Do Pugs have a double coat, and what is it? If you’re reading this article, you’ve likely noticed your Pug sheds excessively, or someone such as a breeder may have told you that Pugs have double coats. Well, you’re in the right place. We’re going to look at the Pug double coat. What is it, and how to tell what kind your four-legged friend has.
Do Pugs Have a Double Coat?
Pugs are toy breed dogs with a thick coat. Most non-black colored Pugs (fawn, silver, brindle, apricot, etc.) have a double coat that helps protect them from the extreme temperatures of both the summer and winter.
So what does this mean for you? It just means that your small lap dog requires more maintenance than other breeds. It also means that you’ll notice more hair on your couch, bed, clothing, and home. While you can’t stop a dog from shedding, you can control it.
But first, we need to look at what a double coat is, especially if you’re new to having a Pug or thinking about getting one.
So, What Is A Double Coat?
A double coat means that your dog has two layers of hair—one layer of hair on the top and small short guard hairs under the top layer.
Guard Hairs
The top layer or topcoat on a Pug is relatively short, but it’s a thick coat. If you’ve ever run your fingers through the coat of a Pug, it may have a wool-life feel underneath the fur. Of course, every dog is unique, and some Pugs will have soft hair than others.
Regardless, your pup likely has a top layer of hair that acts as a barrier to repel water debris.
Undercoat
The undercoat is a dense layer of short lighter in color and acts as an insulator to protect this small dog from the extreme elements.
Pugs are brachycephalic dogs, which means they don’t do well in extremely hot or humid weather. Their undercoat is vital to keeping them cool in the summer, which is why you should never shave your Pug.
Double coated dogs are not uncommon. Here’s a list of several other double-coated dog breeds.
How To Tell If Your Pug Has A Double Coat?
Unless you’ve been around dogs your whole life or you’re a dog groomer, it’s not as easy to spot a double-coated and single-coated dog. Sure, you can run your hand through a Pugs hair, but most people won’t be able to tell.
As I said, not all Pugs have a double coat. Here are some defining characteristics that will help you understand what type of fur your four-legged friend.
Seasonal Shedding
Like humans, all dogs lose some hair throughout the year. However, your dog’s shedding will be less noticeable if you have a single coated dog. Double coated Pugs shed a lot. Their seasonal shedding period will be more extended than a single coated dog.
Additionally, they will shed fur more often, especially if you live in a warmer climate year-round.
Just Look
The easiest way to tell if your Pug has a double coat is just to look. Take your hand or your dog’s brush and separate the fur down close to the skin.
If your dog has a double coat, you’ll notice a fuzzy layer of fur under their topcoat that soft and dense, similar to a duck down. Sometimes it can be challenging to spot, especially since it can be very a very dense layer of fur.
Possible Dewlap
A dewlap or “wet neck” is characterized as saggy skin around a dog’s throat and lower muzzle. Shar-Peis, Mastiffs, and popular breeds are known to have dewlaps. Pugs normally don’t have dewlaps but do have loose skin or skin folds on their foreheads.
Not all dogs with dewlaps have a double coat, but many dogs with dewlaps also have two coats.
That said, some Pugs, especially if you don’t have a purebred, can have a dewlap, although it’s not extremely common.
Ask Your Groomer
If you still can’t tell, then ask your groomer or veterinarian. These professionals will be able to take one look at your dog and let you know whether your Pug has an undercoat or not.
You should never feel silly asking your veterinarian any questions regarding your pet. They understand that most people are not experts in dogs, and they expect you to ask questions, even something as simple as this.
It may seem like a trivial question, but every pet owner should know the basics about their dog’s fur.
What Pugs Have Double Coats?
Like all dogs, Pugs come in different colors, which means that not all of them will have a double coat. While white Pugs do exist, it’s not the actual color of their coat but a form of Albinism.
Ask any Pug owner, and some will say their brindle Pug sheds like crazy while their black Pug hardly sheds at all.
It’s because most black Pugs have a single coat. Some black Pugs can have a double coat, so be sure you use the tips above to check our dog’s fur.
Why Do Some Black Pugs Have A Single Coat?
Most black Pugs will have a single coat, which is likely because they are rarer than the fawn-colored ones. The silver and apricot ones are even rarer.
Your dog’s genetics will determine what color, and fur type they are born with. If you have two Pugs from the same litter, one may have a double coat and the sibling doesn’t. Just like humans, no two dogs are the same.
According to the AKC, they only recognize this breed in three colors. So, it’s essential to keep that in mind before getting a Pug, especially if you’re looking for a show dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pugs Double Coated?
Most non-black Pugs will have a double coat. That said, it’s still important to check your dog’s fur as every dog is different. Even if you have two Pugs from the same litter, their coat will differ.
Final Word
If you have a non-black Pug, your dog likely has a double coat. As a pet owner, you should know what type of coat your dog has. It makes it easier to care for your dog’s hair and understand what to expect regarding shedding.
You don’t need to be a “coat expert,” but understanding the basics will help you. Whether you’re looking to get a new puppy or already have one, you now know how to tell what type of fur it has and how to keep it in top shape.
The more you know about your dog’s fur will help you keep your home clean while providing the right TLC for your four-legged friend!