The pug dog food is not very different from the food recommended for smaller dog breeds. The pug is more prone to skin infections and respiratory problems; however, the food the dog gets may only deal with reducing the risks of skin infections.
Dog Food for Pugs
The dog food for pugs will not be different from the foods other dogs require.
You should make sure that you get your pet puppy food during the first few months of his life, to ensure the proper development of the bones. Switch to adult food when your dog has reached maturity and he is fully developed (typically at the age of 6 months).
It is important that the foods the dog gets are quality products, which will ensure that he will get all the nutrients he needs and will also have a healthy skin, preventing the skin infections that are common in pugs.
The pug is not a high activity level dog, so the protein and the fat requirements may be lower than in larger dogs. Consult your vet to see if the food you choose contains the right amounts of fat and proteins for your pet.
Supplements for Pugs
Unless the vet recommends supplements for your pug, you should avoid these, as they may be more harmful than beneficial.
The vet may recommend you several supplements, especially if your pet has a disease.
A supplement that may be administered without consulting the vet first is the omega 3 fatty acid, which can help your pet’s immune system and will ensure the health of his coat and skin. Vitamin E supplements are also essential for the health of the skin; however, you will have to consult your vet to find out the most suitable dose of vitamin E for your pug.
Commercial Food or Home Made Food?
When it comes to feeding your pug, it is important to decide whether you will be feeding him commercial food or home made food.
The commercial food may be suitable for the daily requirements of pugs, but you should rotate 2 or 3 brands of dog food per year for variety. When transitioning to a new brand of food, you will have to take at least 2 weeks to make sure the dog won’t have digestive problems such as diarrhea.
If you choose a home made food regimen for your pug, you will have to pay special attention to the amounts of proteins, fats and fibers that you administer on a daily basis. If your dog doesn’t get the nutrients he needs, he will have health problems and the coat will be in a poor condition. You may also feed your dog too many vitamins and minerals and these may be deposited in the form of kidney or bladder stones.
Choose healthy sources of proteins such as beef, chicken or fish.