When looking for a dog, a person who is interested in becoming the owner of a small and elegant canine would most likely come across Pug and French Bulldog as potential candidates. Both of these canine breeds are well-known and well-liked by dog enthusiasts. But which one is better among the both?
Actually, both these breeds are best in their sense. Both are small dog breeds that can easily live in small apartments and have minimal living needs. But despite their similarities, we think French Bulldog is a better choice than Pug. A Pug requires more intensive training and less grooming, and they are less sturdy than Frenchies.
Other than that, both Pug and Frenchies are brachiocephalic breeds, which means both of these dogs face similar health problems. However, it's common for people to get mixed up between these two canines because they have many similarities. But they also have a lot of distinctions between one another. So, let us discuss these two breeds and see which one is better.
Size And Weight
The average height of a Frenchie (French Bulldog) is 12 inches, and they typically weigh between 18 and 27 pounds, but the average height of a Pug is between 11 and 14 inches, and they usually weigh between 15 and 18 pounds. So, in terms of height, both are almost the same, but in terms of weight, the French Bulldog is bulkier or better than Pug.
Training
Both dogs are eager to learn new things and quickly pick up their training. However, because they are little dogs with large personalities and a stubborn streak, you will need to be committed to your chosen training routine. Always remember that consistency is the key to success!
Temperament
This is another instance in which the similarities are brought into play. Pugs and Frenchies are two of the friendliest dog breeds, and having either one around is sure to brighten up your day. They have a warm and caring personality, making them an excellent addition to any home. They get along splendidly with more members of a family and, provided they are socialized from an early age, with any animals or other pets that live in the home as well.
However, not one of them is extremely active. They spend the most of their life sleeping, despite the fact that they are sufficiently eager to follow you about the home. In spite of this, they have more than enough time to play, and of the two, pugs are probably the silliest of the two. This is one of the reasons why people refer to them as the clowns of the dog world. Pugs, on the other hand, will keep their childlike demeanor throughout their whole lives, in contrast to Frenchies, who will "grow up" as they age.
Lifespan
When it comes to the length of a dog's life, the quality of the care given to the dog is undoubtedly one of the most important aspects; nevertheless, there are other considerations, most notably the breed of the dog. So, the average lifespan of a Pug is between 13 and 15 years, which is significantly longer than that of a French Bulldog, i.e., 12 to 14 years.
Grooming Needs
The Pug and the French Bulldog are considered short-haired dog breeds. French Bulldogs are notorious for possessing stunning soft coats that are similar in texture to silk. Still, they are also highly susceptible to skin allergies, which can cause allergic reactions in humans. They rarely shed, so you only need to brush them once a week.
On the other hand, Pugs, like French Bulldogs, have soft coats; however, their shedding is somewhat heavier than that of the French Bulldog. Weekly brushing might help control the shedding.
Both types of dogs require bathing less frequently than other animals unless they get into something really dirty or suffer from dry skin. Their toenails grow rapidly, requiring regular trimming since having their nails grow too long can be painful for them.
Health Issues
As mentioned earlier, Pugs and French Bulldogs are also examples of the brachycephalic breed. The unfortunate result of their small muzzles is that they frequently suffer from breathing difficulties, potentially developing into more severe health problems in the future.
Both dogs cannot withstand even relatively high temperatures for lengthy periods without suffering adverse effects on their health. As a result of the shape of their faces, they are unable to comfortably pant, which can lead to heat stroke as well as difficulties breathing. Both of these illnesses have the potential to result in an untimely passing.
Pugs and French Bulldogs, both of whom have a characteristic skin fold called an intertrigo, are predisposed to developing a condition called skin fold dermatitis. Friction is the leading cause of skin fold dermatitis, which leads to irritation and maybe an overgrowth of bacteria or other microbes on the skin's surface. This condition will most likely impact the facial fold, resulting in keratitis and ulceration.
Pugs may potentially suffer from a CNS disorder called Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE). It is a viral infection that can result in convulsions and blindness. In addition to being predisposed to Pug Dog Encephalitis, pugs are also at risk for various other health conditions, including hip dysplasia, luxating patella, and eye difficulties.
There is a possibility that Frenchies will acquire dietary allergies. They are more likely to be affected negatively by environmental allergens due to their susceptibility to allergic reactions. In addition, French Bulldogs frequently suffer from a condition known as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).
Popularity
Both of these breeds are incredibly well-liked, and they are excellent companion animals. The American Kennel Club (AKC) reports that the French Bulldog is now the most popular breed of dog in the United States (better than the Pug).
In 2017, the French Bulldog came in at number four on the list of the most popular dog breeds, while the Pug came in at number thirty-one.
Behavior With Children Or Other Family Members
Both of these breeds are known for their ability to win people over. They make excellent family pets and aren't troubled in the least by high-energy children playing with them; in fact, they seem to take pleasure in the interaction.
Neither of these breeds, however, is a good choice for a household that is constantly on the go and has little time to devote to their canine companions because of their hectic schedules.
Both Pugs and French Bulldogs have a tendency to build very strong relationships with their parents. They would suffer from feelings of isolation if left alone for extended periods of time.
Because they are both little dogs, they are able to adapt to living in either small or huge spaces. They are breeds with a high level of awareness, but they are unaffected by the sights and sounds of city life.
Nevertheless, the best environment for any species would be one that does not experience extremes of temperature or humidity.
Cost
Due to the fact that they are the two most popular breeds of tiny dogs, you should be ready to pay a substantial amount of money for a pure-bred pup. French bulldogs usually cost around $1500 to $3000. However, Pugs can cost $800 to $ 1500on on average.
Both of these breeds are relatively inexpensive to care for, especially compared to the standard veterinary costs associated with owning any dog.
However, owners should ensure they have some money set up for unexpected expenses if one of the health issues described previously manifests itself.
Conclusion
The Pug and the French Bulldog are two pretty popular breeds. Both of these dogs are very sweet and friendly, and they adore the company of people. There is no "correct" decision; instead, there is only the choice that is appropriate for you in light of your unique preferences and way of life.
But the French Bulldog is more popular, requires less grooming, and is more sturdy than Pug, which makes him a much better choice.

As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama.