Pug Stud Dog: Health Testing, Breathing Evaluation, and What to Look For

The Pug is one of the most beloved breeds in the world — and one facing genuine health challenges that demand responsible breeding. The Pug's distinctive flat face comes with real health consequences, and responsible breeders are working hard to produce dogs that breathe better, live longer, and suffer less.

The Breathing Crisis in Pugs

Pugs are one of the most severely affected brachycephalic breeds. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) affects a significant proportion of the breed. Structural problems include: stenotic nares (pinched nostrils), elongated soft palate, hypoplastic trachea, and everted laryngeal saccules.

Evaluating a Stud's Breathing

The Cambridge BOAS Functional Grading System grades dogs 0-3:

• Grade 0: No respiratory signs. Ideal for breeding.
• Grade 1: Mild signs only during exercise. Acceptable with careful selection.
• Grade 2: Moderate signs at rest or moderate exercise. Should not be bred.
• Grade 3: Severe signs. Should not be bred.

Health Testing Requirements for Pug Studs

CAER Eye Examination — Annual

Pugs have large, prominent eyes prone to: Pigmentary Keratitis, exposure keratopathy, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, cataracts, and entropion/ectropion.

OFA Hip Evaluation — Good or Excellent

Hip dysplasia occurs in Pugs. OFA evaluation at 24 months recommended.

OFA Patella Evaluation — Normal

Patellar luxation is common in Pugs. OFA Grade 0 required.

Pug Dog Encephalitis (NME) — DNA Test

Necrotizing Meningoencephalitis is a progressive, fatal inflammatory brain disease unique to Pugs. DNA testing classifies dogs as Low Risk, Intermediate Risk, or High Risk. Low Risk studs are strongly preferred.

Hemivertebrae — Awareness

Malformed vertebrae cause spinal cord compression. Spinal radiographs can identify affected dogs. Studs with severe hemivertebrae should not be bred.

Whelping in Pugs

Pugs have one of the highest C-section rates of any breed. Ask about the whelping history of the stud's litters.

What Does a Pug Stud Fee Cost?

Pug stud fees in 2026 typically range from $600 to $2,500 depending on BOAS grade, NME DNA risk status, full health testing, and show record.

Questions to Ask Before Booking

• How is his breathing — any signs of BOAS at rest or during activity?
• Has he been DNA tested for NME?
• Can I see OFA hip, patella, and current CAER eye exam?
• What has been the whelping history of his litters?
• Will you provide a written stud contract?

Summary

A quality Pug stud breathes easily (Grade 0 or 1 BOAS), has open nares, NME DNA testing, OFA hip and patella, and a current CAER eye exam. The Pug's future depends on breeders who prioritize health and function.