Pugs are easily one of the cutest dogs in the world. They are feisty, quirky dogs with adorable faces anyone could love. However, like with any dog breed, if you decide to bring a Pug into your home, you need to know as much about them as possible, even how long their life span can be. While properly caring for a dog is the best way to keep them with you longer, these needs change with every breed. However, on average Pugs live from 13 to 15 years. Let’s take a look at how long your Pug can be expected to be with you and how you can make that last even longer.
What’s the Average Lifespan of a Pug?
The average lifespan for a Pug is 13 to 15 years. While this sounds like no time at all, it is actually a decent lifespan for dogs. As a smaller dog breed, Pugs will naturally live longer than their large cousins. Don’t panic, however, if you still think that seems short. There is a Pug on record that lived 27 years, so your baby could be around for a long time.
Why Do Some Pugs Live Longer Than Others?
1. Nutrition
Nutrition is a crucial part of helping any pet in your home live a longer life. This is especially true for a Pug considering they are prone to issues with obesity. A Pug that is fed a well-balanced, high-quality dog food has a better chance at good health. You should also reach out to your veterinarian for serving sizes and other suggestions based on your Pug’s age and weight.
2. Environment and Conditions
Pugs aren’t a dog breed that does well outside. This is largely due to their breathing issues. These little dogs are intended to be lap dogs. Allowing your Pug to live indoors in a safe, clean environment will help them thrive. You’ll also see that Pugs are prone to separation anxiety and need company. If you don’t have the time to dedicate to a sensitive dog like a Pug, it could be best to avoid bringing one into your home.
3. Size
Small and medium-sized dog breeds tend to live longer than large breeds. This is due to the strain size can put on a dog’s body. Pugs fall into the smaller dog category. This means, without any pressing health conditions, your Pug could live longer than large breed dogs you’ve had in the past.
4. Sex
Generally, female dogs seem to live longer than their male counterparts. This isn’t definite, however. No matter your dog’s sex, having them spayed or neutered helps extend their lives. Don’t let the idea that females often live longer sway you from bringing home a male Pug. As it turns out, the oldest Pug on record was male.
5. Breeding History
Unfortunately, purebred dogs often live shorter lives than mixed breeds. This is due to them inheriting health conditions through their genetics. When you speak with a breeder about bringing a Pug into your home, make sure they give you all the information about your Pug’s family and breeding history. You also want any medical records they have. If a breeder is unwilling to share this type of information, they aren’t the one you want to work with.
6. Healthcare
You should be prepared to offer a Pug proper medical care if you want them to live a long life. Pugs are known for being obese. They are also a brachycephalic breed which means they have short snouts and difficulty breathing. Like with any new dog you bring home, start with a visit to the veterinarian to get started on vaccines and routine health care so your dog does well healthwise.
The 4 Life Stages of a Pug
Puppy
A Pug does its most important development during the puppy stage. This stage lasts from birth to around 6 months. When they are born, puppies’ eyes and ears are closed. After about 2 weeks, these open and the new pup will begin to explore. A Pug is considered a puppy until it reaches sexual maturity, however, as a small dog breed, this often happens faster than with other dogs.
Young Adult
Lasting from around 6 months to 12 months is your Pug’s young adult stage. If you were comparing it to humans, this would be their teenage years. Your Pug can reproduce but that doesn’t mean they are fully mature.
Mature Adult
At around a year of age, a Pug will become a mature adult. They will still love you and want all your attention, they just aren’t considered puppies anymore and can easily reproduce if they aren’t spayed or neutered. This stage lasts from 1 to 7 years.
Senior
Once your Pug turns 8 or 9, they will be considered a senior dog. You may notice that your Pug is slowing down a bit, sleeping more, and can even be grumpy. They will need more frequent visits to the vet to keep them healthy and possibly a dietary change.
How to Tell Your Pug’s Age
It’s a bit easier to tell a dog’s age than a human’s. Let’s take a look at a few things you can check to help you determine how old your Pug is.
Conclusion
All dog lovers want to keep their dogs with them as long as possible. Unfortunately, they can’t stay with us forever. For Pug owners, while it may seem short, 13–15 years is a good lifespan for a dog. Instead of worrying if you’ll lose your best friend, simply do everything you can to extend their life and make it the best possible.
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Featured Image Credit: Poltavets Anastasiia, Shutterstock
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