Pugs are a compact package of energy. They have a small stocky body, curled tail, and a brachycephalic face otherwise referred to as a flat face.

While their physical characteristics give them distinction, they also influence the type of food they should eat and the way you feed them.

A wide bowl with a small rim is the best type of bowl for a Pug. It enables them to eat without pushing pieces of food around with their flat snout. Choosing the proper bowl for your Pug is a good start, however, selecting the proper food for them requires a little more research.

The Pug Diet for Puppies

A puppy of any breed has nutritional needs that are different from an adult dog. Pug puppies are lively and energetic. They should be fed a high quality puppy food that is nutrient-rich and high in protein. Puppy food is higher in calories than adult dog food. A higher calorie food supports their higher metabolic rate.

Puppy Treats

Puppyhood is the time to begin training. Edible treats are often given as rewards during training. It’s important that you keep treats to a minimum so that your puppy doesn’t become overweight.

Small pieces of meat or cheese, vegetables such as carrots and broccoli and fruits such as apples, blueberries, strawberries, and watermelon can be used as treats and rewards for your puppy.

From a nutritional point of view, you should avoid foods such as corn, potatoes, grapes, and citrus fruits. Chocolate, raisins, garlic, onions, avocados, raw or undercooked meat and bones are unsafe for any dog at any age. When uncertain as to the safety of a specific food, always check a reliable source such as the ASPCA list of foods to avoid before feeding questionable foods to your pet.

The Pug Diet for Adults

When deciding what to feed your adult Pug, the best starting point is to rule out the things you should avoid feeding them. Reading a pet food label can help you rule out certain brands of food.

You want to avoid foods that have artificial dyes such as Blue #2, Red #40 and Yellow #5 and #6. You should also refrain from purchasing food for your Pug that contains animal by-products and soy.

Pugs need a high protein diet to sustain their energy level. The complex carbohydrates in their diet should come from sources such as brown rice and sweet potatoes. Complex carbohydrates help provide your Pug with a steady source of energy and protect against spikes in blood sugar.

Skin Conditions

Shedding is a characteristic of Pugs. However, excessive shedding can indicate an allergic reaction to pet food with certain grains such as corn or wheat. If a rash, itching or shedding are issues you’re having with your Pug, you should avoid feeding it foods with corn or wheat and opt for food with grains such as rice, barley, and oats. Omega fatty acids are also essential in maintaining a healthy coat and skin.

Wrapping up

It’s essential to your Pug’s overall health and life expectancy for it to maintain a healthy weight. As its owner, you’re responsible for assuring your dog doesn’t become overweight.

Feeding adequate proportions of high-quality food is one of the best ways to show your love for your Pug. Your dog’s individual metabolism and activity level are factors to consider when determining how much to feed your dog.

If you’re unsure, your veterinarian can assist in finding the proper quantity to feed your Pug. Closely monitoring your dog’s weight, energy levels, and skin condition can serve as a guideline for creating the ideal diet for your dog.