Pug Dog Obesity

A portly pug may be at greater risk for health issues.

So your pug may be a bit portly. For many owners, it just adds to the dog's overall charm---especially when you consider those saucer-like eyes and adorable expressions they're so adept at using to encourage people to dole out human food. But obesity in dogs can be just as dangerous as it is for humans, so regular visits to the veterinarian to monitor your pug's weight and overall health are crucial to your pet's well being. You may have to withhold that extra treat, but, ultimately, having a happy and healthy pet is far more rewarding.

Breed Predisposition

Pugs, like certain other smaller breeds, are naturally predisposed to obesity. Astute beggars who simply love to eat copiously, pugs can suck up a dropped bit of food almost as quickly as a vacuum. What's more, these little masters of mastication have an innate lack of interest in exercise or activity, preferring instead to stare plaintively at their owner until he agrees to share his "people food."

Causes of Canine Obesity

While overeating and lack of exercise are by far the most common culprits behind canine obesity (thanks in no small part to overfeeding on the part of their human owners), excess weight may also indicate illness or stress. In some cases, obesity is the result of some type of hormonal disease or imbalance, such as Cushing's disease or hypothyroidism.

Determining Pug Obesity

The scale doesn't lie, yet there are other methods for determining obesity.

The average pug weighs between 14 and 16 pounds, depending on his proportions. Oftentimes, owners don't even notice their pug has packed on the pounds, so the issue often is first mentioned by a visiting friend or relative who doesn't interact with the dog daily. In addition to regular trips to the scale, you can determine if your pug is obese with a few simple techniques. When palpating his sides, for example, you should be able to feel his ribs easily, and when looking down at your pug, you should notice a semblance of a waistline. A sagging or drooping belly is also a good indicator that your pug needs a better diet.

Health Risks

With solid little bodies and stumpy legs, pugs are endearingly dis-proportioned. However, due to their compact nature, weight gain can be particularly strenuous on your pug's body---most notably on his joints and back. Furthermore, fat pugs are more prone to suffer from high blood pressure, respiratory difficulties, hip dysplasia, diabetes, arthritis and even some forms of cancer.

Treatment and Prevention

You may have to cut back on dog treats.

To keep your pug healthy and lean, take care to feed him no more than what's recommended for his age and size and ensure he gets plenty of exercise. Before putting your pet on a diet, however, consult your veterinarian. He will be able to suggest a low-calorie diet, which will likely include specialized dog food and/or homemade meals prepared with lean meats and vegetables, as well as a daily exercise regimen. Of course, pug owners must also have the willpower to ignore their pets' pleas for table scraps and treats in order to facilitate weight loss.

References

• Ugly Mugs Pugs: Obesity
• Pugman: Obesity
• Go Pets America: Pug Health Problems