Pug vs Frenchie
Pugs and Frenchies are popular, well-loved small dog breeds known for their flat faces, short snouts, and wrinkles. While these adorable dogs look very similar and are difficult to tell apart, there are significant differences worth getting to know, especially if you’re considering adopting or buying a Pug or Frenchie puppy. Both pets make great companion dogs for families and households of all sizes.
The Origin of Frenchie and Pug Dogs
Frenchies, also called French Bulldogs, originated from England, whereas Pugs are ancient dogs that are from China. Before Frenchies became commonplace in the United Kingdom, they became a popular dog in France, and this success quickly followed with renewed popularity across Europe, the U.S., and the world.
Both dogs were bred almost exclusively for companionship and are considered excellent family pets. Due to their similar characteristics, Pugs and Frenchies are often crossbred to design Frenchie Pugs or French Bulldog Pug mix. They tend to be sedentary, prefer little activity, and make great lap dogs.
Health and Life Expectancy
Pugs and Frenchies have similar health concerns because they are a brachycephalic breed, which refers to their distinct short snout, elongated soft palate, and narrow airways, that may restrict their breathing, especially during hot or humid conditions. Frenchies tend to live longer than Pugs, with a life expectancy of up to fifteen years, whereas Pugs can live up to ten years.
Since both Pugs and Frenchies are brachycephalic dogs, monitoring their breathing, nutrition, and activity levels is crucial to ensure they maintain a healthy life. The main health problems to look for involve eye disease, hip dysplasia, back issues, obesity, and common conditions related to these.
It’s essential to ensure that your Pug or Frenchie doesn’t overeat or become exposed to extreme temperatures. These small dog breeds are prone to obesity, which can lead to many other health issues, and they are sensitive to changes in climate.
Physical Characteristics
Pugs and French Bulldogs are flat-faced breeds with similar physical characteristics, such as their small body frame, large eyes, and narrow airways. Pugs are slightly smaller, weighing between fourteen and eighteen pounds, with a height between ten and fourteen inches. Frenchies are heavier and stockier in stature, with a weight range of sixteen to twenty-eight pounds and a height of five inches.
Their fur type and coat colors vary considerably, so you’ll need to groom a Pug’s coat more frequently to reduce shedding, as this breed has a thick double coat. Frenchies have thin, short-haired coats that are generally easy to comb and don’t shed as much.
Pugs come in two coat colors, fawn and black, whereas Frenchies are available in white, brindle, fawn, and cream colors. Frenchies also have more color variations, usually mixed in a brindle pattern.
While both dogs are considered passive, the Pug is moderately active, and the Frenchie is less physical. They require light-impact exercise, such as walking and playing at home, and a balanced diet, to maintain a healthy body weight.
Pugs and Frenchies are known for their bat ears, which are medium in size, and tend to stand up on a Frenchie and fold a bit downward on Pugs. Pugs have smaller ears and large eyes and their ears are usually one of two distinct shapes: they either fold slightly backward, or the top half of the ears fold over.
Pugs have a small, corkscrew tail, while Frenchies have a stump-shaped tail that is either curly or straight. Since both dogs have short coats, they are easy to groom and only require a bath once a month.
Personality and Temperament
Pugs tend to be more alert than Frenchies, which means they bark more often, whereas the Frenchie is more laid-back. Pugs are often seen as humorous for their mischievous behavior and personality.
Both dog breeds are highly affectionate and love socializing with children and other pets. While Frenchies enjoy human companionship, they tend to be more serious and not as funny or playful as Pugs. They may become challenging to train, even puppies, due to their naturally stubborn personality.
Both dogs are easy to train, especially young puppies. Frenchies and Pugs are protective and alert dog owners if there is a threat or danger. They like companionship, don’t like being left alone for long periods and prefer regular human interaction. Both dog breeds are ideal for small living spaces.
Which Dog Breed Is Best: Pugs or Frenchie Puppies?
Pugs and Frenchies are popular breeds worldwide and are among the top pups to adopt or buy in the U.S. While both breeds make excellent household pets, the choice between a Pug and a Frenchie largely depends on personal preference.
The Pug’s entertaining, comedic character is why some families enjoy this breed and how they interact with children, pets, and adults. Pugs are also an excellent pet for retired people who spend most of their time at home, as these small dogs don’t need regular walks outside like larger breeds.
Frenchies also make excellent pets, though you’ll find they are quieter and more relaxed than Pugs, which is a feature some pet owners prefer. Ultimately, you’ll find many lovable attributes in both of these small dog breeds, including similar breeds that are mixed, such as the Pug, French Bulldog, Toy Bulldog, Boston Terrier, and English Bulldog. When considering a puppy to bring home to the family, it’s crucial to research local breeders to ensure they are certified and reputable before you buy or adopt a dog.
If you’re uncertain about a puppy as the best fit for your household, older Pugs and Frenchies make excellent pets and tend to be more relaxed and laid-back than younger pups. Reputable breeders can provide a great selection of puppies with all the details you need to decide whether a Pug or Frenchie is ideal for you, including pedigree, family history, and health information about the breed and its characteristics.
