Pug Feeding Guide (2025)

The Pug is well-loved for its playful personality, charming looks, and loyal companionship.

To stay healthy and thrive, a Pug needs a diet that supports its compact build and moderate activity levels.

Unlike larger working breeds, the Pug’s nutritional needs are influenced by its small size, short muzzle, and tendency toward weight gain, especially if it spends more time indoors or enjoys shorter walks.

Its diet should therefore support:

• Healthy weight management
• Joint support
• Skin and coat health

This guide provides clear, practical advice to help you adjust your Pug’s nutrition based on age, lifestyle, digestive sensitivities, and individual health needs.

Let's dive in now !

What Should a Pug Eat?

Specific Nutritional Needs

The Pug, with its compact body and short muzzle, needs a diet that helps maintain a healthy weight, supports joint health, and promotes good skin and coat condition.

Because Pugs can be prone to obesity and breathing difficulties, their food should be nutrient-dense without excess calories, with moderate protein and fat levels to fuel daily activity without leading to weight gain.

Recommended Daily Intake for an Adult Pug (6–8 kg, moderate activity)

Nutrient	Role / Function	Recommended Intake (% dry matter)
Proteins	Muscle maintenance, recovery, energy	20 – 24%
Fats	Caloric supply, skin and coat health, brain support	8 – 12%
Calcium	Bone and joint strength, neuromuscular function	0.8 – 1.2%
Phosphorus	Bone metabolism, energy processes	0.6 – 1.0%
Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)	Anti-inflammatory, skin and joint support	≥ 0.05%
Dietary Fiber	Digestive health, satiety, weight control	3 – 5%
Vitamin E	Antioxidant, cellular protection	≥ 50 mg/kg
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)	Energy metabolism, nervous system support	≥ 2 mg/kg
Water	Hydration, temperature regulation	~50–60 ml/kg body weight

These values are tailored for a healthy adult Pug on a dry food (kibble) diet with moderate activity levels.

Protein Sources for the Pug

Insect Protein

Insect proteins—such as mealworms (Tenebrio molitor) and black soldier flies (Hermetia illucens)—are a gentle, sustainable option.

They provide essential amino acids like lysine and methionine, which are useful for Pugs with skin sensitivities or digestive issues.

Their high digestibility helps maintain lean muscle without putting strain on the digestive system, and their eco-friendly nature makes them appealing for owners who want a sustainable choice.

Chicken

Chicken is one of the most digestible and widely available protein sources.

It offers a complete amino acid profile and is naturally lean, which is important for Pugs since they are prone to weight gain. Choosing high-quality chicken-based foods without by-products or fillers helps support muscle while keeping calories in check.

Lamb

Lamb can be a good choice for Pugs with food sensitivities, as it is less likely to trigger reactions than chicken or beef.

It’s rich in glutamine and leucine, which aid muscle recovery and energy balance. However, because lamb is higher in fat, it’s best suited for active Pugs that burn more energy.

Salmon

Salmon is a digestible protein and an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA).

For Pugs, these nutrients support joint flexibility, heart health, and skin and coat condition. Salmon can be particularly beneficial for senior Pugs or those with mobility issues.

Turkey

Turkey is a lean, easily digestible protein that provides complete amino acids and B vitamins, especially B6 for energy metabolism.

It’s lighter than chicken and can be a great option for Pugs with sensitive digestion or those needing support with weight control.

Whole Egg

Eggs are among the most complete protein sources, offering all essential amino acids along with fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E) and selenium.

They make a valuable addition to a Pug’s diet, particularly in home-cooked meals. Since eggs are nutrient-dense, they are best given in moderation or rotation.

Overview of Protein Sources for Pugs

Protein Source	Nutritional Quality	Digestive Tolerance
Insect Protein	Complete amino acid profile, healthy fats, eco-friendly	Excellent – hypoallergenic, highly digestible
Chicken	Lean, high-quality protein	Very good – unless intolerant
Lamb	Digestible, rich in glutamine and leucine	Good – higher in fat, better for active Pugs
Salmon	Protein + omega-3s, supports joints, heart, coat	Very good – ideal for seniors or sensitive skin
Turkey	Low fat, B-vitamin rich	Very good – gentle on digestion
Whole Egg	Gold-standard protein, full amino acid profile	Excellent – best in moderation or rotation

Feeding by Age for the Pug

The nutritional needs of a Pug change throughout life.

From the energetic puppy stage to adulthood and into the slower senior years, diet plays a key role in keeping this small but sturdy breed healthy, lean, and comfortable.

Pug Puppy (2 to 8 Months)

Pug puppies grow quickly in their first months and need a diet that supports bone development, muscle growth, and a still-developing digestive system.

Their food should be nutrient-dense, with high-quality proteins, balanced calcium and phosphorus for skeletal health, and easily digestible ingredients.

Because Pugs are prone to overeating, portion control is crucial even at this young age.

📊 Recommended Daily Kibble Amounts for Pug Puppies

Age	Average Weight (kg)	Kibble (g/day)
2 months	1.5 – 2	55 – 70
3 months	2 – 3	65 – 85
4 months	3 – 4	80 – 100
5 months	4 – 5	95 – 115
6 months	5 – 6	100 – 120
8 months	6 – 7	110 – 130
10–12 months	7 – 8	115 – 135

Portions are based on standard kibble (~3.8 kcal/g). Adjust to growth rate, condition, and activity.

Adult Pug (1 to 7 Years)

Adult Pugs need a diet that maintains muscle without adding unnecessary calories. Since this breed is prone to obesity, weight management is a top priority.

Choose high-quality proteins, moderate fat, and a balanced fiber content to promote satiety and digestive health. Omega-3 fatty acids support skin, coat, and joint comfort, while antioxidants help overall vitality.

Two meals per day are recommended to avoid overeating at once. A general nutrient target is 20–24% protein and 8–12% fat in dry matter.

📊 Recommended Daily Kibble Amounts for Adult Pugs

Average Weight (kg)	Activity Level	Kibble (g/day)
6 – 7	Low to moderate (short walks, indoor play)	115 – 135
7 – 8	Active (daily walks, playful lifestyle)	130 – 150
8+	Very active (longer walks, agility, high play)	145 – 165

Adjust based on calorie density (~3.8 kcal/g), lifestyle, and body condition. Reduce portions by 10–15% if neutered or sedentary.

Senior Pug (7 Years and Older)

From around age 7, a Pug’s metabolism slows, and excess weight can put strain on joints, breathing, and the heart.

Senior diets should emphasize digestible proteins (18–22%), reduced fat, and added support for joints, kidneys, and the immune system. Fiber helps digestion and satiety, while omega-3s, vitamin E, and antioxidants support overall well-being. Since some seniors lose appetite, palatability is also important.

📊 Recommended Daily Kibble Amounts for Senior Pugs

Average Weight (kg)	Condition	Kibble (g/day)
6 – 7	Active and in good condition	105 – 125
7 – 8	Moderately active or neutered	100 – 120
8+	Sedentary, with arthritis or health issues	90 – 110

Needs vary depending on health status and exercise. Pugs with joint, kidney, or breathing issues may benefit from a veterinary-prescribed diet.

Types of Food

Kibble

Kibble is the most common and practical option for feeding a Pug.

When made with high-quality ingredients, it provides a complete balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s easy to store, simple to portion, and can be selected to match a Pug’s age, weight, and lifestyle.

For adult Pugs, look for kibble containing around 20–24% protein and 8–12% fat (dry matter), with added omega-3s (EPA/DHA) to support skin health, joint comfort, and overall vitality.

Because Pugs are prone to weight gain, avoid lower-quality kibbles that contain excessive fillers, poor-quality by-products, or too many carbohydrates.

These can increase the risk of obesity, digestive issues, or reduced energy.

Advantages

• Convenient storage and long shelf life
• Balanced formulation (when choosing premium recipes)
• Easy to portion according to size and activity
• Can help maintain dental hygiene through chewing
• Often more economical than fresh or homemade feeding

Disadvantages

• Quality varies greatly between brands
• Budget formulas often too high in carbohydrates
• Some Pugs may be fussy with taste or texture
• Low moisture content requires extra attention to water intake
• Lower-end products may contain additives or preservatives

Wet Food (Canned or Pouch)

Wet food typically contains 70–80% moisture and is often more appealing to Pugs than dry kibble.

It’s gentler on digestion, supports hydration, and is usually lower in carbohydrates and fillers—an advantage for Pugs prone to sensitive stomachs or weight management challenges.

Wet food can be fed alone or used to complement kibble, adding flavor and variety without unbalancing the diet.

The drawbacks are higher cost, short shelf life once opened, and lack of dental-cleaning benefits.

Advantages

• Very appetizing—helpful for picky Pugs or seniors with reduced appetite
• High moisture content supports hydration (important for Pugs that may drink less)
• Lower in carbs and often easier on digestion
• Can be combined with kibble for variety

Disadvantages

• More expensive than kibble
• Spoils quickly after opening (24–72h)
• Does not help reduce tartar buildup—extra dental care is needed
• Bulkier packaging, less eco-friendly

Homemade Diet (Cooked)

A cooked homemade diet for Pugs is typically made with lean meats, well-cooked vegetables, digestible starches, and essential supplements.

This feeding style allows full control over ingredient quality and can be adapted to specific Pug needs, such as weight management, food sensitivities, or skin support.

However, precise formulation is crucial—imbalances in calcium, phosphorus, or vitamins can lead to serious health issues over time. Pugs are especially prone to obesity, so careful portioning is also essential.

Preparing a homemade diet is more time-intensive, often more costly, and requires safe food handling and supplementation.

Advantages

• Full control over ingredient quality
• Can be tailored for health concerns (allergies, obesity, skin issues)
• Usually very digestible and palatable for Pugs
• Free from artificial additives and preservatives

Disadvantages

• High risk of nutrient deficiencies without veterinary guidance
• Time-consuming to prepare regularly
• More expensive (fresh meat + supplements)
• Short shelf life (a few days refrigerated)
• Requires supplementation (calcium, vitamins, omega-3)

BARF Diet (Raw Feeding)

The BARF diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) is based on raw meat, meaty bones, organs, vegetables, and supplements, aiming to replicate the ancestral canine diet.

It is often praised for digestibility, natural nutrient content, and potential dental benefits from chewing raw bones.

However, it carries significant risks: strict hygiene is required, nutritional imbalances can be harmful, and it is not recommended for Pug puppies, seniors, or dogs with weakened immune systems.

Because Pugs are brachycephalic and prone to obesity, raw feeding should only be considered under close veterinary guidance.

Advantages

• Can be highly digestible for some Pugs
• Naturally rich in nutrients (collagen, calcium, omega-3s)
• Chewing bones may support dental health
• Anti-inflammatory potential from omega-3s
• Free from ultra-processed ingredients

Disadvantages

• Risk of bacterial contamination from raw meat
• Requires strict daily preparation and hygiene
• High chance of nutritional imbalances without expert planning
• Expensive (fresh meat and supplements)
• Veterinary guidance is essential for safety

Is the Pug a Carnivore?

Like all domestic dogs, the Pug is not a strict carnivore but a carnivore-leaning omnivore.

Pugs have the physical traits of meat-eaters—strong jaws, sharp teeth, a short digestive tract, and an acidic stomach—yet through domestication, they’ve also developed the ability to digest certain carbohydrates.

Enzymes such as pancreatic amylase help them process starches and grains.

This means a Pug’s diet should be primarily animal protein and fat, but it can also benefit from select plant-based ingredients such as rice, oats, sweet potato, and fermentable fibers for digestive health.

A diet made only of meat or only of plants would be nutritionally incomplete without careful supplementation.

Insect proteins, like black soldier fly larvae and mealworms, are another promising option—they are highly digestible, provide a complete amino acid profile, and are gentle on sensitive Pug stomachs.

Whether meat-based or not, the ideal diet for a pug must be balanced and contain various ingredients: carefully balanced carbohydrates, digestible proteins, and essential fatty acids to maintain overall health!

How Diet Impacts the Pug’s Health

For the Pug, a carefully balanced diet is essential for long-term health and comfort.

The right nutrition helps maintain a healthy weight, support joint mobility, protect skin and coat health, and strengthen the immune system.

It also plays a role in managing common pug issues such as breathing difficulties and sensitivity to heat.

In contrast, a poorly balanced diet can quickly lead to obesity, which increases the risk of breathing problems, joint strain, heart disease, and skin fold infections—all of which can significantly reduce the quality of life for this small but affectionate breed.

5 Signs of a Balanced Diet

1. Solid Frame and Stable Weight

A healthy Pug maintains a compact but not overweight build. You should be able to feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat, and a slight waistline should be visible when viewed from above.

Stable weight is one of the clearest indicators that calorie intake is properly matched to daily activity and portion control is effective.

2. Healthy Skin and Coat

A smooth, glossy coat with minimal shedding and skin free from irritation or redness indicates balanced nutrition.

Adequate omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, high-quality proteins, and vitamins B and E are especially important for Pugs, as their skin folds are prone to irritation if diet and hygiene are neglected.

3. Steady Energy and Comfortable Breathing

A well-fed Pug shows consistent energy levels—playful and alert during activity, but calm and relaxed at rest.

Balanced nutrition with digestible proteins, moderate fats, and complex carbohydrates helps prevent fatigue, hyperactivity, or sluggishness. Maintaining a healthy weight also reduces breathing strain, a critical factor for brachycephalic breeds like the Pug.

. Smooth Digestion and Normal Stools

Regular, well-formed stools with minimal odor (typically 1–2 times a day) are signs that a Pug’s diet is balanced and digestible.

The absence of bloating, gas, vomiting, or diarrhea shows that the food is well tolerated and supports a healthy gut microbiome. Since Pugs can be prone to digestive sensitivities, consistency here is especially important.

5. Steady Appetite and Calm Eating Behavior

A Pug on a proper diet eats with good consistency—finishing meals without excessive fussing or constant begging.

Although Pugs are known for their enthusiasm for food, a balanced diet should satisfy them without leading to overeating or scavenging behavior. The right nutrient balance helps promote satiety, steady appetite, and calmer eating habits.

5 Signs of a Poorly Adapted Diet

1. Abnormal Weight Changes

Sudden weight gain (heavier frame, difficulty breathing, rounded belly) or unexpected weight loss may indicate that a Pug’s diet is unbalanced.

Overfeeding increases the risk of obesity, which in turn worsens breathing issues and joint strain. Underfeeding, on the other hand, leaves the dog undernourished and weak.

2. Dull Coat and Skin Issues

A lackluster coat, excessive shedding, or irritated skin (especially in the folds) often signals insufficient essential fatty acids, low-quality protein, or food sensitivities.

Because Pugs are prone to skin fold infections, proper nutrition plays a key role in keeping skin resilient.

3. Fatigue or Restlessness

If a Pug is unusually lethargic, the diet may be lacking vital nutrients such as B vitamins, iron, or sufficient calories.

Conversely, hyperactivity or restlessness can occur if the food contains too many quick-digesting carbohydrates or sugar-like additives.

4. Frequent Digestive Issues

Loose stools, flatulence, vomiting, or frequent diarrhea suggest poor ingredient quality, excess fillers, or an imbalance of protein and fiber.

Pugs, with their sensitive digestive systems, may react strongly to low-grade grains, heavy starches, or artificial additives.

5. Unstable Appetite or Food Refusal

A Pug that refuses meals, eats reluctantly, or constantly begs for extra food may not be getting the right nutrient balance.

Food that is overly fatty, bland, or difficult to digest can lead to erratic eating behavior and poor satisfaction after meals.

Conclusion

The Pug is a loyal, affectionate companion with unique nutritional needs.

Supporting it with the right diet is essential—high-quality proteins, balanced fats, digestible carbohydrates, and skin- and joint-supportive nutrients adapted to its small but sturdy frame.

Whether you choose kibble, wet food, or carefully planned homemade meals, ingredient quality and overall balance matter most.

For Pugs with sensitivities, insect protein can be an excellent option—easy to digest, rich in amino acids, and gentle on the stomach while being environmentally sustainable.

Source: FEDIAF