Shelter Dog Meal Donation Count:

Learn More

7 Vital Tips for Grooming a Pug

Written by: Arlene D.
| Published on May 30, 2023

Pugs are adorable, loving dogs known for their short, wrinkled face and charming personality. While they have short coats, pugs still require regular grooming to keep them looking their best. Below are seven essential grooming tips for your Pug:

1. Regular Brushing

Pugs may have short fur, but they are heavy shedders. Regular brushing, at least twice a week, can help control shedding and distribute the natural oils in their skin, promoting a healthier, shinier coat. A grooming mitt or a rubber brush is suitable for a Pug’s coat.

2. Bathing

A monthly bath is usually sufficient for a Pug unless they get especially dirty or have skin problems. Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo to prevent dry skin.

3. Cleaning the Facial Wrinkles

Pugs are famous for their deep facial wrinkles. These wrinkles need daily cleaning to prevent bacterial growth, which can lead to infections. Use a soft, damp cloth, and be sure to dry the wrinkles thoroughly.

4. Nail Trimming

Like all dogs, Pugs need their nails trimmed regularly, usually every 3-4 weeks. Long nails can cause discomfort or even pain. A guillotine-style nail clipper or a grinder can be used for this breed.

This highly rated nail grinder on Amazon makes nail trims a breeze. 

5. Ear Cleaning

Check your Pug’s ears weekly for any signs of redness, irritation, or bad odor which can indicate an infection. Clean them as necessary with a vet-approved ear-cleaning solution.

We like the PetMD brand of ear wipes available on Amazon.

6. Dental Care

Pugs can be prone to dental problems. Brushing their teeth daily with dog toothpaste can help to prevent tartar build-up and promote healthy gums.

For dogs who hate brushing, another good option are these tasty dental chews, available on Amazon. 

7. Eye Care

Pugs have prominent eyes that can be prone to irritation or injury. Wipe around their eyes daily with a soft, damp cloth, and watch out for any signs of redness or discomfort.

Now, let’s answer seven frequently asked questions that you might have when grooming a Pug for the first time:

Q1: How often should I brush my Pug’s coat? A: Pugs should be brushed at least twice a week to control shedding and distribute the skin’s natural oils.

Q2: Can I use human shampoo on my Pug? A: It’s not recommended, as human shampoo can disrupt the pH balance of your Pug’s skin. Always use a shampoo specifically formulated for dogs.

Q3: How often should I bathe my Pug? A: Generally, a bath every 3-4 weeks is sufficient unless your Pug gets particularly dirty.

Q4: How often should I clean my Pug’s ears? A: Check your Pug’s ears weekly and clean them as necessary to prevent infections.

Q5: How can I control my Pug’s shedding? A: Regular brushing helps to control shedding by removing loose hairs. A balanced diet and regular vet check-ups can also help maintain a healthy coat.

Q6: How often should I trim my Pug’s nails? A: Your Pug’s nails should be trimmed every 3-4 weeks depending on their growth rate.

Q7: How often should I clean my Pug’s wrinkles? A: Pug’s facial wrinkles should be cleaned daily to prevent the build-up of bacteria and potential infections.

Grooming your Pug is a great way to bond with your pet while ensuring they stay clean and healthy. With these seven tips, you will be well-prepared to handle your Pug’s grooming needs.

Recent Articles

Interested in learning even more about all things dogs? Get your paws on more great content from iHeartDogs!

Read the Blog