Pug Grooming Guide: How to Clean Skin Folds and Care for Their Coat - Petdirect
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Pug Grooming Guide: How to Clean Skin Folds and Care for Their Coat

Pug Grooming Guide: How to Clean Skin Folds and Care for Their Coat

If you're the proud parent of a pug, you already know their adorable wrinkles and short, dense coat are part of their charm — but they also need a little extra TLC. Regular and gentle grooming is key to keeping your pug feeling fresh, comfy and looking paw-some. In this guide, we’ll share pug-specific grooming tips that focus on two main areas: their unique skin folds and their smooth, double-layered coat. We’ll also recommend helpful products to make grooming more effective and stress-free — because at Petdirect, We Get Pet.

Why Pugs Need Special Grooming Attention

Pugs may be small in size, but their grooming routine is mighty important. Thanks to their deep facial wrinkles and compact, double-layered coat, they’re more prone to skin infections, trapped dirt and shedding. New Zealand’s humid summers or muddy winters can also increase the risk of skin irritation, so maintaining a regular grooming routine helps prevent issues before they start.

Understanding how to clean those cute folds and care for that smooth coat isn’t just about appearance — it’s essential for your pug’s overall health and wellbeing.

How To Clean Your Pug’s Skin Folds

Those signature pug wrinkles are perfect dirt and moisture traps, which can lead to bacterial or yeast infections if left unchecked. Here’s how to safely clean their folds:

  • Use a soft, damp cloth or pet-safe grooming wipe to gently clean between each skin fold.
  • Dry thoroughly with a clean cloth or cotton pad — moisture is the enemy!
  • Clean folds every few days, or daily in humid weather or if your pug is prone to folding issues.

To help with this, explore our range of dog ear and eye care products that are gentle enough for facial use and designed to remove build-up or irritants safely.

Coat Care: Keeping That Pug Coat Shiny And Healthy

While pugs have short fur, they’re known to shed — a lot! Combatting this comes down to consistent brushing and a healthy diet:

  • Brush 2–3 times a week using a soft-bristled comb or grooming brush made for short-haired dogs.
  • Regular brushing distributes natural oils and reduces loose hair around your home.
  • Use a mild, hydrating dog shampoo and conditioner every 1–2 months (more often if they love rolling in the mud).

For added health from the inside out, consider skin and coat health supplements packed with omega fatty acids to support a shiny coat and reduce dryness or flaking.

Watch For Skin Irritations Or Allergies

Pug skin is sensitive and their folds are vulnerable to flare-ups. Redness, foul smell, excessive itching or changes in skin colour could indicate infection or an allergy. If you notice any of these signs, it's always best to consult your vet for advice tailored to your pug’s needs — and make sure their grooming tools and products are gentle and non-irritating.

We recommend choosing products from trusted pet health brands like WashBar and Dermcare, which offer natural and veterinarian-trusted solutions for sensitive skin.

Bonus Tips To Make Grooming Stress-Free

Let’s make grooming a time your pug actually enjoys:

  • Use treats during and after grooming to create a positive association.
  • Start young — if your pug is a puppy, build grooming into their routine early.
  • Have supplies like nail clippers, pet wipes and brushes all in one place for easy access.
  • Keep sessions short and calm, with plenty of praise and cuddles.

And if you're keen to keep things on track, consider our Autodeliver service to regularly receive essentials like wipes, shampoo and supplements right when you need them.

A Happy, Wrinkle-Free Pug Is A Healthy One

Grooming your pug’s skin folds and coat doesn’t have to be a chore. With regular care, gentle products, and a little help from Petdirect, your pug will stay clean, comfortable and looking their smooshy-faced best. Whether you’re stocking up on grooming essentials or browsing our coat care supplements, we’ve got what you need to keep your wrinkly companion shining from snout to tail.

Join our Pet Perks loyalty programme to earn rewards as you care for your furry bestie — because when it comes to pugs, We Get Pet.