Dog breed comparison
French Bulldog vs Pug
How the two compare on size, temperament, training, grooming and health, and which suits your home. The Pug tends to live about 1 year longer.
At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | French Bulldog | Pug |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Companion Dogs | Companion Dogs |
| Size | Small | Small |
| Height | 11 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder | 10 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder |
| Weight | 16 to 28 pounds | 14 to 18 pounds |
| Life span | 11 to 14 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.
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Shedding
The Pug sheds more than the French Bulldog.
Exercise needs
The Pug needs more exercise than the French Bulldog.
Easy to train
The French Bulldog is easier to train than the Pug.
Intelligence
The French Bulldog is quicker to learn than the Pug.
Barking
The French Bulldog barks more than the Pug.
General health
The French Bulldog tends to have fewer health problems than the Pug.
Which to choose
French Bulldog or Pug?
Choose the French Bulldog if…
- You want a dog that sheds less
- You have less time for long walks (it needs less exercise)
- You want a dog that is easier to train
- You want a dog that is quicker to learn
Choose the Pug if…
- You’re out walking, running or hiking most days (it needs more exercise)
- You want a dog that barks less
Questions.
Is the French Bulldog or the Pug bigger, and which lives longer?
The Pug tends to live about 1 year longer. Individual pets vary, so meet the parents or the pet where you can.
Which is easier to train, the French Bulldog or the Pug?
The French Bulldog is generally easier to train than the Pug. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the French Bulldog or the Pug?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
The French Bulldog sheds less than the Pug. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
