Regular grooming is required for all Pugs, no matter what coat type they have. However, grooming is essential for a double coated Pug because of the extreme shedding, maintenance of your dog’s fur, allergies, and just keeping your home clean. We’ll share some of the most common mistakes people make that can damage your pet’s coat.
Grooming Mistakes You’re Making With Your Double Coated Pug
It’s essential to set up a routine for your double-coated dog. The longer time between grooming can make it more challenging for you. Below are some of the most common to avoid with your dog.
- You’re shaving your Pug.
- You don’t brush your dog often enough.
- Don’t use any shampoo made for people.
- Avoid bathing your dog too often.
- You’re using the wrong tools.
- You forget to groom your dog’s undercoat.
- You’re too rough and in a hurry.
We’ll cover these mistakes in further detail below and share how to fix them. Before you try grooming your pup, make sure you know what type of coat your Pug has. It will make your job easier to provide the right TLC for their coat.
Now let’s go into more depth on the common grooming mistakes people make with their dogs.
#1 You’re Shaving Your Pug
One of the biggest mistakes you can make with your double-coated dog, is to shave them. Why would you do that? Well, some people mistakenly believe if they shave their Pug’s coat, it will help keep them cool in the summer.
It’s the wrong way to think, as your dog’s coat acts as an insulator to keep them cool in the summer and protect their skin against damage from the sun. Find out why you should never shave your Pug, especially if you’re considering it.
#2 You’re Using the Wrong Shampoo
Never use human shampoo on your dog. According to the Vet Help Direct website, human shampoo is too acidic for a dog’s skin. A dog’s skin pH level is around 7-7.5, while a human’s skin has an acidic pH of 5.2-5.5.
This means that human shampoo, even baby shampoo, can damage your dog’s skin. Pugs are brachycephalic dogs, which means they are predisposed to allergies and skin conditions. Be sure you check out this list of the best shampoos for Pug dogs that won’t cause irritations.
#3 You’re Bathing Your Pug Too Often
A small dog like a Pug doesn’t need to bathed every day, regardless of what type of coat they have. Too much bathing can cause havoc on your dog’s skin and coat. Here’s how often you should bathe your Pug.
So, what do you do in between bath schedules? Well, wipes will become your best friend, especially for cleaning your dog’s face and skin folds. Waterless shampoos are also another excellent option for keeping your dog smelling fresh.
#4 You’re Using The Wrong Grooming Tools
Most people who have two dogs believe they can use the same grooming tools for both dogs. However, if your dogs have different coat types, you can’t use the same grooming tools for both dogs.
Even if you have a large breed double-coated dog with long hair, you’ll still need different grooming tools for your Pug. If you’ve ever shopped for a pet brush, you’ll notice that it states explicitly what type of dog breed it is best suited for.
For example, sleeker brushes are preferred for long-haired breeds, while slicker brushes work best for dogs with short hair and can help remove loose hair on the undercoat.
Before grooming your Pug, ensure you’re using the right tools designed for their fur type, skin sensitivity, and ease of use.
Pro Tip: Be sure to check out our recommended products page of resources for Pug owners. You’ll find tools that are catered specifically for this dog breed. . Check out the products we recommend right here.
#5 You’re Not Brushing Them Often Enough
It’s easy to ignore our dog’s hygiene and grooming, especially when we have so much going on in our lives. Pugs shed a lot, and one of the best things you can do to keep the shedding to a minimum is to brush them 3-5 times a week.
Regular brushing will not only control the shedding, but it will also prevent your dog’s fur from matting up and looking terrible. It will also help your dog get used to the routine, which will make your job easier.
#6 You’re Neglecting Your Dog’s Undercoat
Most people make the mistake of only caring for their dog’s topcoat. Remember, your dog has both a top coat and a soft undercoat that need attention.
When brushing your dog’s topcoat, don’t forget the undercoat. Depending on the season, your dog may be blowing its coat, which means transitioning from her winter coat to her summer coat or vice versa.
If this is the case, you’ll notice your dog losing more hair than usual. It can even fall out in clumps during this cycle. Unlike other breeds, the Pug shedding season lasts longer, so you’ll want to familiarize yourself with it as it can help you control the dog hair in your home.
#7 You’re Being too Rough and too Much In A Hurry
Most people don’t realize it, but they may be applying too much pressure when they’re brushing their dog, which is causing your dog pain. If this is the case, your dog hates being brushed, and you hate the process because your dog is scared and won’t come when you call them.
This means you’re neglecting regular grooming, and your dog is not getting the TLC they deserve. As mentioned above, a slicker brush works best for your Pug’s short hair.
That said, it’s important to watch for any signs that you’re hurting your dog or using the wrong tools. If you notice your dog flinching, won’t come to you or hides when it’s grooming time, they’ve likely associated brushing as a bad experience.
Final Word
If you’ve been making any of the mistakes above, that’s okay. Now that you know your double-coated pup needs special care and attention, you now have the information to make those changes.
Most pet parents groom their Pug at home. If this is your first time owning a Pug, it’ll take time, practice, and plenty of treats to get your dog used to regular grooming and hygiene care.
With proper practice and a daily routine, your dog will become a happy, healthy, and good-looking dog that enjoys grooming time.
You’ll enjoy the fact that your dog will shed less in your home and the bonding time with your four-legged friend!