To minimize shedding before becoming a huge problem, comb and brush your Pug every time you can, but no less than three or four times a week. Shedding is normal for all canines. A few breeds have coats that give the appearance of not shedding, but they too lose dead hair. You don’t find shed hair on the furniture, because those dead hairs are cleverly trapped in their curls.

Seasonal shedding is somewhat climate oriented and is related to the amount of daylight afforded. Shedding is related to the quality of your Pug’s nutrition as well, and increased outdoor exercise seems to slow down excessive shedding. Some breeds simply shed more than others. A pug is a generous little companion that loves to share her coat with her family.

Double coats tend to shed more noticeably than single coats, and a fawn Pug has a double coat. A Pug’s shedding propensity is perhaps the foremost flaw in this charming little companion’s physical makeup. Soft, short hairs manage to work into all fabrics that touch your Pug. Early in your relationship, you will hang a tape-style lint remover in every closet.

Because brushing and grooming are a vital part of Pug ownership, you should consider setting up a corner of the house to devote to that endeavor. Visit a grooming parlor and look at a professional groomer’s table. You will see a sturdy table with a bent rod, shaped like an inverted “L,” affixed to one end and a loop of soft cord hanging over the table from the horizontal
end of the rod. The table is covered with a non-slip rubber mat that is easily removed for cleaning. Collapsible metal grooming tables are available at pet supply stores, but they are expensive ($30 to $100). Much cheaper ones are
often available at thrift shops.

Taking Measures to Minimize Shedding

• Spend at least three or four short sessions a week with your Pug and her fine-toothed comb and brush or grooming glove.
• End each quick grooming session by wiping her down with a lightly dampened chamois leather or piece of velvet.
• Buy the best quality dog food available, and don’t feed table scraps.
• Ask your veterinarian if a fatty acid and vitamin E supplement may help reduce shedding.
• Buy fawn colored furniture and carpet, and try not to wear dark clothing.