However, shedding in dogs may irritate, and at some point, you could start thinking of owning a dog that doesn’t shed.
This makes you wonder if there are pugs that don’t shed.
Do we have pugs that don’t shed?
No, pugs shed a significant amount of hair, depending on breed.
Some pugs have single coats and only shed little hair.
You may control your pugs’ shedding by utilizing various management methods, such as frequent bathing and grooming.
This article discusses the pug’s shedding, what you should know about its characteristics, and how to manage or control it.
Read further and get a deeper understanding.
Are pugs hypoallergenic?
Hypoallergenic dogs produce fewer allergens than others, making them ideal for people with allergies.
Unfortunately, pugs are not hypoallergenic, as they produce a considerable amount of dander – one of the main dog allergens.
When it comes to shedding their hair, most pugs will blow their coat and shed.
Pugs are a heavy shedder, blowing their coats and shedding all year round.
Pugs with double coats shed more, with increased shedding occurring seasonally (twice a year); the dog’s skin physiology and coat qualities are affected by temperature changes.
Pugs with single coats undergo less shedding that occurs almost uniformly all year round.
Which pugs don’t shed?
There are three main types of pugs – fawn, black, and silver.
All three types of pugs will shed, with amounts differing based on the individual dog’s coat type.
Fawn pugs have a short and smooth single coat while black pugs feature a single coat; slightly longer and more course.
Silver pugs, on the other hand, have a long and silky double coat.
Neutered males will shed less than those that are intact.
How can I control my pug’s shedding?
There are many ways that you can control your pug’s shedding, such as:
Frequent bathing
This will help to remove loose hair and also reduce dander levels.
While bathing your dog, use a shampoo designed for them, as human shampoo can strip the natural oils from the coat.
Ideal dog shampoo and bathing products contain oatmeal, which helps to soothe the skin.
Grooming
Regularly brushing your pug’s coat will help remove dead hair and distribute natural oils throughout their coat.
Use a brush with soft bristles, which will be gentle on their skin.
You can also use a de-shedding tool to remove loose hair. Choose a de-shedding product suitable for your dog.
Providing a rich diet
A healthy diet is essential for all dogs but can also help reduce shedding.
Feeding your pug a diet rich in omega-3 or six fatty acids will help keep the skin and coat healthy.
You can find these nutrients in foods such as fish, flaxseed, and pumpkin seeds.
Providing supplements
Supplements have been identified as a potential way to reduce shedding.
One study found that a supplement containing biotin, vitamin E, omega-3, and six fatty acids helped reduce shedding in dogs.
However, speaking to your veterinarian before giving your pug any supplements is crucial, as some can be harmful.
Engaging them in exercises
Getting your pug enough exercise is vital for their overall health, but it can also help reduce shedding.
Exercise helps distribute the natural oils throughout the dog’s coat and also helps to reduce stress levels.
You can implement some or all of these measures/strategies to control your pug’s shedding.
Are there specific triggers to pugs’ shedding?
Some internal and external factors can trigger a pug to shed more, such as:
Hormonal changes – Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during puberty, pregnancy, and lactation, can increase your dog’s shedding.
Seasonal changes – The amount of daylight and the temperature can affect a pug’s shedding. Shedding typically increases in spring, falling when days are shorter, and temperatures start to cool.
Stress – Stressed dogs can shed more than those that aren’t. Many things can cause stress to your dog, including changes in the home (such as a new baby or pet) and varying routines.
Illness – Illness can also cause an increase in your pup’s shedding. Sick dogs may experience appetite loss leading to nutrient deficiencies that can trigger more shedding. Health conditions such as allergies, hypothyroidism, and Cushing’s disease can also cause increased shedding.
If you notice that your pug is shedding more than usual, speak to your veterinarian.
They’ll be able to rule out medical conditions which could cause increased shedding.
What are the best brushes for pugs?
When choosing a brush for your pug, selecting one designed for them is crucial.
Bristle brushes and rubber curry combs are two types that work well for pugs.
The best brush for your pug will depend on their coat type.
Some things to keep in mind when choosing a brush for your pug include:
The size of the brush – Choose a small brush to fit in your hand comfortably. This will make grooming easier and less painful for you and your dog.
The type of bristles – Bristle brushes come with natural or synthetic material. Natural bristles are typically made from horse or boar hair, while synthetic ones have nylon. Natural bristles are softer and less likely to damage the skin, but they may not be as effective at removing loose hair. Synthetic bristles are more durable and can be used on wet or dry coats.
The handle – The brush handle should be comfortable and easy to grip. Some brushes come with ergonomic handles, making them easier to hold for those with arthritis or other hand conditions.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What should I do if my pug is shedding too much?
There are many things you can do to help control your pug’s shedding, such as: bathing them frequently, regular grooming, providing healthy diets, and offering supplements.
You can also speak to your vet for a more individualized approach.
Do male pugs shed more than their female counterparts?
Yes, male pugs tend to shed more than females, particularly during the spring and fall molting seasons.
Is pugs’ shedding a sign of skin disease?
Shedding is typical for dogs and isn’t a sign of skin disease.
However, if you think your pug is shedding excessively, it could be a sign of a skin infection, allergy, or other medical condition.
In this case, consult your veterinarian for medical actions.
Do senior pugs shed?
All pugs shed, regardless of age.
However, senior pugs may shed more due to changes in hormone levels or other health conditions.
How often should I brush my pug?
You should brush your pug at least once a week to remove loose hair and help reduce shedding. However, some pugs may need to be brushed more often, especially during shedding seasons. If unsure how often to brush your pug, ask your veterinarian or groomer for guidance.
Conclusion
While all pugs shed, some shedding is more noticeable than others.
The amount of shedding also depends on your pug’s coat.
Pugs with single coats typically shed less than those with a double.
If you want to own a pug that sheds less, those with single coats will be ideal.
Pugs with double coats shed much more; however, you can efficiently control their shedding with regular grooming and other measures.
Hi, my name is Megan Turner and I have worked in a dog’s shelter for four years now. It is truly my dream job, and I see hundreds of dogs every month being united with new owners to give them a loving forever home.
Unfortunately, handicapped dogs are much more likely to be ignored when a family is picking out their new pet. Handicapped pets need more care than non-handicapped pets, so it is understandable why they are often harder to rehome.
