Why Your Pug Is Eating Grass And What To Do About It

March 25, 2023 by emilyreviews Leave a Comment

Pugs are adorable, lovable, and curious creatures that make wonderful pets. However, if you are a pug owner, you may have noticed that your furry friend has a tendency to eat grass. This behavior can be concerning for some owners, but is it normal?

Why do pugs eat grass?

The exact reason why pugs eat grass is not entirely clear. However, there are a few theories that can help explain this behavior. One theory is that pugs eat grass to relieve digestive discomfort. When a pug has an upset stomach, they may instinctively turn to grass as a way to induce vomiting or to help ease their discomfort. Another theory is that pugs simply enjoy the taste and texture of grass. After all, pugs are curious animals and are known to explore their environment with their mouths.

Is it harmful for pugs to eat grass?

In general, eating grass is not harmful to pugs. However, there are some risks to keep in mind. Pugs may ingest harmful chemicals or pesticides that have been used on the grass, which can lead to digestive issues or even poisoning. Additionally, pugs may swallow large pieces of grass that can cause a blockage in their digestive system. Therefore, it’s important to monitor your pug’s grass-eating behavior and make sure they are not eating grass that has been treated with chemicals or pesticides. You should also ensure that your pug is not eating too much grass at once, as this can increase the risk of a blockage.

What can you do to prevent your pug from eating grass?

If you are concerned about your pug’s grass-eating behavior, there are a few things you can do to prevent it. First, make sure your pug is getting enough food and water. Sometimes, pugs may eat grass because they are hungry or thirsty. Additionally, you can try distracting your pug with toys or other activities when they start to eat grass. Finally, you can try providing your pug with alternative snacks or treats that they can chew on instead of grass.

How to train a pug to stop eating grass?

Training your pug to stop eating grass can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. One way to discourage your pug from eating grass is to distract them with toys or other activities when you notice them attempting to eat grass. You can also try training your pug with positive reinforcement, rewarding them when they avoid eating grass. If the behavior continues, consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer for additional advice.

Do other breeds of dogs also eat grass? Is it normal?

Yes, many breeds of dogs eat grass, and it’s generally considered a normal behavior. Dogs are omnivores and may eat grass to supplement their diet with fiber or other nutrients that they may be missing. However, if you notice excessive grass-eating, it’s important to monitor your dog’s behavior and make sure they are not experiencing any health issues.

How to identify if a pug is eating too much grass and what to do if it becomes a problem?

If your pug is eating too much grass, they may vomit or experience diarrhea. Additionally, they may have difficulty passing stools, and their appetite may decrease. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your veterinarian immediately. In some cases, your pug may require medical treatment or dietary changes to prevent any further complications.

If there are any home remedies to soothe a pug’s digestive system if they have eaten too much grass?

If your pug has eaten too much grass and is experiencing digestive discomfort, you can try feeding them a bland diet consisting of boiled chicken and rice. You can also provide them with plenty of water to help flush out any toxins or impurities. However, if your pug’s symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek veterinary care.

Do pugs need to eat grass to fulfill a nutritional deficiency?

While grass does contain some nutrients that may be beneficial to dogs, it’s not necessary for pugs to eat grass to fulfill any nutritional deficiencies. If you’re concerned about your pug’s diet, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate diet and supplements for your pug’s health.

In conclusion, pugs eating grass is a common behavior, but it’s important to monitor your pug’s behavior to ensure their health and safety. If you have any concerns about your pug’s grass-eating behavior or their overall health, consult with a veterinarian for professional advice.

Why is Your Pug Constantly Gagging? Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

March 22, 2023 by emilyreviews Leave a Comment

Why your pug is hacking, coughing or gagging

Possible causes of coughing, hacking, and gagging in pugs include environmental irritants, allergies, dental problems, heartworm disease, tracheal collapse, and kennel cough.

Hacking, coughing, and gagging in pugs can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from minor issues to more serious health concerns. Here are some possibilities to consider:

Environmental factors: Is your pug exposed to second-hand smoke, air pollution, or other environmental irritants? These can all cause respiratory issues that can lead to coughing, hacking, and gagging.
Allergies: Just like humans, dogs can have allergies to things like pollen, dust, and certain foods. These allergies can cause coughing and gagging, as well as other symptoms like itching and sneezing.
Dental problems: Dental issues like tooth decay or gum disease can lead to coughing and gagging as your pug tries to clear their throat.
Heartworm disease: This is a serious health concern that can lead to coughing, hacking, and gagging, among other symptoms. If your pug is not on a regular heartworm prevention medication, this could be a possibility.
Tracheal collapse: This is a condition that is common in pugs and can cause coughing, gagging, and even difficulty breathing. It occurs when the rings of cartilage in the trachea weaken and collapse.
Kennel cough: This is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can cause coughing, hacking, and gagging, among other symptoms.

Why some senior pugs gag more as they get older

Senior pugs may gag more as they get older due to respiratory infections, weakened immune systems, dental problems, or tracheal collapse. Obesity can exacerbate issues. Regular check-ups, a healthy diet, and love can help them feel their best.

Just like us humans, our adorable pugs also experience some changes as they get older. One of the most common issues that senior pugs may face is increased gagging or coughing. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including respiratory infections, allergies, or even heart disease. Additionally, older pugs may be more likely to develop dental problems, such as gum disease or tooth decay, which can lead to inflammation and discomfort in the mouth and throat.

Another factor that may contribute to increased gagging in senior pugs is a weakened immune system. As a pug ages, their immune system may become less effective at fighting off infections and other health issues. This can make them more vulnerable to respiratory and gastrointestinal problems that can cause gagging.

Furthermore, as pugs age, they may become less active and more prone to weight gain. Obesity can exacerbate respiratory and gastrointestinal issues, which can lead to increased gagging.

Tracheal collapse is a condition that can affect many senior pugs and cause them to gag more frequently. This happens when the rings of cartilage in the trachea become weakened, leading to the collapse of the tracheal walls and making it more difficult for air to flow through. This can result in coughing, gagging, and difficulty breathing.

But don’t worry, with proper care and management, many senior pugs can still live happy and healthy lives! Regular check-ups with your veterinarian, a healthy diet, and plenty of love and attention can go a long way in keeping your senior pug feeling their best.

How to reduce gagging in pugs

To reduce gagging in pugs, ensure a high-quality diet, use a slow-feed bowl if eating too fast, keep them hydrated, limit over-excitement during playtime, schedule regular vet check-ups, and use a harness instead of a collar.

Here are some tips to help reduce gagging in your furry friend:

Check their diet: Pugs are known for having sensitive stomachs, so it’s important to make sure they’re eating a high-quality diet that agrees with them. Avoid feeding them table scraps or anything that could upset their tummy.
Slow their intake: Pugs can be little pigs who don’t know their own limits. They can eat too fast causing themselves to gag. If this is happening, consider purchasing a slow-feed bowl.
Keep them hydrated: Dehydration can lead to gagging and other health issues, so make sure your pug always has access to fresh water. You can even add some low-sodium chicken broth to their water to make it more appealing.
Avoid over-excitement: Pugs are notoriously excitable, but too much excitement can lead to gagging or even vomiting. Keep playtime and exercise sessions short and sweet to avoid triggering a gag reflex.
Get regular check-ups: Regular visits to the vet can help catch any potential health issues before they become serious. Your vet can also give you tips on how to reduce gagging in your pug and recommend any necessary treatments.
Use a harness, not collar: Pugs are brachycephalic dogs, which means they have a shortened airway that can make breathing difficult. Using a harness instead of a collar reduces pressure on their neck and make breathing easier.

With these tips in mind, you’ll hopefully be able to reduce gagging in your pug and keep them happy and healthy. Remember, if you’re ever unsure about your pug’s health, always consult with a veterinarian for professional advice.

When to go to the vet for coughing or gagging

If your dog’s coughing or gagging persists for more than a few days, if they’re lethargic or losing their appetite, or if they’re displaying other symptoms like wheezing or difficulty breathing, go to the vet.

It can be tough to know when your dog’s cough is just a minor annoyance or a sign of something more serious.

While coughing and gagging can be caused by a variety of factors, there are a few red flags that indicate it might be time for a trip to the vet. Here are a few things to look out for:

Frequency and duration: If your dog’s coughing or gagging persists for more than a few days, or if it’s happening frequently throughout the day, it’s probably time to see a vet.
Changes in behavior: Is your dog acting lethargic, losing their appetite, or avoiding playtime? These could all be signs that something is not right, and a trip to the vet might be necessary.
Other symptoms: Are you noticing any other symptoms, like fever, wheezing, or difficulty breathing? These are all indications that there could be an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed.
Age and breed: Some breeds are more prone to respiratory issues than others, and age can also be a factor. If your dog is a senior or has a history of respiratory problems, it’s especially important to be vigilant about coughing and gagging.

Of course, every dog is different, and it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to their health. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s always a good idea to reach out to your vet for guidance.

Pug Anxiety

August 25, 2022 by emilyreviews Leave a Comment

Are Pugs Prone To Anxiety?

Pugs are prone to separation anxiety, specifically. Outside of separation anxiety, they aren’t known to be more anxious than other dog breeds. Still, anxiety isn’t unusual in dogs in general so many pugs have anxiety about various things.

Signs of Anxiety In Pugs

Pacing.

Drooling.

Panting despite not being hot or active.

Destructive behavior such as chewing on things they shouldn’t.

Being jumpy or having dramatic reactions.

Whining, whimpering, or crying.

Avoidance. Sometimes pugs will run away from what they are afraid of. Other times they might just try to hide or seek solitude to calm themselves.

Shaking or shivering when not cold.

Tucking their nail low or between their legs.

Excessive self-licking or other self-soothing behaviors.

Common Causes Of Anxiety For Pugs

Separation from their owner or family. Pugs were bred to be companions so they are truly lap dogs to the bone! Due to this, separation from their people is particularly difficult for them. Some pugs may have separation anxiety if separated from other pets in the household that they have bonded with.

Thunder. Thunderstorms are a common cause of anxiety in dogs in general, and pugs are no exception.

Fireworks are another common fear for dogs in general.

Vacuum cleaner sounds. What is this noisy contraption moving around the living room??

Having their nails trimmed. For some this can be due to having felt pain if their nails were ever cut too short. For many dogs, they’ve never been hurt while having their nails cut but it still is just a confusing and perhaps physically awkward experience for them.

Going to the vet. Some dogs remember being injured a the vet, or hearing loud noises while at the vet that scared them. For others, they may sense that their ower is worried about them when at the vet, or they may dislike being put on the exam table. For various reasons, lots of dogs experience nerves while at the vet.

How To Help A Pug With Anxiety

Desensitize them slowly but surely. This can be especially helpful for things that your dog needs to experience sometimes, such as vet visits or nail trims. Allowing them to get a little nervous without letting them get to a full-out panic can desensitize them over time. We did this with nail trimming with my pug. We’d start with trying to trim one nail and would continue if he was uncomfortable but not freaking out. If he started to get ‘too’ worked up, we’d stop and try again a few hours later or the next day rather than forcing him through all of his nails at once.

Avoidance. In some cases, just letting your dog avoid their anxiety trigger can work. Of course, this is only if the source of their anxiety is something they don’t need to have in their lives.

Drown out the noise. If your dog dislikes certain sounds like fireworks, thunderstorms or the vacuum, sometimes playing other sounds for them can help. If you put on loud music while vacuuming, the vacuum may bother them less.

Compression wraps. Some dogs find compression soothing. Thundershirs are a popular brad of compression shirts, but there are many offbrands as well.

Leave them your scent. If you have to leave your pug home alone and they struggle with separation anxiety, leaving them with a t-shirt you’ve worn (or something similar) may be soothing to them.

Positive associations. Try to combine a positive experience with your dogs anxiety trigger. For example, if they are afraid of your neighbor’s dog, you can try giving them their favorite dog treat when they see the neighbors dog. Over time, they can grow to associate the neighbors dog with getting a treat which can help them to have a more positive association with that dog.

Using a kennel or reducing your pug’s access within the home. For some dogs, having free reign of the home while home alone is anxiety inducing. For those dogs, beig left in a kennel or limited to just one area while home alone may be more comforting. You could try using a baby gate or pet gate to keep your dog blocked in one room.

Kongs with frozen peanut butter or other interactive toys can give your pug something to do to keep their mind off their worries.

Leaving sound on when you leave the house. Some feel that their days stay calmer if they have a radio or TV on when home alone. If your home usually has sound happening and then it’s totally silent when your pug is home alone, this may make it feel more unusual for your dog. Keeping some sound in the home may make them less aware of people not being home.

Get them tired before they face their anxiety trigger. For example, if your dog dislikes being left home alone, you may take them on a good walk before you leave. This can give them less energy o focus on their anxiety and may increase the odds that they’ll just nap when you’re gone. I used to find it helpful to tire my pugs out a bit before we went to the vet, too.

Medication. When needed, vets can provide anxiety medication for pets.

Why Your Pug Is Constantly Licking

February 25, 2022 by emilyreviews Leave a Comment

Why Pugs Lick Things

New moms lick their puppies to clean them after birth and to stimulate them to breathe. They also lick their pups to stimulate them to go to the bathroom as new puppies. As puppies get older, they often will lick their mother’s muzzle. It seems to be a bonding behavior for dogs.

In many cases, licking is a way that dogs show affection.

Dogs lick other dogs to show respect, so when your pug licks you, it’s possible that part of the reason why dogs like to lick people could be that they are trying to show you respect.

Of course, dogs also like to lick things simply to taste them! This is why dogs will lick foods, plants or other things that they suspect may taste good to them. Part of the reason why dogs like to lick people is because our skin tastes a bit salty to them.

When a dog is licking themselves, it’s usually to clean themselves. Dogs often lick their nose to clean it, as this can actually increase how well they can smell!

When Pugs Lick Because Something Is Wrong

While licking is a very normal and safe behavior in dogs much of the time, there are times where licking can be a sign of a problem. Here are some of the reasons why pug lick when something is wrong:

Licking releases endorphins for dogs which can soothe their pain. This leads pugs to lick when they are in pain or needing comfort, sometimes.

If pugs are having pain, irritation or itching in an area, they may lick that area in an attempt to soothe it. If you find your dog is suddenly wanting to lick a specific area, have the vet check it out.

If dogs develop hot spots from allergies or similar issues, they’ll often lick that area a lot. If you see your dog licking a particular spot quiet a lot, check the fur and skin in that area to see if there has been any fur loss or if there is any redness or oozing.

“Air licking” or when dogs appear to lick nothing or lick the air, can be something stuck in their mouth (like a hair) or painful teeth. If you notice air licking, check their mouth to see if they have something stuck. If this is a regular behavior, schedule a vet visit to see if it’s time for a dental workup.

Compulsive Licking In Pugs

If your dog doesn’t have a problem with a particular area but is constantly licking it, it may have become a compulsive habit. Sort of like how people can bounce their leg or twist their hair unconsciously. Dogs can sometimes develop the habit of licking just out of a nervous habit or boredom habit.

If severe, licking can lead to medical issues such as hair loss and skin infection. It’s best to try to curb habitual licking early if you can. The way to do this is to resolve the underlying cause. If anxious, try to work on the source of their anxiety or get them treatment for anxiety. If it’s from boredom, find enrichment activities to help them out.

Excessively licking surfaces (like furniture) can be GI related. A study was done that showed that dogs who excessively lick surfaces have nearly a 75% chance of having gastrointestinal trouble. These GI issues varied but included irritable bowel syndrome, delayed gastric emptying, a foreign body in the digestive tract and more.

After the dogs were treated for their GI issue, about half of them stopped the excessive licking behavior!

Source: ScienceDirect.com.

How To Stop Your Pug From Constantly Licking

Block them from the area. When my pug went through a phase of obsessively licking his paws, we would put socks or dog booties on him for small amount of time. We didn’t leave them on 24/7, as his feet needed to breathe. However, just putting the socks or booties on if he was fixated on licking would get him to stop for a while, and then we’d take them off later.

Don’t positively reward it. Sometimes we can accidentally train dogs to do the opposite of what we’d like them to do, by accidentally rewarding their behavior. I Don’t mean with treats. Instead, it can be as simple as giving them attention for licking. If they are attention-seeking, try to ignore the behavior.

Reward them when they don’t lick. This is probably easiest to train if your dog has regular licking habits. For example, if they often lick you when you squat down to pet them and you want to curb that behavior, you can ignore the behavior and not pet them until they stop licking, then give them a treat.

Monitor their pain level and anxiety level. If they are licking due to pain or anxiety, make sure ther pain or anxiety are being improved so they won’t need licking as a coping method anymore.

Don’t let them stay bored. If their licking is the result of boredom, keeping them from getting bored will be the solution to curbing the licking. There are lots of enrichment ideas for dogs on the web. Keep their brain working and they won’t get bored.