Breeders and veterinarians will definitely never confuse a pug with a French bulldog, but those who are just planning to get a dog may think that these two breeds are very similar. There are indeed similarities between them, but if you look closely, they are completely different dogs, both in appearance and in personality traits. Let’s compare the Pug and the French Bulldog and identify the signs that indicate the similarities and differences between these two dog breeds.

Similarities between pugs and French bulldogs

Appearance. Both dog breeds are small in size. Both the Pug and the French Bulldog can grow to a size of 25-35 cm, depending on whether it is a male or a female. Pugs weigh 6-10 kg, French bulldogs – 10-15 kg. The latter weigh more because of their strong body and wide bones.

Neither dog can be called fragile and graceful, but rather sturdy and strong, with a well-developed system of muscles and muscles. Despite their small size, they have a rather expressive appearance, all thanks to the shape of their head and body. The main similarity between pugs and French bulldogs is a wide, shortened muzzle, which experts call “flattened” or flattened, and is characteristic of all brachycephalic dogs (from the Greek for “short head”). This is the name of the dog breeds that have a characteristic feature – a flat, shortened muzzle, a wide skull, and narrowed nostrils. The most popular brachycephalic breeds include English and French bulldogs, boxers, pugs, Pekingese, and Shih Tzus.

Character. Pugs and French Bulldogs are very similar in their friendly attitude towards people. They like to spend time with their owners, are very loyal and quickly become attached to them, and get along well with children and other pets. Both breeds have some peculiarities in their behavior: they can be stubborn and wayward, but generally not prone to aggression, have a positive attitude and gentle disposition, but require a lot of attention and love from the owner, and are friendly to strangers because they do not like to be alone.

Maintenance. The size of the Pug and French Bulldog makes it possible to keep them even in a small apartment. However, in order to avoid problems with the joints of these dogs, as well as colds in them during the cold season, it is worth buying a house or bed for these pets. These dogs do not need much physical activity, and in the heat they are generally prohibited from long walks and physical activity. Therefore, in a spacious apartment or in a small private house, these pets can live without walking, which greatly simplifies their maintenance in the city.

Grooming. This is an important part of keeping any pet, and there are virtually no differences in the care of both breeds.

Both pugs and French bulldogs will need special procedures, in addition to cleaning their ears and teeth and claw trimming:

  • thoroughly wiping the eyes with a special lotion or solution – because light-colored dogs usually have discharge from the eyes;
  • daily wiping of the folds on the face and body with a special product, and then drying them completely to prevent irritation and infection;
  • mandatory combing of the hair 1-2 times a week with a massage glove or a brush for short-haired animals;
  • bathing the dog with a special shampoo as it gets dirty.

Health. Both Pugs and French Bulldogs have the same problem related to the breathing process. It occurs due to the shortened structure of the skull and is the cause of frequent respiratory diseases. Both breeds have brachycephalic syndrome, which is manifested by heavy breathing, snoring during sleep, difficulty breathing after exercise and in the heat, coughing and wheezing.

The large eyes of these dogs often cause problems such as blepharitis, glaucoma, cataracts, conjunctivitis, and eye trauma. Sometimes pugs and bulldogs have an abnormality called a prolapsed third eyelid.

Dogs of both breeds are equally likely to have allergic reactions to food, as well as atopic dermatitis due to improper care and hygiene products. Owners of these pets need to be very careful when preparing their diet and choosing cosmetics. In this case, it is better to consult a veterinarian and choose safe food and hypoallergenic care products.

In addition, the Pug and French Bulldog have another similar feature related to the birth of offspring. Very often, they cannot give birth on their own, as brachycephalic breeds have a high risk of complications during childbirth due to the large heads of puppies and narrow birth canals. Therefore, in such a situation, you have to seek the help of a veterinarian, who in this case performs a cesarean section.

We’ve looked at the similarities between pugs and French bulldogs. Now let’s talk about the differences that are inherent in these two charming breeds and can be traced in the character traits, appearance, habits, methods of education and training of these dogs.

Differences between pugs and French bulldogs

Appearance. The difference between the two breeds can be found in the build, muzzle expression, and shape of the ears. Pugs have a serious and even gloomy look on their faces, while French Bulldogs have a more friendly, open, and interested expression. The former are smaller and more compact in size, while the latter have a more square body shape, are taller and heavier in weight. Pugs have soft, sagging “button ears,” while bulldogs’ ears are large, wide at the base and narrower toward the tips, generally very similar to a bat’s ears. The former shed more heavily and have an undercoat that smells when it gets wet, while the latter do not. But both representatives need systematic combing of their fur.

Character. In general, dogs of both breeds are considered friendly and sociable, but there are some differences that are inherent in each of them. Pugs can be called bullies who do not mind fighting with other dogs, they are willful, so it is very important to do their socialization and education in a timely manner. French Bulldogs, on the other hand, are patient, quiet, independent, but somewhat stubborn. They are very attached to their owners and, in case of danger to them, immediately rush to their defense.

Maintenance. Pugs are active, a bit stubborn in nature, and can even be called mischievous. At the same time, they are easy to train if you start this process in time. Bulldogs can be called calm, even phlegmatic in temperament, although you can also find more energetic representatives. In general, they do not tend to bark loudly or run around the room quickly; instead, they like to lie down, sleep, and watch others. These dogs are easily socialized and accustomed to the rules set by the owner; they do not need strict training.

Health. Given the size and average life expectancy of both breeds, the Pug and French Bulldog can be considered long-lived dogs. They have both the same health problems associated with the structure of the skull (brachycephalic syndrome, mentioned earlier) and diseases unique to each of these breeds.

Pugs can suffer from obesity, urolithiasis, epileptic seizures, and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain tissue). The French Bulldog can suffer from otitis externa, heart failure, arthritis, and vertebral displacement. Therefore, a prerequisite for getting one of these breeds is a comprehensive familiarization with the peculiarities of its maintenance and care. And if you already own such a wonderful dog, be sure to find a good veterinarian for it, who will work with you to ensure that your pet is in excellent health.

After such a detailed comparison of both breeds, you will definitely have a logical question: who should you choose – a playful pug or a calm bulldog? Here, your choice depends solely on your own preferences and the lifestyle you are used to. It’s worth noting that pugs are easy to travel with because they are well-traveled and adventurous. Bulldogs, on the other hand, can be called real homebodies who seem to like to play, but most of the time they prefer to rest next to their owners. Dogs of both breeds will definitely become loyal friends and wonderful pets for both large families and single people.

Now you know for sure the difference between a Pug and a French Bulldog, and how they are similar to each other. We will be glad if our comparison helps you make the best choice of a pet. You can find all the detailed information about keeping and caring for these dog breeds on the pages of our online magazine.

If you already have such a dog and are looking for a professional assistant to ensure the elegant appearance of a Pug or French Bulldog, we invite you to one of our grooming salons V.O.G DOG SALON in Kyiv and Kriukivshchyna village. Our groomers will offer you a wide range of services to care for your Tail’s appearance – from a haircut to a full set of grooming procedures.