Found yourself with an itchy Pug on your hands? If you’ve noticed your Pug itching more than usual, you might be feeling a bit confused or concerned.
But don’t worry.
We’re here to help.
There are many factors, both physical and environmental, that can cause your Pug to feel itchy.
In this article, we’ll be running you through all the main causes and providing some helpful tips to help you soothe your itchy Pug back to comfort.
Why is My Pug Itching?
The most common cause of itching in Pugs is irritation to the skin.
Itchy skin (or pruritus) is typically caused by fleas or dryness (sometimes as a result of age). Other possible causes include dermatitis, allergies, and sarcoptic mange.
Many Pug owners visit the vet seeking treatments and remedies for pruritus in Pugs.
Allergies
One of the biggest causes of itching in Pugs is allergies.
Signs to look out for include:
- Itching
- Upset tummy
- Changes in bowel movements
- Increased flatulence
- Skin irritations or rash
- Hot spots
- Wheezing, coughing or other breathing issues
- Irritated, red, or teary eyes
All dogs can suffer allergies and allergic reactions can be brought on by many different factors, including food, environment, and even contact allergies when your Pug comes into contact with certain materials.
Your vet will be able to diagnose what kind of allergy your Pug is suffering and prescribe the correct medication. Typically allergies are treated with topical medications, anti-inflammatories, and/or antihistamines.
Food allergies
Food allergies include allergic reactions to specific foods or additives.
Unfortunately, many low-quality dog foods are known to cause problems because they contain chemical preservatives, artificial colors, cheap fillers, and various bi-products.
Environmental allergens
Environmental triggers such as airborne allergens, pollen, and grasses are another common cause of Pug allergic reactions.
Simply keeping your Pug indoors is not enough to eliminate airborne particles.
Plus, many household products (e.g. air fresheners, aerosols, and cleaning sprays), can also be an irritant.
Contact allergies
This is the one people tend to least expect. Contact allergies occur when your Pug comes into contact with an object made from a material that causes irritation.
Low-quality pet products are often the culprit. Things like cheap bowls, muzzles, and toys could be what’s causing your Pug to itch.
Our advice is to avoid plastic-made products altogether. In most cases, stainless steel, ceramics, or natural materials are the safer option.
Top-tip: if your Pug seems to itch more after lying on their bed, check what the bed is made from.
If your Pug is resting on an irritant surface for long periods of time this will be extremely uncomfortable for them.
Be sure to provide your pet with a natural fiber blanket and always use hypo-allergenic detergent when washing their supplies.
Fleas
Another common cause of itching is all those pesky fleas. Nobody likes dealing with these little monsters, but if your Pug is scratching all over then there’s a good chance that fleas are the culprit.
Fleas will live, nestled into your Pug’s double coat, virtually undetected. Most often dogs pick up fleas whilst passing other canines on a walk. A single flea can cause severe discomfort.
Signs to look out for include:
- Itching
- A red/bumpy rash
- Hot spots
- Hair loss
- Scabbing
Skin infections
Itching is a common symptom of skin infection. Pugs are prone to developing skin infections due to their wrinkly faces and skin folds. Whether bacterial, fungal, parasitic, or yeast-based, that infection will need to be treated, pronto.
Signs to look out for include:
- Itching
- Rash
- Red areas
- Pustules
- Discharge
- Crusty skin
- Hair loss
- Dry skin
- Oily skin
- Musty skin
If you suspect that your Pug has a skin infection of some kind, you should visit your vet as soon as possible as your Pug might need prescription medications.
The weather
Believe it or not, the weather might be to blame. In some weather conditions, dogs can feel itchier.
Seasonal weather affects the skin, causing dryness and itching. It’s super important to protect your Pugs skin during those cold winter months and sweltering summers with moisturizers, and sunscreen.
Signs to look out for include:
- Itching
- Chewing
- Rubbing against surfaces
- Peeling/ flaking skin
- Hot spots
- Cracked/ broken skin
- Dry/ brittle fur
How to Help an Itchy Pug
Now we know what might be causing that itch, it’s time to help our Pugs get some relief. The first port of call is to assess your Pug and try to figure out what needs particular attention. If you’re not sure what’s causing your Pug’s irritation ask your vet for advice.
Here are some things you can try at home that will help get that itching under control.
Topical sprays
If your Pug has one specific area that’s irritating them, then a topical spray might be just the right thing for them. You’ll be able to spritz the product directly over the itchy area.
You should be able to find a variety of topical sprays in your local pet store, or your vet may be able to prescribe a medicated spray.
Hot spot sprays
Hot spots are inflamed skin lesions that become exacerbated by scratching.
Sprays designed for relieving hot spots are typically non-medicated and will soothe those saw areas.
We recommend looking for an all-natural spray to prevent any further irritation.
Anti-itch sprays
Medicated anti-itch sprays are designed for chronic, intense itching. These products are best for very irritated or swollen skin. Most of these sprays include topical hydrocortisone for reduced swelling and lidocaine for pain relief.
There are also natural anti-itch sprays out there. Natural remedies are great for minor itching or as a secondary treatment after a course of medicated anti-itching sprays.
Popular ingredients include oatmeal, soda, wheat germ, and vitamins. Natural remedies are much safer as they contain non-toxic ingredients that pose no risk to your Pug should they lick the irritated area. However, they may not be able to treat severe skin irritations.
Shampoos & lotions
The right shampoo or lotion can do wonders for an itchy dog. If your Pug is experiencing mild, all-over itching then using a soothing shampoo will allow you to coat their entire body. If your Pug is suffering from itching, it’s okay to increase the frequency of their baths.
For very damaged and delicate skin, a gentle lotion will soothe the discomfort and promote healing. Make sure that you’re using a lotion that’s fit for your purpose and won’t cause further irritation. Likewise, it’s never a good idea to apply products to open sores.
Dietary changes
Itchy skin is often brought on by food allergies or allergic reactions to the ingredients contained in pre-packaged dog foods. It’s important to know what you are feeding your Pug.
If you are going to feed them a shop-bought kibble or wet food then make sure it’s a high quality one with natural ingredients and zero additives.
When looking at the back of the packet, check to see how the food is preserved. A natural feed will use vitamins, not chemicals as preservatives.
Ingredients to avoid include:
- Artificial coloring
- Artificial flavoring
- Too much grain
- Corn
- Soy
- Meat by-products
Some pet owners swear by supplements. Dietary supplements such as fish oil can help combat and prevent further itching. Giving your Pug a daily dose of high-quality omega-fish oil derived from wild fish is a great way to keep itching at bay.
Top-tip: Tap water is full of toxins so make sure your Pug is drinking filtered or spring water.
Keep allergens out of the home
Sometimes the allergens causing your Pug to itch and scratch are airborne. It’s virtually impossible to eradicate these completely, but there are steps we can take to limit the allergens in our homes.
Make sure you’re regularly cleaning your home of any possible allergens. Vacuuming, wet-dusting, and washing linens, sheets, and any of your Pug’s own bed covers are a must. You may also consider getting a portable air purifier for your home.
Removing shoes before entering the home and wiping your Pug down after yard time are also simple but effective ways to limit the spread of airborne allergens.
Try some natural remedies
Instead of shop-bought products, why not try making some natural remedies for your Pug’s skin. For mild irritation, home remedies can do a world of good. Plus, you’ll know exactly what ingredients are going onto your Pug’s precious skin.
One popular home remedy often used by Pug owners is an oatmeal bath. You can use this for your Pug’s itchy feet, or even over their whole body.
Simply fill a tub with warm water and add approximately half a cup of cordial oatmeal. Let your Pug soak for 5-10 minutes then dry them off with a clean towel.
Check the video to understand 5 ways that could stop dogs from itchy.
When to Visit Your Vet
Treating itchiness at home is often very effective.
However, if your Pug starts to have frequent or persistent itching or licking, irritability due to itching, loss of appetite or depression, visit your vet ASAP.
Pug Itching: Last Words
If your Pug has an itch they just can’t scratch, there are lots of things you can do to help.
From topical ointments to natural remedies, you’ll soon be able to get your Pug to stop scratching. And remember, if itching persists it’s time to take a trip to the vet.
Image from Pinterest.