pugs can also be hurt by "necrotizing meningoencephalitis" (nme). nme is an inflammation of the brain and meninges. it is also known as "pug dog encephalitis" (pde). there is no known cure or explanation for nme, although most people believe it is a disease that dogs may inherit from their mother or father. all dogs usually die within a few months after this disease, which usually happens from 6 months to 7 years of age.