A reader wants to know how to choose a healthy Pug puppy. Knowing what signs point to a healthy Pug puppy is vitally important when choosing a dog.
Q: How do I know if a Pug puppy is healthy? ~ Ashley T.
A: Hi Ashley, this is an important question. When you are ready to bring a puppy into your home, you will want to do all you can to choose a healthy Pug puppy. There are some signs to look for.
The Eyes: The eyes are not only the window to the soul, they can also give you a clue about the health of the dog. Watering, squinting or a glazey film on the eyes is a sign of health issues.
Breathing: Hold the puppy close to your ear and listen carefully. Do you hear rattling and rasping? This is a sign of a breathing problem. Does the puppy have to breath through his or her mouth? If the puppy is at rest, they should be able to breath fine with their mouth closed. If not, this can be a sign of a blockage; a serious medical issue.
Activity: Puppies should have tons of energy and be active. If you are looking at a dog that lays limp and does not move much, this can point to a wide variety of medical issues that are preventing that puppy to be active and healthy. Your prospective new family member should be excited to see you and eager to play. If they display growling or avoidance, this is not a good beginning of owning a pet.
Gums: The gums of the pup should not be puffy, red or inflamed. This is a clear sign of an infection and illness.
While all puppies are cute and most people want to bring home the first one they see, it is best if you take your time to look for these health signs and make an informed decision.