Dog breed comparison
Boston Terrier vs Pug
How the two compare on size, temperament, training, grooming and health, and which suits your home.
At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Boston Terrier | Pug |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Companion Dogs | Companion Dogs |
| Size | Small | Small |
| Height | 12 to 15 inches | 10 to 14 inches |
| Weight | 10 to 25 pounds | 14 to 18 pounds |
| Life span | 13 to 15 years | 12 to 15 years |
| Energy | ||
| Exercise needs | ||
| Easy to train | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Friendly with strangers | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Easy to groom | ||
| Barking | ||
| Apartment living | ||
| First-time owners | ||
| Copes alone | ||
| Drooling | ||
| General health |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Background
Where they come from.
The Boston Terrier
Created in Boston in the 1870s from a cross between an English Bulldog and a white English terrier. It is nicknamed the American Gentleman for its tuxedo markings.
Its flat face makes it prone to breathing trouble and overheating, so take care in hot weather.
Health to watch
- Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome
- Corneal ulcers
- Cataracts
- Patellar luxation
- Deafness
The Pug
An ancient Chinese breed kept by emperors. It reached Europe with Dutch traders in the 1500s and became the mascot of the House of Orange.
Its flat face and prominent eyes cause breathing trouble, overheating and eye injuries.
Health to watch
- Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome
- Pug dog encephalitis
- Corneal ulcers
- Hemivertebrae
- Obesity
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Shedding
The Pug sheds more than the Boston Terrier.
General health
The Boston Terrier tends to have fewer health problems than the Pug.
Intelligence
The Boston Terrier is quicker to learn than the Pug.
Copes alone
The Boston Terrier copes better when left alone than the Pug.
Energy
The Boston Terrier has more energy than the Pug.
Exercise needs
The Boston Terrier needs more exercise than the Pug.
Which to choose
Boston Terrier or Pug?
Choose the Boston Terrier if…
- You want a dog that sheds less
- You want a dog that tends to have fewer health problems
- You want a dog that is quicker to learn
- You want a dog that copes better when left alone
Choose the Pug if…
- You’d like a calmer pet (it is calmer)
- You have less time for long walks (it needs less exercise)
- You want a dog that barks less
- You want a dog that suits first-time owners better
Questions.
Which is easier to train, the Boston Terrier or the Pug?
The Boston Terrier is generally easier to train than the Pug. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Boston Terrier or the Pug?
The Boston Terrier is usually the better fit for families with children, though a well-socialised Pug can be great too. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
The Boston Terrier sheds less than the Pug. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
What health problems do the Boston Terrier and Pug have?
The Boston Terrier is prone to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, corneal ulcers, cataracts. The Pug is prone to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, pug dog encephalitis, corneal ulcers. Both share a risk of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome and corneal ulcers. Ask any breeder for the parents' health test results.
