean and dry to stop dirt and moisture from building up.

• Clean the folds regularly to remove anything that might cause infections.

• Watch for signs of irritation, like redness or bad smells, and see a vet if needed.

By keeping the area clean, you lower the chance of infections and help your pug's skin stay healthy.

Temperature Control:Controlling the temperature is very important for your pug's safety when they exercise. Here are some tips to remember:

• Walk your pug during cooler times, like early morning or evening.

• Always give them fresh, cool water while exercising.

• Make shaded areas or cool spots at home to help your pug cool off.

• Never leave your pug in a parked car, as it can get very hot quickly.

By following these tips, you can help prevent heat-related problems and keep your pug comfortable while they exercise.

The leading cause of death in pugs is cardiovascular disease, closely followed by respiratory complications. These issues are often exacerbated by obesity, which is common in the breed. By providing regular, controlled exercise, along with proper diet and veterinary care, owners can significantly improve their pug's quality of life and reduce the risk of premature death.​

A dog runner treadmill is an excellent tool for ensuring pugs get the exercise they need in a safe, controlled environment. It allows for consistent exercise regardless of weather conditions, helps manage weight, and strengthens the heart and respiratory systems. When used correctly, in conjunction with other health practices, a treadmill can play a vital role in extending a pug's lifespan.​

As pug owners, it is our responsibility to understand their unique health needs and take proactive steps to keep them healthy. By incorporating a dog runner treadmill into their routine, along with regular veterinary care and a balanced lifestyle, we can help our beloved pugs live longer, happier lives. Remember, a healthy pug is a happy pug, and every step we take to care for them is a step towards more precious years together.