Imagine trying to breathe through a straw while running a marathon—that’s a bit like what mealtime can feel like for a Pug. With their flat faces, compact frames, and endless appetite, feeding a pug isn’t as simple as tossing kibble into a bowl. It’s a balancing act between preventing obesity, easing breathing issues, and avoiding food allergies that can turn their trademark wrinkles into itchy red patches. In this guide, we’ll reveal the best dog foods for pugs, crucial breed-specific dietary guidelines, and other smart feeding tips to keep those curly tails wagging.
What Is The Best Food For Pugs?
The best food for a Pug is one that’s balanced and specifically tailored to their life stage, health status, activity level, and weight. This ensures your Pug stays healthy, grows properly, and maintains the energy needed for daily adventures and overall bodily function. It’s also essential to consider individual preferences, like taste, texture, and food format. While some Pugs thrive on high-quality commercial kibble, others may do better with fresh, raw, or carefully balanced home-cooked meals.
How to Pick The Best Dog Food For Pugs
1. Consider The Nutritional Requirements of Pugs: The optimal Pug diet typically includes a combination of these six nutrients:
Protein plays a vital role in a dog’s diets, providing essential amino acids necessary for bodily processes, including the creation of blood glucose for energy. Protein also helps build and repair muscles and other body tissues. It’s necessary to produce new skin cells and grow hair, as well as hormones and enzymes. The proteins in your dog’s diet must have a balanced amino acid profile and be provided in appropriate amounts.
Minimum protein content recommendations for dogs:
Adult:18% dry matter protein (45.0g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
Puppies & pregnant or lactating: 22.5% dry matter protein (56.3g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
Fats play a crucial, multifaceted role in a dog’s diet. Fats come in two forms: saturated and unsaturated. Both are essential to maintain the right balance. Saturated fats, derived from animal sources, enhance the palatability, flavor and texture of your dog’s food and facilitate the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. On the other hand, essential fatty acids, which are unsaturated fats, include Omega-3 (EPA, DHA, and ALA) and Omega-6 and Omega-9 (LA and AA). These fats are crucial for the development, structure, and function of the body’s cells.
When balanced correctly, they promote healthy skin and coat, support eye health and the nervous system function, regulate hormones, fuel the brain and learning processes, help reduce inflammation, offer insulation and organ protection, support reproductive health, and serve as a reserve for energy storage.
Minimum fat content recommendations for dogs:
Adult: 5.5% dry matter fat (13.8g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
Puppies & pregnant or lactating: 8.5% dry matter fat (21.3g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
Fat sources for dogs include:
Meats fats
Fish oils
Olive
Sunflower oil
Canola oils
Dogs need energy for daily activities, growth, pregnancy, lactation, and exercise. This energy, measured in calories, comes from carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Omnivorous animals, including dogs, derive some energy from carbohydrates. Carbohydrates supply glucose is needed by the brain, nervous system, and other critical organs for normal function in dogs. Carbohydrates should also include 2.5-4.5% fiber.
Minerals in a dog’s diet are indispensable for bone and dental health, nerve function, enzymatic reactions, fluid balance, oxygen transport, and maintaining the body’s pH level, making them essential for overall health and metabolic processes. Maintaining a proper mineral balance is crucial and should be carefully managed to prevent deficiencies or excesses.
These 12 minerals are known to be essential nutrients for dogs:
Calcium
Potassium
Sodium
Magnesium
Iodine
Chlorine
Iron
Copper
Selenium
Manganese
Zinc
Phosphorus
Mineral sources for dogs include:
Sweet potatoes and pumpkin (Magnesium)
Fish (Iodine)
Beef, eggs, and liver (Zinc)
Poultry, nuts, and legumes (Copper)
Bananas and carrots (Potassium)
Chicken and duck (Iron)
Vitamins in a dog’s diet are integral for maintaining overall health and bodily functions. They support vision and immune health, aid in energy metabolism and nervous system function, provide antioxidant benefits, reduce inflammation, prevent diseases and ailments, and more. Dogs require vitamins, but only in small amounts. Excessive doses of specific vitamins, such as vitamin D, can be harmful to them.
These 12 vitamins are known to be essential nutrients for dogs:
Water is vital in a dog’s diet to maintain hydration, support body functions such as digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste excretion, lubricate joints, regulate body temperature, ensure proper organ function, and facilitate metabolic processes. Continuous access to clean water is as crucial as providing nutritious food for overall health and well-being. Generally, dogs should drink 2 to 3 times the amount of their dry food intake daily. However, if water is readily available from various sources, dogs can naturally regulate water consumption daily.
2. Consider Your Pug‘s Activity Level: Pick a formula that matches your Pug’s nutritional needs based on their activity level.
Nutritional Breakdown by Activity Level for Pugs
3. Pug Diet Health Considerations: Consider common health issues in Pugs to ensure their diet includes the right ingredients and nutrients to help prevent or manage these conditions.
Health Issue
Dietary Recommendations
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
Feed smaller, more frequent meals to reduce gulping. Use easily digestible, anti-inflammatory ingredients. Avoid allergens and additives that may trigger respiratory inflammation.
Obesity
Focus on calorie-controlled meals with moderate fat and high fiber. Incorporate lean proteins like chicken or turkey. Limit treats and avoid high-calorie table scraps.
Skin Fold Dermatitis
Choose hypoallergenic diets with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin health. Avoid grains and artificial preservatives that may worsen inflammation.
Allergies (Food & Environmental)
Opt for limited-ingredient or novel protein diets. Eliminate common triggers like beef, chicken, corn, or wheat. Look for added probiotics and prebiotics to support gut and immune health.
Hip Dysplasia & Joint Problems
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on joints. Include glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s. Avoid excess calcium or phosphorus in young pugs to prevent growth issues.
Eye Conditions (e.g., corneal ulcers)
Offer foods rich in antioxidants like lutein, beta-carotene, and vitamin E. Support overall immune health with zinc and vitamin C. Avoid foods that may cause inflammation.
Dental Disease
Provide crunchy kibble or dental chews to promote oral hygiene. Avoid sticky or soft foods. Diets fortified with minerals like zinc can help reduce plaque buildup.
4. Consider Your Pug Life Stage: A dog’s life stage affects their nutritional needs and calorie intake, so choose a formula that’s appropriate for their age.
Puppy: Requires a diet higher in calories, nutrients, and protein count to support its growth and development.
Adult: Moderate calorie and protein content. Caloric intake should match activity level to prevent obesity.
Senior: Lower calorie needs, with a focus on easily digestible proteins, fiber, and supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health.
Pregnant: Increased calorie needs, particularly in the last weeks of pregnancy, with a high protein content to support fetal development and milk production.
Use our dog calorie calculator to find the exact caloric needs of your dog based on his life stage. Ensure you follow the 10% rule when feeding treats to your dog. Food would equal 90% of the total calories, and treats the remaining 10%.
Always consult your veterinarian before changing your dog’s diet. You can get personalized nutritional advice from an online registered vet nutritionist through Vetster anytime, anywhere. You can also chat with an online vet and ask them questions about your dog’s nutritional needs. Similarly, an at-home dog gut health test can provide valuable insights by analyzing your dog’s microbiome, helping you determine which nutrients their diet should contain. Additionally, an at-home dog allergy testing kit can help identify which ingredients may not be suitable for your dog. This information lets you confidently choose the right diet and care plan to support optimal digestion and nutrition.
Best Dog Food For Pugs
Here are the best dog foods for Pugs this year.
Best Overall Dog Food For Pugs
4.9
★★★★★
Ollie
Who It's For: Dog owners who want to provide their dogs with the most optimal nutrition, highest quality ingredients, great taste, and the health benefits of a fresh diet.
Why we recommended it:Ollie uses human-grade ingredients to craft pre-portioned recipes delivered directly to your doorstep. Feeding your dog Ollie comes with numerous scientifically supported health benefits of fresh dog food, including longer lifespans, better digestibility, higher energy levels, and more. Fresh recipes are also ideal for dogs with food allergies, sensitive stomachs, or other dietary concerns because they avoid cheap fillers, additives, and harmful chemicals. Unlike traditional kibble, Ollie is gently cooked from scratch, ensuring all nutritional integrity is retained — this means that your dog will receive the healthiest and most nutritious meal with every serving.
What sets it apart from competitors: Ollie offers an extensive dog profile and diet customization to meet your dog's specific dietary needs, including calorie intake, age, size, preferences, health issues (such as allergies, cancer, and obesity), and more.
Key Features
Freshly delivered. Food is flash frozen and immediately delivered after cooking.
Human-grade. Cooked in human-grade kitchens with human-grade ingredients.
Excellent ingredient sourcing. They use reputable food suppliers, local farms, and other human food purveyors that meet USDA standards.
Pros
The level of customization is unmatched
Packaged as daily portions for easy serving
Never use feed-grade ingredients
Formulated by board-certified veterinary nutritionists
Cons
It’s on the expensive side
Thawing is required before serving
Get 50% OFF your first order with Canine Bible's link.
Why we recommended it:The Honest Kitchen is the pioneer brand of human-grade dog food. It uses 100% human-grade ingredients, ensuring safety and higher nutritional value. This makes them a superior choice compared to conventional kibble. The Honest Kitchen's whole food cluster recipes are roasted and dehydrated to preserve nutrients and flavor, maximizing nutritional integrity. The Honest Kitchen is a superfood-powered kibble featuring functional ingredients that support and boost gut, skin, and coat health, immunity, heart health, weight management, and more.
What sets it apart from competitors: Their preparation methods and facilities meet safety standards 7x those of feed-grade. Their food is made in a facility that produces human food.
Key Features
Vet recommended. Recommended by Leilani Alvarez, DVM, DACVSMR, Director of Integrative & Rehabilitative Medicine, Animal Medical Center, NY.
Digestive health. It contains naturally occurring prebiotics and probiotics to help regulate the dog microbiome.
FDA human-grade. First pet food company to obtain approval from the FDA to use the term “human grade” on its products.
Pros
Made with USDA meat proteins, vegetables, and fruits
Exceeds industry standards
No artificial flavors, preservatives, or by-products
Cheaper than fresh dog food
Crunchy texture
Cons
It’s a bit more expensive than traditional kibble. NUTRO Ultra dry dog food is another great alternative for those seeking a more traditional dry dog food option that’s less expensive.
Get 40% OFF your order with code 40CANINE— Just use thislink to get started.
Best Wet Dog Food For Pugs
4.8
★★★★★
JustFoodForDogs
Who It's For: Excellent for dogs who prefer the rich aroma, soft texture, and taste of wet food or those with sensitive teeth or dental issues.
Why we recommended it:JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh is our pick for the best natural dog foods because it offers fresh, whole-food nutrition in a shelf-stable, preservative-free format. Unlike traditional wet dog food, Pantry Fresh meals are made with 100% human-grade ingredients and are lightly cooked to retain nutrients while ensuring safety, digestibility, and optimal nutrition. Its high moisture keeps dogs hydrated, especially those in warmer climates. Additionally, they employ a unique cooking process to preserve the nutritional value and taste of the ingredients in Pantry Fresh, making it a nutritious and tasty option for dogs.
What sets it apart from competitors: Aside from traditional flavors, they offer specialized wet food for addressing specific health issues, including joint problems, skin issues, sensitive stomachs, renal problems, appetite loss, metabolic issues, and concerns related to liver function.
Key Features
Ready-to-serve nutrition. A team of veterinarians and canine specialists formulates every recipe.
Gently cooked. This process maximizes the nutritional value and promotes a healthy immune system.
Travel-friendly. 2-year shelf life and transportable Tetra Pak® packaging make it easy to store and travel with.
Pros
USDA-certified muscle and organ meats
A convenient way to feed a fresh diet
A variety pack for picky eaters
Provides the benefits of fresh dog food
Cons
More expensive than traditional wet dog food
Best Grain-Free Dog Food For Pugs
4.6
★★★★★
Open Farm
Who It's For: Ideal for dogs with grain allergies or sensitivities.
Why we recommended it:Open Farm’s grain-free dry dog food skips the grains, corn, soy, and wheat in favor of science-backed superfoods like non-GMO pumpkin, carrot, leafy greens, and coconut oil for a balanced and complete diet that provides antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support dog nutritional needs.
What sets it apart from competitors: It’s made responsibly from ethically sourced and sustainable ingredients free from antibiotics, hormones, and artificial preservatives, making it one of the most sustainable dog food brands.
Key Features
100% traceable ingredients. Instantly trace the origin of every ingredient through the QR code on the bag.
Premium ingredients. Locally sourced non-GMO fruits and veggies.
Ethically sourced protein. Only ethically sourced and humanely raised meats are used.
Pros
No rendered poultry or meat meals
Meats from audited higher welfare farms
High in protein
Local carbon footprint per bag
Cons
It can be more expensive than other brands on the market
Best Food For Pug Puppies
4.7
★★★★★
Raised Right
Who It's For: Ideal for puppies who need all the nutrients for proper development.
Why we recommended it:Raised Right brings farm-fresh ingredients to its recipes. Raised Right puppy recipes are ideal for transitioning your puppy to adult food. They have balanced calcium and phosphorus levels, perfect for healthy bone growth in puppies. It’s filled with healthy fats and carbs that are higher than all other recipes to support the energy requirements of growing puppies. These puppy recipes contain prebiotic fiber from pumpkin and chicory root, supporting healthy digestion, and also provide calcium iodate as a source of energy production, promoting muscular and cognitive development in puppies.
What sets it apart from competitors: Their recipes also have roughly double the amount of protein than other human-grade brands. Raised Right doesn't use unnecessary high-carb fillers like potato, rice, oats, yam, squash, pasta, barley, parsnips, corn, or wheat.
Key Features
Human-grade meats. High-quality meats are raised without antibiotics or added hormones.
Superfoods. Boosted with chia seeds, kale, flaxseed, and other wholesome ingredients.
Why we recommended it:Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula has a slightly lower price than other brands. It’s formulated to provide your dog with sustained, healthy energy from high-quality animal-based proteins. This dog food helps build strong, lean muscles and maintain optimal body conditions. It is made with real meat, brown rice, and sweet potatoes, which are easily digestible and provide a balanced diet for adult dogs.
What sets it apart from competitors: Blue Buffalo’s exclusive LifeSource Bits are a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your dog’s immune system and overall health. It is made with real meat as the first ingredient, which is rare in most affordable dog food brands.
Key Features
Omegas. This dog food is also packed with omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a radiant coat.
Muscle support. L-Carnitine to help burn fat while preserving lean muscles
Bone and joint health. It also contains glucosamine and chondroitin for strong bones and joint development.
Pros
No chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives
Cons
It may not be suitable for dogs with severe food allergies or sensitivities, as it is not specifically designed for these conditions
The inclusion of brown rice and sweet potatoes may be higher in carbohydrates than some dogs need, which could be a concern for overweight or diabetic dogs
Best Dog Food For Senior Pugs
4.6
★★★★★
Open Farm
Who It's For: Excellent for senior dogs. Formulated with the appropriate nutrients to support dogs in their older years.
Why we recommended it:Open Farm Senior Dogs features humanely raised turkey and chicken as primary protein sources, ensuring high-quality nutrition. It includes glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and aid with cartilage wear and tear as your pet ages. It contains omega-3 fatty acids from salmon oil to aid cognitive function. The addition of New Zealand green-lipped mussel provides natural anti-inflammatory benefits. The formula supports lean muscle mass and optimal fat metabolism, essential for the vitality of aging dogs.
What sets it apart from competitors: Features high protein and fat content to meet the needs of active senior dog breeds.
Key Features
Sustainable and ethical sourcing: Ingredients are 100% traceable and sourced from farms committed to animal welfare and sustainability.
Human-grade meats. No rendered poultry or meat meals.
Pros
85% quality animal ingredients
Certified humane for animal welfare
Includes pumpkin and coconut oil for better digestion
Cons
A bit expensive
Best Raw Food For Pugs
4.9
★★★★★
We Feed Raw
Who It's For: Dog owners who want the highest-quality raw meats and ingredients packed in perfectly balanced raw meals for optimal nutrition.
Why we recommended it: As more dog parents opt to raw feed their dogs, it’s essential to understand the ins and outs of a raw diet for dogs. If you are in the market for raw dog food, We Feed Raw formula is our top pick for the best raw dog food delivery brands. This formula is protein-packed, featuring 80% meat and organs, and 15% non-GMO fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals to provide your dog with a complete BARF diet. You can pick between a personalized plan or buy a box. The personalized plan might be the better choice if you want convenience and a long-term solution. Buying the box is an excellent option if you prefer flexibility and want to try the meals first.
What sets it apart from competitors: USDA meats sourced from free-range cattle and poultry that are humanely raised without antibiotics, steroids, or added hormones.
Key Features
HPP (High-Pressure Processing): This all-natural technology utilizes high water pressure to neutralize foodborne pathogens, including Listeria, E. coli, and Salmonella. Because this process uses pressure rather than heat, the nutritional value of the food remains unaffected.
Pre-portioned meals. Meals are portioned to your dog's daily needs for easy serving and to reduce food waste.
Pros
Only the lamb and venison are sourced from New Zealand
Stacks and stores easily in a standard freezer
Delivers food in an insulated, eco-friendly, compostable cooler with dry ice
Minimally processed, never cooked, pure, natural nutrition to keep your best friend strong
Cons
Not as convenient as feeding dry dog food. Maev Raw Dog Food is an excellent alternative for a more convenient way to feed raw.
It does not offer other raw dog products, such as treats
Why we recommended it:Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein is the best hypoallergenic dog formula you can feed an allergic dog. This vet-exclusive prescription formula helps dogs with itching, hair loss, skin allergies, and digestive upsets. It’s also highly digestible and supports gastrointestinal and dermatological health.
What sets it apart from competitors: This formula utilizes hydrolyzed soy protein (a non-animal protein). Hydrolyzed protein is produced through a process known as hydrolysis, which breaks down proteins into smaller fragments that are less likely to be recognized by the immune system, thereby preventing allergic reactions.
Key Features
Limited ingredients. Its limited ingredients also make it great against allergies. They use a single source of carbohydrates.
Supports GI health. Contains a special blend of fibers and prebiotics.
Pros
Specially designed for canines with food intolerances or allergies
Helps to reduce skin and GI reactions caused by proteins
Support healthy skin and help reduce inflammation
Cons
Requires vet authorization. While we recommend Royal Canine Veterinary for the best results, unfortunately, it requires a prescription. If you can’t wait to visit your vet or don’t have the budget to afford it, ACANA Lamb & Pumpkin Limited Ingredient Diet can also help with allergies and does not require a prescription.
Best Food For Pugs With Sensitive Stomachs
4.8
★★★★★
Blue Buffalo
Who It's For: Crafted for adult dogs with sensitive stomachs, aiming to alleviate digestive discomfort and promote overall gut health.
Why we recommended it:Blue Buffalo True Solutions Digestive Care is formulated to protect dogs with sensitive tummies. It’s made with easily digestible ingredients, including oatmeal, beet pulp, and brown rice, and contains no soy, wheat, or artificial ingredients that can cause upset stomachs in dogs. Additionally, the presence of antioxidant-rich ingredients, such as blueberries and cranberries, contributes to overall well-being.
What sets it apart from competitors: The addition of Blue Buffalo's LifeSource Bits—a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals—supports immune system health. Notably, the recipe avoids common allergens such as corn, wheat, soy, and artificial preservatives, making it suitable for dogs with food sensitivities.
Key Features
Digestive support: Contains prebiotic fiber to promote a healthy gut microbiome.
Skin and coat health: Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids contribute to healthy skin and a shiny coat.
Pros
Helps to reduce skin and GI reactions caused by proteins
Emphasizes whole grains and avoids common allergens
Cons
15% may still be sensitive to this diet. Another option is going fresh with a more premium option like JustFoodForDogs Balanced Remedy. Its plain composition of a single protein source, single starch source, and low-fat levels makes it perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Best Freeze-Dried Dog Food For Pugs
4.7
★★★★★
Get Joy Freeze-Dried
Who It's For: Ideal for pet parents who want the convenience of shelf-stable raw feeding without sacrificing quality or nutritional value.
Why we recommended it:Get Joy Freeze-Dried strikes a thoughtful balance between raw nutrition and daily practicality. The food is gently freeze-dried to retain nutrients and natural flavor, while removing moisture to improve shelf life and convenience. The ingredients are sourced and produced in the U.S., with a clear focus on clean proteins and whole foods—no artificial fillers, preservatives, or additives. The brand also offers wellness consultations and gut health testing, which aligns well with its personalized, health-first approach.
What sets it apart from competitors: Get Joy integrates personalized health services with its food delivery. Most freeze-dried dog food brands stop at the product; Get Joy pairs it with vet-backed nutrition plans and wellness tools, including at-home gut health kits and 1-on-1 consultations. This adds an extra layer of value for owners who want tailored support, particularly when managing chronic health issues such as digestive problems or food sensitivities.
Best Air-Dried Dog Food For Pugs
4.6
★★★★★
The Pet's Table
Who It's For: Excellent choice for dog parents seeking the most well-rounded, highly nutritious air-dried dog food delivery service.
Why we recommended it:The Pet's Table Air-Dried Dog Food stands out in its minimal ingredients, whole-food recipes made from real meat as the first ingredient, such as beef, chicken, or turkey, along with nutrient-rich vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots. These ingredients are selected for their digestibility, flavor, and nutritional value, providing protein for muscle maintenance, fiber for digestion, and vitamins to support immunity and skin health. The air-drying process uses low heat to remove moisture while retaining more natural nutrients compared to traditional kibble. This means your dog gets a more nutrient-dense, flavorful, and fresher alternative without refrigeration or complicated prep.
What sets it apart from competitors: Jerky-like texture is also highly palatable, especially for picky eaters or dogs with dental sensitivity.
Get 50% OFF your order with Canine Bible's link — Discount is applied automatically.
Best dog food for Pugs with tear Stains: Superior Care PetSmall Breed is specially crafted to target tear stains in white-coated small breeds. The hypoallergenic salmon protein helps reduce inflammation and allergic triggers, while omega-3s and biotin promote a healthy, bright coat. It’s free from common irritants like chicken and wheat, and the kibble size is perfect for tiny jaws.
Best dehydrated dog food for Pugs.The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Gourmet is our favorite dehydrated food. Dehydrated food is often easier for Pugs to digest. Additionally, if your dog has dental problems or is missing teeth, dehydrated dog food can be easier for them to eat than traditional kibble.
Best canned dog food for Pugs.PetPlate Entrées come in convenient, pre-portioned containers that function much like canned food—ready to serve with no prep required. This makes mealtime quick and hassle-free, especially for busy pet parents. The sealed packaging also helps preserve freshness without the need for artificial preservatives.
Best food topper for Pugs.Portland Pet Food Company Human offers a fantastic variety of tasty fresh dog food flavors you can add as a topper to your dog’s kibble meals.
Best health-specific custom diet food for Pugs.JustFoodForDogs makes creating a custom recipe for your fur baby easy. They work with your veterinarian to create a custom recipe if your Pugs has a medical need for a restricted diet.
Best Pug food to gain weight. With 484 calories per cup, Purina Pro Plan Performance is ideal for helping your Pug gain lean muscle mass.
How to Switch Your Pug's Food
Veterinarians recommend gradually changing your Pug's diet to a new formula.
Week 1: 25% new food and 75% old food
Week 2: 50% new food and 50% old food
Week 3: 25% new food and 75% old food
Week 4: 100% new food
Increase your Pug's new food portion weekly if they adjust well to each transition phase. Watch their reaction to the new diet carefully; discontinue the new food immediately if any negative responses are observed. Never change your dog’s food abruptly. It could cause an upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting.
Health-Based Food Changes In Pugs
If your Pug is struggling with any of the health conditions below, adopting a new diet or adding supplements can be beneficial to get these dog-related issues under control.
Condition
Dietary Needs & Adjustment
Coat Color Changes
Increase amino acids, which can be found in protein (over 75 grams per 1000 calories).
Concurrent GI Signs
Avoid foods that contain tryptamine and histamine, such as dairy products, fermented vegetables, and meats (including bacon); try a simple ingredient food trial.
Chronic Itching and Dermatitis
Fortify the diet with Vitamin E, B Vitamins, Zinc, omega-6, and omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil; add a dog probiotic; try a simple ingredient food trial.
Dull Coat and Scaling
Adjust EPA and DHA levels in the diet (added fish oil being the most common way); try food with added zinc.
Dandruff and Crustiness
Add Zinc and Vitamin A levels.
The Bottom Line
Feeding your Pug isn’t just about calories—it’s about precision. With their compact build, tendency toward weight gain, and susceptibility to breathing and joint issues, the right diet can make a dramatic difference in your Pug’s health and quality of life. Whether your Pug is a playful puppy, a mellow senior, or an expecting mama, understanding their stage-specific caloric needs ensures you’re supporting them with balanced nutrition, not just a full bowl. By tailoring their diet, you're not only helping them thrive—you’re giving them more tail-wagging years by your side.
Remember, every dog is unique, and what works well for one may not be the best fit for another. If you're looking for more great options, check out our guide on the best fresh dog food recipes. You can also opt for homemade dog food for Pugs, which may be less convenient but is often more affordable and allows for a more personalized approach to nutrition.
Additionally, if your Pug has food sensitivities or you're interested in exploring environmentally friendly and health-conscious alternatives, vegan dog food could be worth considering. Regardless of the diet you choose, it’s also wise to consider pet insurance for Pugs, which helps you stay prepared for any nutrition-related health issues that may arise.
Like It? Subscribe & Share!
Sources
Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Canine Bible authorship represents the unified voice of our entire editorial team and our in-house veterinarians rather than a single author. Each article, blog post, and review published under the Canine Bible name undergoes a rigorous review process, involving all team members to guarantee accuracy and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. This collaborative effort is an integral part of our editorial process and aligns with our four pillars of content creation. This approach ensures our content is backed by expert knowledge and factual information, offering our readers reliable, actionable, and trustworthy content.
Dr. Sandra Tashkovska, DVM, Veterinary atCanine Bible|
+ posts
Bio
Dr. Sandra Tashkovska, our esteemed Senior In-House Veterinarian, is passionately committed to sharing her extensive knowledge and experience with our readers, aiming to assist with any issues concerning your non-human family members. A staunch advocate for animal welfare and preventive medicine, she specializes in companion animals, dedicating much of her time to these furry friends. Despite spending two days a week at a local veterinary practice, she aspires to make a broader impact by disseminating crucial information gleaned from her consultations and academic research through her writing.
In addition to her veterinary role, Dr. Tashkovska holds the position of Financial Manager and maintains active membership in the International Veterinary Students' Association (IVSA). Her unwavering commitment to her field and international collaboration shines through her active participation in Erasmus+ and CEEPUS projects, and her volunteer work in Erasmus training courses and Youth exchanges.
Her educational journey is both extensive and diverse. Dr. Tashkovska earned her Masters in Veterinary Medicine from the renowned Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, and furthered her education at Summer Schools in Sarajevo and Vienna, where she explored vital topics such as Animal Welfare, Veterinary Ethics and Law, and Communication Skills.
Her pursuit of excellence doesn’t end there. Dr. Tashkovska has actively engaged in numerous prestigious events and training, including the International Veterinary Medicine Student Scientific Research Congresses in Istanbul, the Congress of Veterinarians in Small Practice in Zagreb, and the Eastern European Regional Veterinary Conference, among others. These cumulative experiences continuously augment her professional insight, solidifying her position at the forefront of veterinary medicine.
