🐾 5 Tips to Keep Your Pug Healthy

🐾 5 Tips to Keep Your Pug Healthy

🐾 5 Tips to Keep Your Pug Healthy

A Story About Teddy 🤍

Updated: 2026

Hi, my name is Teddy 🐶

I was a pug full of personality, a little bit stubborn, and always full of love.

This is my story.

And even though I’m no longer here, my journey is the reason PupMasters exists today.

🐶 Teddy’s Story

When my parents first picked me up, life didn’t start as easily as it should have.

Before I even went to my forever home, I had already been bitten by another dog. That experience made me scared, unsure, and anxious around other dogs.

But my parents never gave up on me.

They worked with trainers and behaviourists to help me build confidence again. Slowly, I learned that not all dogs were scary… and that life could be full of friends, playtime, and adventures.

💔 Health Challenges Along the Way

As I grew older, things became more complicated.

At just 8 months old, I started having breathing issues, reverse sneezing, choking, and eventually collapsing because I couldn’t get enough air.

That’s when my parents made one of the hardest decisions.

I had BOAS surgery (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) before I was even 1 year old.

The surgery helped me breathe better, and I could finally enjoy life a little more. But that wasn’t the end of my journey.

🫁 Ongoing Breathing Problems

Even after surgery, I would cough after playing or running.

Later, we discovered I also had a collapsed trachea, a common condition in small breeds like pugs.

That meant:

  • Regular vet visits

  • Medication and inhalers

  • Careful monitoring every single day

🌡️ Sensitivity to Weather

Like many pugs, I struggled with temperature:

  • Too hot → I would overheat quickly

  • Too cold → I would get sick

My parents always carried my “Teddy Bag”:

  • Water

  • Cooling spray

  • Clothes for all weather

  • Snacks (my favourite part 😄)

🐾 Other Health Issues

Over time, there were many challenges:

  • Skin allergies

  • Eye scratches

  • Ear infections

  • Hip problems

  • Weight fluctuations

But through it all, I stayed happy.

Because I was loved.

🤍 A Life Full of Love

Even though my health wasn’t always the best, I was incredibly lucky.

I had a family who cared deeply, who showed up for me every single day, and who would do anything to make sure I was safe, comfortable, and happy.

In 2025, I crossed the rainbow bridge 🌈

But my story didn’t end there.

It became the foundation of PupMasters, a brand built with love, care, and the goal of helping other dogs live happier, healthier lives.

🐶 5 Tips to Keep Your Pug Healthy

If you have a pug (or any flat-faced breed), these tips can make a huge difference.

1️⃣ Keep Your Pug Slim

Pugs gain weight easily, and extra weight puts pressure on their airway.

This is especially important for dogs with:

  • breathing issues

  • collapsed trachea

  • BOAS

Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce:

  • breathing difficulties

  • heart problems

  • joint issues

👉 Always consult your vet for the best diet.

2️⃣ Monitor Temperature Carefully

Pugs are very sensitive to heat and cold.

Because of their short muzzle, they can struggle to regulate temperature.

Tips:

  • Walk early morning or late evening

  • Avoid hot surfaces

  • Never leave your dog in a car

  • Always carry water

Signs of heatstroke:

  • Heavy panting

  • Drooling

  • Vomiting

  • Weakness

🚨 If you notice these signs go to a vet immediately.

3️⃣ Use a Harness (Not a Collar)

This is extremely important.

Using a collar puts pressure on your dog’s neck and airway.

A harness helps:

  • reduce strain on the trachea

  • prevent breathing complications

  • improve comfort during walks

👉 This is especially important for pugs and brachycephalic breeds.

4️⃣ Keep Them Clean

Pugs require regular cleaning due to:

  • skin folds

  • floppy ears

Check regularly:

  • ears (for infection or smell)

  • wrinkles (for dirt and moisture)

Keeping them clean helps prevent:

  • skin infections

  • ear infections

  • irritation

5️⃣ Keep Them Active (But Don’t Overdo It)

Pugs love to play  but they can overexert easily.

Balance is key:

  • Daily walks (30–60 minutes)

  • Playtime

  • Mental stimulation

Avoid:

  • over-exercising

  • long runs in heat

🐾 Final Words

Teddy’s story is not uncommon.

Many pugs face similar challenges  but with the right care, attention, and love, they can still live beautiful, happy lives.

This blog is not just advice.

It’s a reminder.

To slow down.
To pay attention.
And to give our dogs the best life we possibly can.

🤍 With Love,

Teddy

Forever part of PupMasters 🐶