The coat and skin are the dog's first line of defense against environmental attack - from such enemies as fleas, wetness, and cold. When the coat and skin are in poor condition, your dog becomes susceptible to disease or illness.
An older coat and older skin just can't take care of themselves like they used to - because circulation and muscle tone aren't as good as they were when a Pug was younger. You can make up for the decrease in these functions with a grooming routine.
Brushing
A daily grooming session with the proper tools is the first step. Brush and flea comb are two of the basics.
Fifteen minutes is usually all it will take each day, but those fifteen minutes will save you time in the long run. You'll keep your Pug’s overall health at a high level, helping to eliminate visits to the vet other than for regular check-ups.
Another reason for daily
grooming
has to do with an aging Pug’s need for physical contact and attention. While puppies and young dogs are busy running around and finding a play thing in everything, an older Pug doesn't have energy for such things. A grooming session can be an interesting diversion for a dog. It is also an opportunity for you and your Pug to have a bonding experience, which is always a mood booster.
Baths
Though your Pug may be less active as a senior and therefore perhaps get less dirty, it is still important to stay on track with baths. There are two reasons for this.
First, the main purpose of baths is to remove excess body oils; these accumulate naturally and can
start to smell
at the 3 week mark.
The second, is that if you use quality products, baths will serve to moisturize both skin and coat. Now, more than ever, the senior Pug needs warm water and an almost immediate move to a thick, absorbent towel right after bathing.
Use bath time to check your Pug's entire body for any lumps or bumps, and check for skin conditions. Run your hands over every area, including legs, ears,
tail, underbelly, etc. Report any findings to your veterinarian ASAP.