When deciding whether to shortlist a Pug or a French Bulldog, we can help you make the right choice.
Here you can find out the basic differences and what to look out for in each dog breed.
The Pug – a true buddy for life
Typical breed characteristics
- Character: affectionate, obedient, friendly
- Size: 25 to 30 cm
- Weight: 6 to 8 kg
- Colours: Fawn, black and silver
- Life expectancy: 11 to 15 years
The pug, like other small dogs, used to be kept by kings in ancient China, where they had a very luxurious life. Even a light guard could boast a Pug at that time.
Later the Pug came to Europe via Holland and conquered the whole continent with his very lovable manner.
The Pug is a very compact dog and can weigh up to 8 kilograms and have a height of 30 centimetres. Its coat colours are fawn, black or silver.
Due to its very sociable nature and its great love for its owner, it is one of the most popular dog breeds of all.
Typical diseases of this breed are skin problems, patella luxation, herniated discs and especially breathing problems due to heat and exertion.
Care and training
The Pug is a very easy to care for and robust dog, as long as it has been bred healthily.
It should be fed a very healthy diet, as it often struggles with overweight. However, the Pug does not make great demands on his food and is very frugal.
However, his range of movement is somewhat limited, as he can get respiratory problems very quickly. Nevertheless, the Pug follows you wherever you go and is a lovely companion.
Due to its rather short coat, the Pug does not need much grooming. Nevertheless, it is advisable to keep the wrinkles on the head and face clean and dry.
Who is the Pug suitable for?
The Pug is a true family dog and adapts to any family situation. However, his owner should not expect too much athletic excellence from a Pug. He prefers to be a cosy armchair dog who likes to sit next to you on the couch in the evening and be cuddled.
The Pug can be taken everywhere and needs very little space. However, it should be handled very carefully and strictly, as many pugs have a stubborn head.
Also, if the Pug is to spend the night with you in your bedroom, be aware that he snores loudly and could disturb your sleep considerably.
He is very trusting and you can gain his trust very quickly, which makes him very popular with children.
The French Bulldog – the most patient and loyal partner in the world
Typical breed characteristics
- Character: active, affectionate, patient
- Size: up to 35 cm (in both sexes)
- Weight: 8 to 14 kilograms
- Colours: fawn, pied, black/white
- Life expectancy: 10 to 15 years
French Bulldogs are also popular for television because of their charming appearance and great patience. In the films Titanic or Armageddon, this lovable dog breed has made its appearances.
But also many celebrities like Lady Gaga, Leonardo Di Caprio are passionate owners of French Bulldogs.
French Bulldogs owe their popularity especially to their cute appearance and their loyalty.
With a size of up to 35 cm and a maximum weight of 14 kilograms, the French Bulldog is very compact and massive.
Typical diseases of this breed are respiratory problems, joint diseases, herniated discs, thyroid diseases.
Care and upbringing
The French Bulldog is very undemanding when it comes to grooming and a little daily grooming is enough.
The dog’s claws should not be neglected. Due to the lack of exercise, the claws cannot be filed down so quickly and must be checked monthly by the owner.
The French Bulldog needs strict training so that the dog also recognises it as an alpha dog. Find out more here: What to do if the dog does not listen to its name?
Too much sporting activity is not good for this breed of dog because of its shortness of breath, so daily exercise should be reduced to normal walks. Likewise, the French Bulldog is not one of the true lifeguards and should be kept away from water.
Especially in high temperatures, the robust dogs get very big respiratory problems and should rather stay in the shade.
Who is the French Bulldog suitable for?
The French Bulldog is not a big problem even for dog novices.
Especially families with children will enjoy this quite trusting and lovable dog.
With its very patient manner coupled with its cute appearance, it is one of the most popular dogs in the wide world.
Due to his shortness of breath, he is not the perfect jogging or cycling partner and prefers to settle for short walks through the park around the corner. You can also keep your French Bulldog busy at home.
Especially in summer, there should always be a shady spot for the French Bulldog.
Pug and French Bulldog- The direct differences in temperament
The French Bulldog can be heavier despite being almost identical in size.
Both breeds are very people-oriented and will follow their owner wherever they go. The Pug does this better and more loyally than the French Bulldog. On the other hand, the French Bulldog is a bit more playful and patient than the Pug.
Both dog breeds have a hard time with sporting activities and need a shady place to rest and linger, especially in summer.
Likewise, both are very stubborn dog breeds and therefore need strict training and a very healthy diet, as both are prone to overweight.
Here we have summarized our most popular articles for you in a great overview:
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- How much exercise does a French Bulldog need?
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- Cane Corso: Suitable as a beginner dog or family dog?
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- What to consider when buying a dog?
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Conclusion on two lovely dog breeds
Whether it’s a Pug or a French Bulldog, choosing a dog comes with the fact that you have to take responsibility.
In any case, it requires perseverance in training. Even though both dog breeds are considered “beginner dogs”, they still need to be well trained.
Both the Pug and the French Bulldog have an inherently lovable nature. Once you have chosen one of these dog breeds, you will always want to have that dog again.
Can you imagine living with a dog? Inform yourself well and you will get a faithful companion!
