Puggle Introduction
Adding a new furry family member to your home is exciting for all ages. With a new dog comes new memories, activities, and responsibilities. If it’s your first time owning a dog, this can be an exciting and nerve-wracking change. It’s no secret some adjustments need to be made once a dog joins your family. Knowing what to expect from the breed, you plan to adopt is the best way to make this transition as smooth and seamless as possible.
The Puggle mixed breed is a great breed to consider adopting for both new and experienced dog owners. Homes with children or other canine companions are a great setting for Puggle puppies and adults as they are very friendly with both kids and dogs. Puggle puppies and adults are very welcoming to strangers. If you regularly have visitors at your house, you won’t have to worry about your Puggle scaring them off.
The Puggle is a mixed breed with Pug and Beagle parents. This mixed-breed is considered the best of both worlds. They have the laid back and go with the flow personality of their Pug parent. Pugs are known for breathing problems due to their short snout, but a Puggle’s Beagle genes eliminate this concern. They generally inherit a longer Beagle nose, and with that comes the ability to breathe better.
Puggles are a relatively active breed. They are happy to follow you around the house, play fetch or tug of war, and go for walks. To remain healthy, Puggle puppies and adults typically need around 30 minutes of exercise per day, though jogging isn’t their forte. If agility training interests you, a Puggle is the perfect partner to take you up on this task. Puggle puppies and adults love fun activities, especially ones they can do alongside their human family members.
These dogs are small but not tiny, making them ideal for living in an apartment or home with small children. They are active enough to keep up with young family members, but you don’t have to worry about them causing an accident while playing, given their smaller size.
Puggle puppies and adults are not hypoallergenic, but they also aren’t known for excessive shedding. Compared to other breeds, you will spend much less time cleaning up dog hair around your house when you own a Puggle. What do Puggle owners love most about this breed? Puggle owners love their adaptability, unique personalities, and ease of care.
Whether you live in a hot or cold climate, your Puggle will be able to adjust. Puggle puppies and adults do just fine in both high and low temperatures. Being left alone for extended periods throughout the day isn’t preferred by Puggle puppies or adults, but they can tolerate doing so. Given their ability to live in an apartment and be alone when needed, they are an ideal dog for young working dogs or those living in bigger cities.
Puggle puppies and adults love to explore their environment. With their strong Beagle sense of smell, you may find that they wander off more than some other breeds. It’s important to keep an eye on your Puggle when they are off-leash and in an open area as they may accidentally wander a little too far away.
One unique thing that Puggle owners love about this breed is how loving and gentle they are. If you are looking for a Puggle to snuggle up with after a long day of work, they are happy to fill the job. Puggle puppies and adults will gladly lay down with your children as they read before bed and cover them with kisses.
Puggle puppies and adults are known to be howlers. They can be very vocal, and if barking or howling is an issue, a Puggle may not be the best breed for you to adopt. Not all Puggle puppies or adults will be constantly vocal, and it’s important to remember that you can manage this behavior through training. People with noise restriction environments may not be the best fit for a Puggle home.
Digging can be another potential concern for future Puggle owners. Once again, this breed is known for a strong sense of smell, passed down from their Beagle parent. This strong nose can lead them to discover items hidden under grass and dirt, causing them to dig. This behavior can be avoided through training and keeping an eye on them outdoors, though it can be concerning for prospective Puggle owners.
Knowing what to expect before adopting Puggle puppies or adults is the best way to determine if this is the right breed for you.
Puggle History
Puggle puppies and adults were created sometime in the 1980s or 1990s, and since then, they have gained massive popularity, with good reason. With any mixed breed, origins can be fuzzy and hard to trace, and this is somewhat of the case with the Puggle mixed breed. This breed is loving, good in various environments, and just flat-out adorable. These dogs have always been household pets, though the same can’t be said about their Beagle parent breed.
The origin of the Beagle breed isn’t very clear, but there are some promising theories. From as early as 400 B.C., Greek documents describe similar dogs that may have been the Beagle breed or an ancestor breed. Many say that Beagles descended from the Talbot hounds brought by William the Conqueror over to England during the Norman Conquest in 1066. Others believed that they may have descended from rabbit-hunting hounds brought to England by the Romans.
Wherever they descended from, the modern Beagle breed that we know and love today dates back to the mid-1800s when Reverend Phillip Honeywood created them in Essex to be hunting dogs. Beagles became smaller to hunt rabbits when they were finally brought over to America. Now Beagles are typically household dogs, though their hunting instincts and hound blood still shine through to this day.
On the other hand, Pugs seem to have a much more well-understood history and origin. They weren’t believed to have ever been working dogs but rather dogs commonly known and loved by royalty worldwide. The Pug breed found its beginning in China and was a prized possession of Chinese Emperors. Modern pugs are believed to have descended from dogs that were imported to Europe from China during the 16th century. They even became the official dog of the House of Orange after a Pug reportedly warned Prince Williams of Orange of approaching Spaniards in 1572. Later, the British found pugs when they took over the Chinese Imperial palace in 1860, which were brought back to England with them. Just a year later, Pugs gained mass popularity in the country and were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885.
Puggle puppies and adults became widely available in 2000, and in just two short decades their popularity has skyrocketed. This breed isn’t recognized by the American Kennel Club, as this organization only recognizes pure-breeds, but Puggle puppies and adults are recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club as their own breed. Some people are surprised that the Puggle’s exact history isn’t known, but it can be difficult to pinpoint the exact first offspring of any mixed breed. Mixed-breeds can be created accidentally or on purpose, which can be difficult to trace. This seems to be the case for the Puggle along with many other dogs. Either way, we are glad they came to be.
Puggle Intelligence
Puggle puppies and adults are very smart dogs. This intelligence is likely inherited from their Beagle parent breed. Beagles are extremely smart dogs with strong senses and instincts that were developed through hunting. They can smell potential prey or food from very far away and are always eager to explore.
Despite their high intelligence levels, Puggle puppies and adults are not very eager to please their owners like some other breeds that are known for being smart. They like to do what pleases them and aren’t very interested in pleasing others, though this can vary by individual dog.
Neither the Pug nor Beagle parent breed is known for being easy to train, meaning that Puggle puppies and adults may not be either. When working with your Puggle to learn new tricks or behaviors, as well as household rules, positive reinforcements are a huge help with this process. Treats, playing and praise can all help you teach your Puggle new things promptly. The best thing to remember when training a Puggle is to avoid harsh words or behaviors. Stubbornness when training can be frustrating, but Puggle puppies and adults won’t respond well to negative treatment. Remember to be patient and reward your Puggle greatly for wanted behaviors. With this strategy, you can have your Puggle sitting, laying down, and even running an agility course. Practice makes perfect, and this is the truth even when training your Puggle to do new things. Their intelligence just might surprise you in these situations.
Puggle Cognitive Health
Cognitive health is a very important part of overall health, especially as dogs age. Healthy cognitive functioning allows dogs and humans to do the things that they love and spend quality time with their families. Just like with humans, Puggle puppies and adults may lose cognitive functioning as they age. This is an important thing to look out for as they grow older. We all want our dogs to live forever, so watching them age can be a very difficult experience. Being informed on the signs of cognitive health issues and learning how to prevent them is the best way to make sure your Puggle is living a fulfilling and very happy life, even in their senior years.
Canine Dementia
Cognitive health issues are rarely seen in Puggle puppies. Canine dementia, the most common cognitive health issue in dogs, is only seen in adult dogs. Most Puggles that are affected by canine dementia are over the age of 11. This is because it is a condition caused specifically by the aging process. Specifically, plaque build-up in the brain that causes canine dementia comes from an accumulation of abnormal proteins. This build-up results in nerve damage, which can impair cognitive functioning and lead to canine dementia.
Unfortunately, canine dementia may commonly remain undiagnosed. This is because symptoms of canine dementia may be written off as typical signs of aging. In addition, canine dementia symptoms have a slow onset, meaning that their relation to one another may be difficult to notice. For example, memory loss in a Puggle with canine dementia may begin months before irritability. Because of this, it may be mistaken that these two symptoms are unrelated to one another since they took place at very different times. The most common symptoms seen within Puggles who are diagnosed with canine dementia include memory loss, irritability, forgetting learned behaviors, disregard for household rules, and impaired motor skills.
Symptoms of canine dementia may overlap with other conditions that a Puggle may be experiencing. Diabetes, cancer, arthritis, and kidney disorders aren’t uncommon for various older dogs to develop. When these conditions do exist, they can distract from possible canine dementia symptoms. Symptoms of canine dementia may instead be written off as caused by these unrelated health conditions.
Canine dementia is not an inherited disease, meaning that Puggles are no more prone to this condition than other dog breeds. All breeds have an equal risk of developing canine dementia as they age, and it isn’t passed down through generations of genetics. The only types of dogs that seem to be more likely to experience canine dementia are spayed females. All dogs over the age of nine are also the most likely to develop dementia, regardless of their breed.
Canine dementia can have various impacts on the life of your Puggle. Becoming confused or disoriented may be more common for a Puggle who is experiencing canine dementia. They may have a harder time finding a toy or treat that they have dropped on the ground. Some Puggles with canine dementia may even stop reacting the same when you bring out their favorite toys. All of these experiences can impact the life and behaviors of a Puggle who has canine dementia.
Though canine dementia does impact the life of a Puggle, they can still live a fulfilling and happy life. Owners can take certain steps to ensure that their Puggle is as happy and healthy as possible despite cognitive impairment. Taking your Puggle out to do the things that they love and being patient with their symptoms are the best ways to ensure your Puggle with canine dementia is still as fulfilled.
As of now, there are no known treatments that can reverse or cure this condition. Diet has been noted as a promising way to slow the progression of canine dementia in Puggles, though it isn’t guaranteed. Scientists have developed specially formulated dog food for senior dogs with cognitive health issues. These foods include antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, L-carnitine, alpha-lipoic acid, and carotenoids. They may also include extra omega-3 fatty acids in comparison to foods formulated for all ages of dogs. These antioxidants and fatty acids are known to help improve brain function in Puggle adults and even Puggle puppies. One of the best ways to possibly prevent canine dementia is by providing these antioxidants and fatty acids to Puggle puppies from a young age to obtain optimal cognitive functioning throughout their life.
Puggle Stress
Stress is an unavoidable experience in the life of humans and dogs, including Puggle puppies and adults. All dogs are more than likely to experience stress at least once–if not, more–in their lifetime. What triggers this stress in dogs can vary greatly. Some common stressors for dogs can be unknown noises or places, being left alone, or meeting new people. The best way for your Puggle to overcome this inevitable experience is to identify what is causing them stress and help them cope with this unpleasant feeling.
Pacing or shaking may be a sign of stress in dogs. A dog visiting the vet or who knows they are about to get a bath may begin to shake. Pacing around a room or yard may also be a sign of stress. If you notice your dog walking in the same path for a while, they may be feeling stressed.
Dogs will use their voice through barking or whining for a variety of reasons, including stress. This can be used to get your attention or to self-soothe when they are feeling stressed. By barking, dogs feel that they are bringing some attention to their stressed state which may result in some help.
Ears and eyes can be a very good indicator of stress in dogs. When stressed, the pupils of your Puggle’s eyes might be dilated more than usual. Their eyes may open wider than they typically are, which will reveal more of the white area of their eye called the sclera and cause them to look startled. Ears that are facing backward or pinned against your Puggle’s head may also indicate stress.
In addition to eye and ear position, overall posture may indicate whether or not your Puggle is feeling stressed. When they shift their weight mostly to their hind legs or begin to cower, this is likely because they are feeling stressed. Tucking their tail is also a very good way dogs communicate stress.
When stressed, Puggle puppies and adults may yawn. This yawn differs from a yawn that may signal that they are tired. A stress yawn is usually longer and more intense, and it may even be more audible. Puggle puppies and adults commonly pant when they are hot to cool themselves down, but they also do so when they are stressed from time to time. If your Puggle is panting, despite not having just finished exercise, this may be due to stress.
One of the most common ways that stress affects physical health is through shedding. Puggle puppies and adults have beautiful and unique coats, and the last thing that any owner wants is to compromise this due to stress. If you notice excessive hair loss in your Puggle, stress may be the cause of this.
Being able to recognize these behaviors from the regular behaviors of your Puggle is the key to identifying stress and what may be causing it. Does your Puggle begin to shake when the garbage truck goes by? Perhaps they are afraid of the loud, unknown noise that happens when it comes by. If your Puggle begins to pant when at the dog park, they may be feeling stressed around new dogs, in a new place, or around new people.
All of these situations require a close eye to help identify the exact cause of stress in a Puggle. The best way to avoid this stress taking a toll on the life of your Puggle puppy or adult’s life is by trying to lessen their experience of this. Understanding what causes your Puggle puppy or adult to become stressed is the first step in eliminating this feeling.
Once you have identified the source of stress for your Puggle, it’s relatively easy to find a solution for it. Those who are stressed because of a new place may just need your help to feel safe as they explore and become familiar with their new environment.
No matter the cause of stress in Puggle puppies and adults, there is likely an easy solution to eliminate this feeling. If you can’t seem to find an answer, consider consulting with your vet about stress-reducing supplements. Melatonin, chamomile, and hemp may help them feel less stressed when added to their diet. As always, be sure to consult with your vet before beginning supplementation. These supplements are relatively easy to add to your dog’s diet and won’t be a big adjustment to implement if needed. With some various strategies, you can minimize stress in Puggle puppies and adults who live with you.
Puggle Anxiety
While stress is something to consider when considering the overall health of your Puggle, so is anxiety. Anxiety is another physiological condition that almost all dogs will experience at least once in their life. This can be a very unenjoyable experience and minimizing it is a great way to make sure that your Puggle is as happy as can be.
Dogs can be prone to anxiety that is caused by a variety of reasons that may differ based on age, breed, temperament, and their individual past. Overall, some of the most common causes for anxiety within dogs are being abandoned before, loud noises, traveling, and new people or animals. Some dogs may not experience much anxiety at all throughout their lives, while others may see this feeling as a common occurrence.
As with stress, anxiety can be triggered in Puggle puppies and adults for a variety of reasons. Puggle puppies and adults are generally very adaptable dogs that can thrive in a variety of environments, but that doesn’t mean they are immune to becoming anxious.
While anxiety may seem like a normal thing to experience, it can still impact the life of your Puggle in a variety of ways. Puggle puppies or adults who are experiencing anxiety may also feel distressed, uneasy, and nervous. When feeling anxious, Puggle puppies or adults may not enjoy the activities that they typically love to do. Going on a walk may not be quite as fun when a Puggle is worried about unknown people.
When feeling anxious, Puggle puppies and adults may look for ways to cope that aren’t appropriate or even affect other areas of their health. Many anxious Puggle puppies and adults may chew at their skin, which will lead to hot spots and fur loss that affect their skin and coat health. Others may eat less when they are anxious, leading to weight loss and lethargy.
Some methods of coping with anxiety that Puggle puppies and adults may not affect their overall health, but still can affect their lives and even yours as an owner. Chewing inappropriate items such as shoes or furniture may be another activity your Puggle takes up when they are feeling anxious. No one wants to come home to their favorite pair of sneakers now ruined or a table leg covered with bite marks. This often leads to punishment for your Puggle, which can negatively impact their life as well. Getting in trouble for anxiety coping mechanisms isn’t enjoyable for any Puggle. This is why it’s important to combat anxiety from occurring the best that you can as a Puggle owner.
While anxiety is unenjoyable for Puggle puppies and adults, thankfully it won’t shorten their life. This condition may impact their quality of life and happiness, but you don’t have to worry about missing out on any valuable days with your beloved Puggle because of it. As an owner, there are plenty of things you can do to lessen your Puggle’s anxiety and give them the best life possible.
One of the best ways to prevent anxiety in your Puggle is through exercise. Taking them to the dog park or on a walk is a good way to help them burn off anxious energy and tire them out. If they feel fulfilled with their exercise, they may be less sensitive to things that would usually trigger anxiety. Exercise is a very important part of every dog’s life and the recommended amount can vary greatly depending on their size and age.
Socializing your Puggle can also help ease their anxiety if it’s commonly caused by new people or dogs. During socialization, Puggle puppies and adults become more used to others that they don’t know, making meeting them a normalized experience that no longer causes anxiety.
In addition to activities such as socializing and exercise, toys can be another good strategy to combat Puggle anxiety. Stimulating dog toys such as dog puzzles are a great way to prevent anxiety in Puggle puppies and adults. These can help keep them busy and give them something to focus on when you are unable to entertain them or take them out. In addition, these toys can serve as an appropriate outlet for their anxious energy.
When it comes to anxiety, this condition can be overwhelming for both you and your Puggle. Identifying the cause of anxiety is one of the best steps to take to combat this experience. With different methods, you can easily help eliminate anxiety from your Puggle’s life in relatively simple ways.
Puggle Allergies
Allergies can affect both humans and dogs, including Puggle puppies and adults. Allergies in humans may cause sneezing, watery eyes, and coughing. In dogs, allergies may look a little different. Dogs can experience flea allergies, food allergies, and skin allergies. Knowing what type of allergies Puggle puppies or adults are experiencing is the key to resting them.
The most common allergies in Puggle puppies and adults are skin allergies and food allergies. These conditions can cause your Puggle to become extremely itchy. With allergies, your Puggle may feel like they have an itch, or many, that they can never fully satisfy. These conditions are typically inherited, meaning they are passed down from generation to generation. This is what causes Puggle puppies and adults to be prone to allergies. It’s important to note that just because a breed is prone to a condition such as allergies doesn’t mean it’s inevitable for all dogs of this breed to inherit these health issues. Many Puggle puppies and adults will go their entire lives without ever experiencing food or skin allergies.
Skin Allergies
Skin allergies are caused by environmental factors. These environmental factors can vary and are generally harmless to others without allergies. They can be pollen, dust, or even grass. When Puggle puppies or adults come in contact with these harmless substances, their immune system becomes hyperactive and views them as a threat. Their immune system then attacks these substances, called allergens, triggering an allergic reaction. They can come in contact with these allergens through their skin or through the air.
Signs of skin allergies owners of puggle puppies or adults should keep an eye out for include itching, rubbing, and licking certain areas excessively. Common areas for allergies that cause the skin to become itchy include on a Puggle’s legs, paws, and hind end. Skin allergies can affect a Puggle’s ears as well by causing them to develop recurring ear infections. If Puggle puppies or adults has multiple ear infections that seem to come back constantly, be sure to get them checked out by a vet for possible skin allergies.
Skin allergies can impact the life of Puggle puppies or adults by making them feel itchy and uncomfortable. This constant itchiness can even cause Puggle puppies and adults to feel distressed and anxious about their discomfort. If your Puggle feels constantly itchy, they may even become lethargic due to their allergies. Becoming lethargic due to skin allergies can cause simple tasks that your Puggle may love to become challenging.
While skin allergies can be uncomfortable and affect your Puggle’s skin and coat health, they won’t shorten their life expectancy. Despite allergies, Puggle puppies and adults can still live long and healthy lives. Puggle puppies and adults can still experience allergies at any age, though they most commonly onset around two to three years of age. If your Puggle hasn’t developed skin allergies by this age, this doesn’t mean that they won’t in the future. Puggle puppies and adults of all ages can experience skin allergies, so be sure to keep an eye out for possible symptoms even as they grow older.
Vet treatments are the best way to combat skin allergies, though there are a variety of dietary changes and supplements that can help. Omega-3 fatty acids have shown to be a good way to combat Puggle skin allergies when added to their diet. These fatty acids help to minimize or even eliminate allergy-related itching by reducing skin inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids can be added to Puggle diets with specialized foods and supplements, including fish oil. As always, be sure to consult with your vet before beginning any supplementation.
Special shampoos can also help alleviate symptoms of skin allergies in Puggle puppies and adults. Tea tree oil, oatmeal, and aloe vera are common agents found in shampoos meant to help with skin allergies. These ingredients help to soothe their skin, which minimizes itching and inflammation in Puggle puppies and adults with skin allergies.
Food Allergies
Besides skin allergies caused by environmental factors, food allergies can also affect Puggle puppies and adults. Pinpointing the exact foods that your Puggle is allergic to is key to eliminating the symptoms of this condition. This can be difficult to do, so finding out the allergens that are triggering allergic reactions in your Puggle may be a bit of a journey.
Some common food allergens for dogs can include chicken, soy, beef, and grains. If you notice your Puggle itching excessively and licking their skin, this may be because they are consuming a food that they are actually allergic to.
Gut Health in Puggle Puppies and Adults
Gut health is highly important in terms of overall health in Puggle puppies and adults. A majority of your Puggle’s immune system lives in their stomach. Without a healthy gut and immune system, they are less able to fight off viruses, infections, and diseases that they may encounter.
As with any dog breed, Puggle puppies and adults can develop a variety of gut health issues. Thankfully this breed isn’t prone to an abundance of stomach issues in specific, though they can still experience them. Knowing the signs of gut health issues is the key to ensuring your Puggle is as healthy and happy as possible.
Stomach Sensitivity
Stomach sensitivity is a common digestive issue that any dog can experience. This is defined in Puggle puppies and adults by more than two episodes of any gastrointestinal upset in a short time. These upsets can include diarrhea, vomiting, and loose stool. If you notice any of these symptoms in your Puggle, be sure to get them to the vet as soon as possible.
A sensitive stomach can impact the life of Puggle puppies and adults in a variety of ways. This condition can cause discomfort and even other health issues when not managed properly. A sensitive stomach may cause lethargy, which may cause things that they love to do to become challenging. Going for a walk or playing can be unenjoyable when your Puggle has pain or discomfort in their stomach. The last thing that any Puggle owner wants is for their dog to have a less fulfilling life due to a sensitive stomach. While this condition may impact their life, it typically won’t shorten their life expectancy. Stomach sensitivity on its own won’t shorten the years you have with them, but if it’s caused by an underlying condition this may not be the case. Underlying conditions can have varying effects on life expectancy and should be analyzed on a case-to-case basis.
Thankfully, stomach sensitivity can easily be combatted and managed at home in a variety of different ways. Diets with limited ingredients are a great way to help Puggle puppies and adults overcome a sensitive stomach. Limited ingredient foods are easier to digest and minimize digestive issues. Limited ingredient foods will typically have a few types of healthy proteins and no grains to ease digestion.
In addition to limited ingredient diets, probiotic supplements can be added to your dog’s diet to help reverse or combat sensitive stomach issues. Your Puggle’s stomach is a microbiome of various bacterias that keep them healthy and easily digest their foods. One of these vital bacterias is called Probiotics. When the balance of this microbiome becomes abnormal for a variety of reasons, they can experience digestive health issues. Adding probiotics back into your Puggle’s stomach microbiome through their daily diet can help rebalance their intestinal flora and prevent stomach sensitivities. As always, be sure to consult with your vet before beginning supplementation.
Slowing down your Puggle’s rate of eating can help combat stomach sensitivities besides changing their diet or adding supplements. Puggle puppies, and even adults, may overindulge and eat their food too quickly. This can cause stomach sensitivity issues as well as digestive problems. One way to avoid this is by using slow feeder bowls, which you can easily find at local pet stores.
These slow feeder bowls have divots and gaps that dogs must get the food from rather than being able to take big bites at once. By doing so, they will be forced to slow their rate of eating down, which may eliminate or minimize their gut health issues.
Having an upset stomach is never fun for Puggle puppies, adults, or their owners. Gut health issues can be a difficult and irritating thing to overcome as a dog owner, but with the right education and strategies, it’s very attainable.
Implementing new diets, supplements, and feeding bowls are some of the most promising ways to make sure your Puggle’s gut health is in the best condition that it can be. Taking these steps to ensure Puggle’s gut health is not overbearing for an owner and thankfully can be done at home. If you have tried various remedies with no luck, be sure to get your Puggle to the vet. They will be able to look for underlying conditions that may be causing stomach sensitivity for Puggle puppies and adults.
Puggle Eye Health
Eye health issues can vary from highly concerning to mild in any dog breed, including Puggle puppies and adults. As with any breed, Puggle puppies and adults are more prone to certain eye conditions than others. Knowing these conditions, their symptoms, and treatments is ideal for a Puggle owner who is looking to keep their dog as healthy and happy as possible. This will allow you to get your Puggle care as quickly as possible.
As always, just because a breed is prone to or inherits a specific condition doesn’t mean that these health issues are inevitable. Many Puggle puppies and adults will go their entire lives without ever experiencing eye health issues.
Cherry Eye
One of the most common eye health issues for Puggle puppies and adults to face is called Cherry Eye. This condition is a prolapsed gland of the nictitans which occurs when a tear gland in a Puggle’s third eyelid becomes inflamed. This condition can be very alarming as it causes a dog’s inner eye to become swollen and red.
While the alarming, cherry eye isn’t painful for Puggle puppies and adults. Many Puggle puppies and adults may rub their eye as if it is itchy or bothersome, though they don’t show signs of being in pain. This rubbing can be dangerous as it can lead to other eye issues, which is why it’s important to get your Puggle treated for the cherry eye as soon as you notice it. Since Puggle puppies and adults are prone to this condition, your vet will be sure to check for it at regular examinations. Some cases will require minor surgery, while others may just need to be managed.
Since cherry eye is a genetic condition that has to do with the structure of a Puggle’s eye, there is no way to prevent it. The best steps that a Puggle owner can take in regards to cherry eye is being aware of symptoms and keeping watch in case they arise to get proper treatment.
Cherry eye doesn’t shorten the life of Puggle puppies or adults despite being uncomfortable. Once treated, cherry eye can happen again. Be sure to keep your Puggle up to date on regular examinations after cherry eye treatment to avoid possible additional cases of this condition.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Progressive retinal atrophy, also known as PRA, is a condition that affects vision abilities slowly over time. Some dogs, including Puggle puppies and adults, are more likely to inherit these condition genes than others.
Progressive retinal atrophy essentially means that a Puggle’s eyes are genetically programmed to slowly go blind. Puggle puppies rarely experience progressive retinal atrophy as this condition typically is seen in Puggle adults between three and five years of age. Progressive retinal atrophy is not painful for Puggle puppies and adults, but it can still impact their life through vision loss and the adjustments that they need to make to compensate for poor vision.
The most common symptoms of progressive retinal atrophy are difficulty seeing at night and dilated pupils. Puggle eyes may also begin to look cloudy due to the onset of progressive retinal atrophy. Their eyes can also begin to have a grey color and have a slight sheen. If you notice symptoms of progressive retinal atrophy, it’s best to get Puggle puppies or adults checked out by a vet as soon as possible. Puggle puppies and adults can have genetic testing performed to diagnose or predict this disease. Having your Puggle tested for progressive retinal atrophy genes is a good way to know if they are likely to experience this condition in the future and allow yourself time to adjust to a possible diagnosis.
Puggle puppies and adults with progressive retinal atrophy can still live a very happy and healthy life. Most of the time vision loss doesn’t onset until later in life. Blind Puggle puppies and adults can still play and navigate their home by memory. They can also recognize owners and other animals by their smell and listen to verbal commands. While progressive retinal atrophy is a common diagnosis, it won’t shorten your Puggle’s life. You can still live many fun-filled years with Puggle puppies or adults with this condition.
Since progressive retinal atrophy is an inherited disease, unfortunately, there are not a lot of preventative measures that you can take to avoid this condition. As of now, no supplements or dietary changes have been shown to prevent progressive retinal atrophy in any breeds including Puggle puppies and adults. Though this condition can be scary, your Puggle can still live a normal and happy life despite progressive retinal atrophy.
Puggle Ear Health
One of the most adorable features of a Puggle is its floppy ears. They are the perfect shape to rub and pet and are especially soft.
With adorable ears commonly comes a price. Many dogs with floppy ear shapes may experience a variety of different ear issues. The issues can vary from severe to mild and should be taken care of promptly. We’ll discuss the most common ear health issues seen in the Puggle breed so you can be prepared in case symptoms ever arise.
Ear Infections
By far the most common ear issue for Puggle puppies and adults to experience is an ear infection. Ear infections can be caused by a variety of factors, including the floppy Puggle ear shape. Floppy ears are heavy and can block airflow within the ear canal. This airflow is necessary to ensure that bacteria doesn’t grow. Without proper airflow, a Puggle’s ears can become moist, the perfect breeding house for unwanted bacteria and yeast. This can lead to a cycle of ear issues if not properly dealt with.
Skin allergies can also cause ear infections, which Puggle puppies and adults are known to be prone to. If you notice Puggle puppies or adults having excessive ear infections despite treatment and preventative measures, consider getting them checked for skin allergies as the underlying cause.
Ear infections themselves may not be visible to the eye of a Puggle owner due to their location in the ear canal, but the symptoms usually are. When your Puggle is shaking their head a lot, this may be a sign that they are experiencing an ear infection. Crust on the inside of their ear is also a common indicator of an ear infection. Some Puggle puppies and adults who are experiencing an ear infection may also rub the affected ear with their paws. This rubbing is typically done to try and ease discomfort or pain that they are feeling from the infection itself.
While ear infections can be uncomfortable and painful for your Puggle, thankfully you can take prevention measures at home to try and avoid this condition. One of the best ways to prevent ear infections in your Puggle is by regular ear cleaning and grooming. During grooming appointments, make sure that your groomer is plucking and removing excess ear hair. You can also remove excess ear hair on your own at home. A good rule of thumb is to remove ear hair at least once per month. This will ensure no excess debris is being collected within the ear that can lead to an infection. Inner ears can also be cleaned with an ear cleaning solution that is commonly found at your local pet store. Using these ear cleaning solutions will break down any excess buildup that’s located deeper in the ear canal than you can reach on your own.
Fleas are not a fun thing to deal with for you or your Puggle. They cause itchy skin and discomfort and can be hard to get rid of for good. Fleas can negatively impact many areas of your Puggle’s health, including their ears. Flea waste and dirt are common culprits of ear infections in Puggle puppies and adults. Making sure Puggle puppies and adults are completely flea-free is one of the best ways to prevent Puggle ear infections.
On top of cleaning and flea control, diet can actually prevent ear infections that are caused by skin allergies. One of the best ways to combat these types of ear infections, and the skin allergies that cause ear infections, is through diet and supplementation. Feeding your Puggle puppies or adults a diet that is rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids will help keep their skin healthy and combat allergies that can cause ear infections. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements and fortified foods are great things to incorporate into the diet of Puggle puppies and adults to prevent possible allergy-related ear infections in the future. As always, be sure to consult your vet before beginning new supplements or dietary changes.
While ear infections can be annoying and painful to deal with, they won’t shorten the life expectancy of Puggle puppies or adults. Despite ear infections, you can still enjoy many treasured days side by side. Taking steps to minimize and prevent ear infections is the best way to help your Puggle live its most fulfilling and healthy life possible. Ear cleaning, flea prevention, and supplementation are the most promising ways to avoid ear infections.
Immune Health in Puggle Puppies and Adults
Immune health is one of the most important aspects of overall health within Puggle puppies and adults. Without a healthy immune system, Puggle puppies and adults won’t be able to fight off viruses, infections, and diseases that they may encounter. As with any part of their body, the immune system can also have problems of its own within Puggle puppies and adults. Knowing the conditions that your Puggle is most prone to is the best way to get them the treatment that they need if an immune health issue does arise.
Autoimmune disorders are immune malfunctions that cause the body to attack itself. These disorders can vary greatly and may have vastly different symptoms. Puggle puppies and adults are more prone to different autoimmune disorders than others due to their genetics. As always, it’s important to remember that just because a Puggle is prone to inheriting a certain condition doesn’t mean this experience is unavoidable. Many Puggle puppies and adults will go their entire lives without ever experiencing an autoimmune disorder.
Hypothyroidism
The thyroid and its functioning is an important part of overall health that often gets impacted by autoimmune disorders, especially by hypothyroidism. This condition occurs when Puggle thyroid glands don’t produce and release adequate amounts of thyroid hormone into the bloodstream. This can be due to thyroid gland shrinkage or inflammation, resulting in a reduced metabolic state. The thyroid gland is located in the neck of Puggle puppies and adults.
The reduced metabolic state that occurs due to hypothyroidism in Puggle puppies and adults can have a variety of symptoms. Puggles with this condition may experience hair thinning and flaky skin. If you notice that your Puggle is more tired and lethargic than usual, this may also be a symptom of hypothyroidism. Ears can also be affected by this condition, as many Puggle puppies and adults with hypothyroidism experience more ear infections and ear pain. Unexplained weight loss or obesity that isn’t caused by dietary or exercise changes may be an indicator of hypothyroidism. A Puggle that seems to be more intolerant of the cold, possibly shivering more than they did before in lower temperatures, maybe experiencing this autoimmune disorder.
Given the wide variety of symptoms, hypothyroidism can be difficult to diagnose. Symptoms may be written off as unrelated to one another or occur at different times. If you notice one or more of the common hypothyroidism symptoms in your Puggle, be sure to get them to the vet as soon as possible. Treatment is the key to making sure that your Puggle lives a happy and healthy life despite this condition.
When left untreated, hypothyroidism can have various negative impacts on the lives of Puggle puppies and adults. They may feel unmotivated to do activities to do things that they love and maybe uncomfortable due to the ear problems and cold intolerance that this condition may cause. Thankfully, hypothyroidism can easily be managed by your vet and at home. Some symptoms such as hair loss and flaky skin may take longer to resolve than others, but they all typically go away with time and treatment.
One great way to combat hypothyroidism at home is through diet and supplementation. Be sure to consult with your vet before adding any new dietary changes or supplements to your Puggle’s life. Ashwagandha, mushrooms, kelp, and schizandra berry are known to improve thyroid function naturally. Adding these to the diet of your Puggle through food or supplements can be a great way to support their thyroid and combat hypothyroidism.
When it comes to hypothyroidism, the steps you can take as an owner of a Puggle with this condition are relatively simple and easy to do. Following vet-recommended treatments is the best way to manage the symptoms of this condition. In addition, medically approved supplements and food are easy to add to your dog’s life and make a big difference.
Though hypothyroidism can be a scary diagnosis, you and your Puggle can easily overcome this condition to live happily. Understanding the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism is the key to obtaining an accurate diagnosis. Be sure to be vigilant about these symptoms and seek immediate care if they do arise. After doing so, you can look forward to many happy and healthy days alongside your beloved Puggle.
Puggle Joint Health
Due to the small Puggle size, joint health issues are commonly overlooked in Puggle puppies and adults. Many believe that joint health issues only arise in large dog breeds, but unfortunately, this isn’t the case.
Joint health is an essential part of a quality and fulfilling life for Puggle puppies and adults. Without it, this active and fun-loving breed may miss out on some very loved activities. Running, jumping, and playing fetch can become challenging when your Puggle is experiencing joint health issues.
Knowing the joint health issues most commonly seen in the Puggle breed is a promising way to get them the care they need if these conditions do develop. As always, just because a breed is prone to certain conditions doesn’t mean that they are destined to experience them. Many Puggle puppies and adults will go their entire lives without any joint pain or problems. Nevertheless, being aware of the possibilities is still a good idea as an owner.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia can occur in both Puggle puppies and adults, though it’s more commonly seen in older dogs. This condition is caused by abnormal growth in the ball and socket of these joints as well as insufficient coverage. This causes the joint to become loose and unstable, which can lead to Puggle puppies and adults experiencing scar tissue around the joints that are affected by dysplasia.
This is an inherited condition that is more commonly seen in certain breeds than others. Hip dysplasia only affects the back legs and can affect one joint or both joints. Common symptoms include limping, obvious pain, decreased range of motion in hips or legs, audible clicking sounds when your Puggle walks, avoiding high levels of activity, and slower rates of walking or running.
Unfortunately due to its inherited nature, hip dysplasia is hard to prevent. One of the best ways to avoid this condition is through weight management. Obese dogs have more pressure on their joints, including their hips. Making sure your dog is at an ideal weight will help them avoid this excess pressure that may lead to hip dysplasia. Becoming obese can be prevented through both diets and recommended amounts of daily exercise. Appropriate daily exercise and feeding amounts can vary by height, age, and breed, so be sure to check with your vet before making any changes.
One of the best ways to combat hip dysplasia once it has developed is through pain relief. Anti-inflammatory agents are known to reduce joint swelling and therefore minimize pain caused by hip dysplasia. Some of the best anti-inflammatory agents that are safe for Puggle puppies and adults include Turmeric, ashwagandha, and kelp. These ingredients can easily be added to your dog’s diet through supplements found at your local pet store. Be sure to check with your vet before beginning supplementation.
In addition to diet, certain foods have been shown to help manage hip dysplasia. Studies have shown that dogs who consumed a fish-based, nutrient-rich diet had less severe cases of hip dysplasia than those who ate chicken-based diets. Some nutrient factors of fish-based foods may help slow the progression of elbow and hip dysplasia in Puggle puppies and adults.
Hip dysplasia can be painful and uncomfortable, but it won’t shorten the life expectancy of Puggle puppies or adults. With the right treatments and management strategies, you and your Puggle can be back to doing the things that you love in no time.
Patellar Luxation
In addition to hip dysplasia, Puggle puppies and adults can also be prone to patellar luxation. This condition takes place when a Puggle’s knee cap becomes dislocated from their thigh bone. Patellar luxation can take place in one or both of their hind legs. In smaller dogs such as a Puggle, this shift typically happens towards the inside of the limb. Some symptoms may include lameness, limping, and locking of the joint.
The severity and treatment for this condition can vary greatly. Surgery may be needed to correct this dislocation and Puggle puppies or adults with patellar luxation should always be seen by a vet to choose the next appropriate steps.
One of the best ways to combat this condition in Puggle puppies and adults is through anti-inflammatory agents. Turmeric, Ashwagandha, and kelp can help reduce pain in the knee joint and support joint function. As always, be sure to consult with your vet before beginning supplementation. In addition to supplements, weight management is another promising way to avoid patellar luxation.
Puggle Skin and Coat Health
Skin and coat health can greatly impact a Puggle’s comfort level and happiness. Aside from skin allergies mentioned earlier, Puggle puppies and adults aren’t especially known to be prone to many specific skin or coat conditions. It’s important to note that just because they aren’t common, doesn’t mean they can’t occur.
Dry skin may take place in Puggle puppies and adults, which can also affect their coat health. Puggles living in low humidity environments may be more likely to develop this condition. When dry skin occurs, Puggle puppies and adults may experience hair loss, skin inflammation, hot spots, and itchiness. These symptoms can negatively impact a Puggle’s life by making them uncomfortable, and even distressed or lethargic. Skin sores and cold sensitivity may even develop due to dry skin. If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to consult your vet to test for underlying conditions that may be causing it.
Though unenjoyable, dry skin issues won’t shorten the life of your Puggle. This condition can even be managed at home with products and supplements found at your local pet store. Omega-3 fatty acids are one of the best ways to manage dry skin in Puggle puppies and adults. These fatty acids have been shown to have a magnificent impact on the overall health of Puggle skin and coat. With healthier skin, Puggle puppies and adults are much less likely to experience dry skin. These Omega-3 fatty acids can easily be added to your Puggle’s diet through specially formulated foods and supplements. As always, be sure to consult with your vet before beginning supplementation or dietary changes.
In addition to dietary changes, dry skin can also be combatted through special shampoos. Dry skin isn’t an uncommon thing for all breeds to experience besides Puggle puppies and adults. Because of this, many brands have begun creating shampoos to help manage this condition. Shampoos that contain oatmeal, aloe vera, or tea tree oil are great to try out. These ingredients help to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation as well as moisturize. Be sure not to over wash your Puggle as this can dry out their natural skin oils, leading to even drier skin. Puggle puppies and adults should generally be washed around every ten days.
While skin and coat issues can be stressful for both Puggle puppies or adults and their owners, they can usually be prevented and treated relatively easily. The best steps for a Puggle owner to take to keep their dog’s coat and skin as healthy as possible is a well-rounded diet and following vet protocol. If your vet prescribes certain treatments or management strategies, be sure to follow them to obtain the healthiest skin and coat possible for your Puggle. Shampoos can also be a great trick to keep their skin healthy and moisturized as long as they are not used too often.
When facing dry skin with your Puggle, don’t panic. With vet recommendations and some trial and error, you will be able to find a solution in no time. Be sure to take note of what supplements, foods, and shampoos seem to help their skin and which ones don’t seem to make a big difference. If your Puggle is still itchy or experiencing other dry skin symptoms despite various treatments, be sure to tell your vet. They will be able to complete further examinations to get to the bottom of this condition. You and your Puggle will be back to living a healthy, normal life in no time despite dry skin.
