One in 3 pugs has problem with walking

ONE in three pugs suffer from lameness and other walking problems, a study found.

It has long been known that the dogs’ flat faces can mean they have difficulty breathing, which can lead to big vets’ bills.

Now after questioning 550 pug owners, researchers have found that 31 per cent of their dogs had gait abnormalities.

This includes problems in walking and jumping, lameness, poor co- ordination and abnormal wearing of the nails and skin on the dogs’ paws.

The researchers, from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, based their findings on the owners’ responses to questions and analysis of videos they sent in of their dogs walking. The problems are thought to be linked to inbreeding.

The dogs’ mournful eyes and wrinkly faces have made them popular with celebrities such as Lady Gaga and David Beckham. The breed has also become fashionable among advertisers who believe images of pugs help sell their products.

John Fishwick, of the British Veterinary Association, said: ‘The popularity of pugs and other flat-faced breeds is being fuelled by celebrity owners and social media perpetuating a “cute” image of these dogs, but, sadly, the reality is that many will suffer serious and life-limiting health and welfare problems.

‘These problems are distressing for the animals and can be costly for the owners to treat. If you’re looking for a dog, we’d advise choosing a healthier breed or crossbreed instead.’