How to Groom a Pug's Face

A Pug's face is distinctive due to its flat nature and wrinkles. While other breeds have longer snouts, the Pug's face possesses a very short snout that is almost flush with the rest of the face. As a result, the eyes bulge slightly and are less protected. The Pug's shortened snout can lead to breathing difficulties. While most Pugs live long, healthy lives, it's important to groom their faces properly to protect against the vulnerabilities of their noses, ears, mouths and eyes.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Soft cloth
• Water
• Petroleum jelly
• Dog toothbrush
• Dog toothpaste
• Dog shampoo
• Blunt scissors

1. Clean between your Pug's facial folds three times a week. Use a warm, wet cloth and wipe between each wrinkle. Remove food particles, dirt, facial discharge and other debris. Continue wiping the wet cloth between the wrinkles until no gunk is present on the cloth.

2. Apply a light layer of petroleum jelly between your Pug's facial folds. This lubricates and protects the area, as it may be a bit sensitive from the cleaning.

3. Wipe a cloth along the exterior of your Pug's ears once a week. Do not reach inside the ears, as you may damage the eardrums.

4. Brush your Pug's teeth once a week. Use a toothbrush and toothpaste designed for dogs. This keeps tartar and other periodontal diseases at bay.

5. Shampoo the top of your Pug's head to clean the fur there. Keep the shampoo away from your dog's face and instead focus on the top of his head. Use a shampoo designed for dogs since human shampoo can irritate a dog's skin.

6. Clip long hairs around your Pug's eyes, nose and mouth. Occasionally, Pugs experience long hairs in the facial area which can interfere with breathing, seeing or eating. Have a friend hold your dog's head steady while you clip errant hairs.

Tips & Warnings

• Start grooming your Pug's face when she is a puppy so she'll be accustomed to the cleanings.
• Avoid getting water in your Pug's ears when you bathe him. Pugs are particularly prone to ear infections.