Sure, it’s great to see signs of spring after a long, cold winter. The nicer weather makes just about everyone want to get outdoors, and of course, there’s no better company than your favorite little Pug! Pugs love to take a good walk with their owner, but you may not realize how sensitive they can be to warmer weather. A hot and humid day should be a red flag for all Pug lovers.
The reason to be concerned about your Pug’s well-being is the construction of his nostrils. That short snout that makes them so adorable can also be the cause of some respiratory problems if you’re not careful. Pugs are a brachycephalic breed that is characterized by a short muzzle and wide head. Due to this construction, the nostrils are narrower. Your Pug probably snores when he is fast asleep. For most owners, this makes them more endearing because there is nothing cuter than a sleeping Pug. While snoring can be very annoying to a human, somehow a sleeping, snoring Pug can be considered downright adorable.
As an owner, you should be aware of this breed’s tendency to be more prone to respiratory problems, which can be even more pronounced in hot weather. Avoid brisk walks on a hot day because your Pug will always try to keep up with you. He doesn’t know enough to slow down and by the time you notice his wheezing and shortness of breath, he may have an overheated Pug on his hands.
The best advice, just like for humans, is to take it easy with your Pug on a hot day. This is especially true when the humidity is high and your breathing can be even more labored. Always have plenty of fresh water for your Pug and never put him in a position where he has to spend a lot of time in direct sun. If your Pug is on a leash, make sure there is a shaded area for him when the weather is warm. And consider how the shaded area of the garden may change during the day.
Of course, you should never leave your Pug (or any other dog or cat) alone in a car without air. Never, ever do that, even if you’re absolutely sure you’ll be just for a minute. On a hot day, an unventilated car can become an oven and it won’t take long for your Pug to be affected by the heat. Make no mistake, staying in a hot, unventilated area on a hot day can literally kill your Pug.
It is best to be aware of the weather conditions for your Pug. They are sensitive to heat and cold. If you feel uncomfortable, chances are good that your Pug will feel uncomfortable too. The difference is that he won’t be able to tell you. As any Pug owner will tell you, a Pug can be his best friend. In the hot and humid weather, it’s important that you be best friends with him too.