Why Are Pugs Prone to Dental Problems?

Pugs are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have short, flat faces. While adorable, this facial structure causes their 42 adult teeth to be crammed into a small jaw, leading to:

• Overcrowding: Teeth are tightly packed, making cleaning difficult.

• Misalignment: Crooked teeth create pockets where food and bacteria collect.

• Mouth breathing: Common in Pugs, which dries out the mouth and reduces natural cleaning from saliva.

These factors make Pugs especially vulnerable to plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay2.

Common Dental Issues in Pugs

1. Periodontal Disease

• What it is: Infection and inflammation of the gums and supporting structures.

• Signs:

  • Bad breath

  • Red, swollen gums

  • Bleeding when chewing or brushing

  • Loose or missing teeth

• Why it matters: Can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even heart or kidney issues if bacteria enter the bloodstream.

2. Tooth Overcrowding & Misalignment

• What it is: Teeth grow at odd angles or overlap.

• Signs:

  • Visible crooked teeth

  • Difficulty chewing

  • Food stuck between teeth

• Why it matters: Increases risk of plaque buildup and gum irritation.

3. Retained Baby Teeth

• What it is: Baby teeth that don’t fall out when adult teeth come in.

• Signs:

  • Double rows of teeth

  • Crowding or misalignment

• Why it matters: Can cause long-term dental issues if not removed.

4. Tooth Root Abscesses

• What it is: Infection at the root of a tooth.

• Signs:

  • Swelling under the eye or jaw

  • Pain when eating

  • Pus or discharge

• Why it matters: Can be very painful and may require extraction.

What to Watch For

Keep an eye out for these warning signs:

• Persistent bad breath

• Drooling or pawing at the mouth

• Difficulty eating or chewing

• Yellow or brown tartar buildup

• Bleeding gums

• Loose or missing teeth

• Swelling around the face or jaw

What Can a Vet Do?

Your vet plays a key role in managing dental health:

• Dental exams: During routine checkups

• Professional cleanings: Under anesthesia to remove tartar and check for hidden issues

• X-rays: To assess tooth roots and jawbone health

• Extractions: For damaged or infected teeth

• Antibiotics or pain relief: If infection is present

Note: Dental procedures can be costly—sometimes up to £900 if X-rays and multiple extractions are needed.

At-Home Dental Care Tips

Daily care is the best prevention. Here’s how to help your Pug’s pearly whites:

• Brush daily: Use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste (never human toothpaste).

• Dental chews: Choose vet-approved options that help reduce plaque.

• Water additives: Some help reduce bacteria in the mouth.

• Dental diets: Special kibble can help clean teeth as your dog chews.

• Regular checks: Lift the lips and inspect the gums and teeth weekly.

Can Dental Disease Be Prevented?

You can’t change your Pug’s anatomy, but you can reduce the risk of dental disease by:

• Starting dental care early (as a puppy)

• Keeping up with regular vet visits

• Maintaining a consistent at-home routine

• Watching for early signs of trouble

Final Thoughts

Dental disease in Pugs is common but manageable. With a little daily effort and regular vet care, your Pug can enjoy a healthy, pain-free mouth well into their senior years. And remember—just because they’re still eating doesn’t mean their mouth is healthy. Dogs are tough and often hide pain.