The Day I Learned to Listen to My Pug: A Lesson Every Owner Should Know
June 15, 2025
This is the no-nonsense guide that every pug parent deserves: the Pug Grooming Schedule Cheat Sheet.
Pugs aren’t like other dogs. They require a little more care because of their skin folds, shedding patterns, and “I’m too cute to care” attitude. Regular grooming is important for more reasons than just keeping you looking appealing; it also helps you avoid infections, avoid odors, and identify health problems early on.
Believe me, you don’t want to start a routine until your pug’s face smells like a gym sock that you left behind. Your Stress-Free Guide to Maintaining the Freshness and Cleanliness of Your Wrinkly Love
In the cutest, most absurd way possible, pugs require a lot of upkeep. They are adorable, cuddly drama queens with jaw-dropping faces and grooming requirements that are as surprising as a pop quiz. Asking questions like “Why does my pug smell like corn chips?” or “How often should I bathe my pug?” is not unique to you.
But breathe easy. You don’t need a grooming license to keep your pug looking and smelling like royalty. You just need a simple routine a few minutes a day and the unshakable patience of someone who’s used to being stared at while they poop.
1. Wipe those wrinkles.
Use a pet-safe wipe or damp cloth to clean inside the folds of their face. Pugs are prone to yeast gunk and irritation in those adorable little creases.
Pro tip: Go easy and always dry the folds after. Moisture equals mayhem.
2. Check eyes and nose.
Literally, pug eyes are dramatic. They are vulnerable to dry spots, scratches, and goopy buildup. Quickly scan them, then use a soft cloth to gently wipe away any discharge. If their nose is crusty, use a dog-safe balm to keep it hydrated.
3. Quick brush down
A quick once-over with a soft brush helps catch shedding before it decorates your couch.
Bonus: it’s a bonding moment unless your pug thinks the brush is out to get them.
1. Full body brushing
To remove loose fur, especially during the furmageddon (heavy shedding seasons in the spring and fall), use a deshedding tool or rubber grooming mitt.
2. Wash your ears.
Use a cotton pad and veterinarian-approved ear cleaner to gently clean your pug’s ears once a week. Avoid getting too involved. Just wipe what you can see. See your veterinarian if the ears appear red or have an odd smell.
Pro tip: Pugs hate this. Go slow and follow it up with praise and snacks like you’re bribing a toddler.
3. Dental care
Brush their teeth with dog-safe toothpaste and a soft toothbrush. Brushing is the best method, but you can also use dental wipes or chews. Start small if they hate it and build the habit.
Bad breath can indicate more serious problems than just being unattractive.
1. Baby, it’s bath time.
Once a month is usually enough unless your pug loves rolling in questionable substances. Use a mild shampoo that is appropriate for lukewarm water and pugs. After drying them completely with towels and a blow dryer set to low, make sure that no water gets in their eyes or ears.
Note: Their skin may become dry from excessive bathing. Don’t go overboard.
2. Nail trimming
Yes, if you’re not careful, those little nails may grow into their paw pads. Depending on how quickly they grow, trim them once or twice a month. Allow a veterinarian or groomer to handle it if you’re anxious.
Your cue is when you hear a click-clack on the floor.
3. Paw pad check
Pug paws can dry out or crack. If necessary, apply a small amount of dog-safe balm after trimming the fur between the toes and checking for debris. Zoomies are happy when paws are happy.
The Shedding Battle Is Real in the Spring and Fall: Increase brushing to once a day or every other day. Fur will still be visible on your black clothing, but it won’t appear as though you’ve held a shedding bear.
Keep cool this summer.
Avoid midday walks and wipe their wrinkles more often. Watch for heat rash and skin irritation. Short hair doesn’t mean they’re immune to overheating.
Winter: Be Aware of Dry Skin
Use moisturizing wipes and monitor their nose and paw pads for dryness. Humidifiers help indoors too.
Here’s your essentials checklist:
pet-safe cleaning products
Wrinkle balm
Ear cleaner
Dog toothbrush plus toothpaste
Deshedding brush or mitt
Nail clippers or grinder
Pug safe shampoo
Towel and dryer
Paw balm
Treats lots
For motivation, use the entertaining but optional lick mat grooming apron baby voice.
Listen, boss, sometimes when your pug is taking a bath, they will act as though they are being waterboarded. Other days they’ll fall asleep while you clean their folds like royalty. A rollercoaster, that is.
But perfection isn’t the goal. Consistency is.
You’re not trying to win Best in Show. You want to make sure your pug is happy, healthy, and leading the most cuddly life possible. Keep your supplies ready to go and organized. You don’t want to go searching for the toothbrush while your pug hides under the bed.
This is the schedule you came for, which is printable and worthy of a refrigerator:
Your pug is more than a pet. They serve as your emotional support system, your hug, and your shadow. Grooming them is a loving gesture, not just a matter of hygiene.
You’re doing it correctly, regardless of whether you’re cleaning up fur or cleaning your eyes at two in the morning. You’re coming. And even if your dog acts grumpy, they are fully aware of it.
Keep your sense of humor intact, the wipes close at hand, and the treats stocked. Because having a pug makes life incredibly messy, strange, funny, and worthwhile.
Got a favorite grooming product? A wrinkly face cleaning hack? Let’s exchange pug parent knowledge like the secret society we are by leaving a comment below.
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