Pugs can no longer be considered as "typical dogs".
Pugs should no longer be considered as 'typical dogs'
A new study has warned that the breed should be treated differently due to their high health risks, even though they are one of the most popular dog breeds because of their big eyes and squashed-looking faces.
Research from The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has found that canines are significantly more likely to suffer from health conditions affecting the airways and the eyes.
The experts are now advising the public against buying the pooches until their health improves and their body shape becomes less extreme.
The study, published in the Canine Medicine and Genetics journal, said: "Highly differing health profiles between pugs and other dogs in the UK suggest that the pug has diverged substantially from mainstream dog breeds and can no longer be considered as a typical dog from a health perspective."