Do Pugs Shed? How to Manage Pug Shedding Like a Pro

Dog Pugs Shed: Key Points

• Pugs shed year-round
• Aim for regular brushing, proper bathing, and a balanced diet
• Over-bathing or harsh shampoos can worsen shedding.
• Look out for excessive hair loss, bald spots, or constant itching.

Introduction

If you've ever cuddled a Pug and then looked down at your clothes, you probably already know the answer: yes, Pugs shed. A lot. But don't worry, this adorable shedding machine is totally manageable with the right tools, techniques, and confidence! In fact, learning how to care for your Pug's coat can become a rewarding bonding ritual between you and your dog.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know about Pug shedding, why it happens, and how to keep your home and pup looking fresh—without needing a trip to the groomer every week.

Why Do Pugs Shed So Much?

Pug parents often ask: Why do Pugs shed constantly? And the answer lies in their biology.

Pugs have a short, dense coat—and most have a double coat. This means they have both a soft undercoat and a coarse outer coat, making them naturally more prone to heavy shedding.

Key reasons pugs shed excessively:

How Much Do Pugs Shed?

“Something about a short coat is that it is constantly shedding. If you have a [Pug] then you’re very familiar with how much they can shed, all over our furniture and our floors.” - Nadia Bongelli, award-winning dog groomer and Paw Parent Academy instructor

It’s not your imagination—Pugs shed a LOT. In fact, many pet owners say their Pug sheds more than dogs with longer coats. Shedding levels can vary based on:

Age

• Puppies often begin with a soft, fuzzy coat that gradually transitions into their adult fur, leading to some shedding.

Seasons

• Expect extra shedding during spring and fall, when your Pug’s coat adjusts to the weather.
• Timeline of Pug shedding peaks by season.

Coat Color

• Fawn pugs: Usually double-coated → shed more
• Black pugs: Usually single-coated → shed less

Allergies & Hormonal Cycles

• Pugs with food or environmental allergies may shed more.
• Female hormone cycles, especially if unspayed, can also impact shedding.

Bathing Habits

• Over-bathing or using harsh shampoos can dry out the skin, causing even more shedding.

So, if you're wondering “How much do Pugs shed?”—the short answer is: daily. But the good news is, there are easy ways to manage it!

Healthy vs. Excessive Shedding: What to Watch For

Healthy Shedding

It’s normal to find pug hair on your clothes, couch, or car seats. You’re in the clear so long as your pup has:

• A soft, shiny coat;
• No visible bald spots;
• Normal energy and behavior.

Excessive Shedding Red Flags

However, it might be time to consult a vet if you notice:

• Patchy bald spots;
• Constant scratching;
• Red, flaky skin;
• Thinning fur.

After all, excessive shedding can point to allergies, infections, mites, and/or poor nutrition.

Easy At-Home Shedding Solutions

Daily grooming can drastically cut down on shedding—and it’s easier than you think!

Brushing Routines That Work

Pugs benefit from brushing at least 2–3 times a week—daily during shedding seasons.

Recommended tools:

• Rubber curry brush: Gentle and effective for daily use
• Deshedding tool: Use 1–2x a week during heavy shedding periods

Bathing with the Right Shampoo

Give your Pug a bath anywhere from once a week to once a month, depending on their needs and your schedule. When bathing them, we recommend using an anti-shed shampoo made for dogs, to be applied at full concentration (not in a mixing/dilution bottle). Secondly, we also recommend a tear-free shampoo that you will use specifically on your Pug’s face.

Importantly: ensure to avoid over-bathing, as this actually strips the skin of its natural oils!

Diet & Supplements That Help

A shiny coat starts from within. Make sure your Pug’s diet includes:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (via salmon oil or flaxseed)
• High-quality protein
• Zinc and biotin supplements (if recommended by your vet)

Before introducing any new supplements or switching up your pup’s food, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian to ensure it’s the right fit for your dog’s specific needs.

Creating a Shed-Friendly Home

Home Cleaning Tips

Even with regular brushing, a little Pug fur is bound to sneak onto your furniture and floors. These simple cleaning strategies will help you stay on top of the fluff without feeling overwhelmed:

• Use a high-powered vacuum with a pet hair attachment.
• Keep lint rollers or reusable pet hair removers in common areas.
• Choose washable slipcovers for furniture.

Furniture & Clothing Zones

Setting up designated spaces for your Pug—and your wardrobe—can make all the difference in controlling the spread of shed hair. Try these easy home hacks:

• Create “Pug-free zones” on beds or couches.
• Designate washable blankets for dog lounging spots.
• Use clothing covers or aprons during cuddle time.

Coat Type Matters: Fawn vs. Black Pugs

Not all pugs shed equally!

Fawn & Agouti Pugs

• Typically have a double coat;
• Shed more heavily year-round.

Black & Silver Pugs

• More likely to have a single coat;
• Tend to shed less, but still benefit from regular grooming.

So, the next time someone asks, “Do black Pugs shed less?”—you can say yes, but it’s not zero.

When to Get Professional Help

Okay, by now you’ve brushed, bathed, and vacuumed—so, why is your Pug STILL shedding too much?

Signs It’s Time to Call a Vet:

Even with great at-home grooming, there can be times when excessive shedding is pointing at a deeper issue. Here’s how to tell when it’s more than just fur:

• No improvement after consistent at-home care;
• Red, irritated skin or constant scratching;
• Sudden increase in hair loss.

In these cases, your vet can help rule out underlying conditions like allergies, parasites, or thyroid imbalances—and recommend treatment to get your pup’s skin and coat back on track. Once your dog is feeling better, you can confidently return to your regular home grooming routine.

Bonus Grooming Tips from the Pros

Want a stress-free grooming routine your Pug actually enjoys?

✔️ Pocket Brush Sessions

Keep a small rubber brush near your couch and brush during cuddle time—it’s efficient and comforting!

✔️ Use Treats & Praise

Turn brushing into a game or bonding time. Treats work wonders in creating positive associations.

Final Thoughts: You've Got This, Pug Parent!

Shedding is just part of Pug life—but it doesn’t have to rule your life (or cover your couch). With simple tools and a little consistency, you’ll keep your pup’s coat healthy and your home hair-free.

Want to Learn More? Join Our DIY Grooming Course!

Ready to take control of your Pug’s shedding and make grooming a joyful part of your daily routine?

Paw Parent Academy’s online DIY How To Groom a Pug (and Other Short Coats) Course gives you:

• Video demos on brushing, bathing, drying, nail care, and teeth-brushing techniques;
• Tailored tips for shedding control;
• Guidance on recommended tools + products;
• Advice from award-winning professional dog groomer, Nadia Bongelli.

FAQs About Pug Shedding

How much do Pugs shed?

A lot! Pugs shed year-round, with extra loss during spring and fall. Double-coated Pugs (like most fawns) shed more than single-coated ones.

Do black Pugs shed less?

Yes. Black pugs often have a single coat, which means less fur to shed—but regular grooming is still a must.

How do I stop my Pug from shedding so much?

You can’t stop it completely, but daily brushing, monthly baths, and good nutrition will drastically reduce loose fur.

Are there grooming products that help?

Absolutely! Deshedding tools, rubber brushes, and coat-nourishing shampoos make a big difference. We cover these in detail in our grooming course.