French Bulldog vs Pug: What Are The Differences?

When it comes to choosing a small, adorable canine companion, the French Bulldog and Pug are 2 breeds that often spring to mind. These dog breeds have a lot in common, such as their compact size and affectionate personalities, but they also have distinct characteristics that make them unique. Want to know the key differences between French Bulldogs and Pugs? Let's find out! 

French Bulldog vs Pug: Origins 

As the name suggests, the French Bulldog has French origins. Initially popular for ratting during the 1800s in the lace factories of Nottingham, England, English Toy Bulldogs were taken over to Normandy in France when lacemakers needed work after machinery had replaced most of their jobs in England. It was here that these dogs were bred to become the French Bulldog breed we know and love today. 

Whereas French Bulldogs have their origins in France, Pugs are believed to have originated in ancient China all the way back in 400BC. Kept by Chinese emperors, they've since been adopted by royalty and the wealthy in many other countries, with their popularity also spreading amongst the general population and remaining strong today.

French Bulldog vs Pug: Appearance

Whilst French Bulldogs and Pugs have many similar features, the distinctive bat-like ears of French Bulldogs gives away their breed. French Bulldogs are also heavier than Pugs, but Pugs have a more round body.

French Bulldogs are small, compact and muscular dogs with a smooth, short coat and a flat face with wrinkles. They very much resemble a bulldog in miniature version, apart from their trademark ears.

Pugs are also small, muscular dogs with short coats and floppy ears. They have a wrinkled face, curly tail, and big, expressive eyes, which are one of their most charming features.

French Bulldog vs Pug: Temperament

French Bulldogs and Pugs have very similar temperaments. They're both friendly, affectionate, good with children, and they're usually good with other dogs, which explains why both breeds are popular as family pets. Both Frenchies and Pugs are highly adaptable to different environments, which makes it easy to take them out and about with you. 

Whilst both breeds can overeat, Pugs are the most food-obsessed of the 2, so care must be taken with food portions. 

French Bulldog vs Pug: Exercise Needs

Both French Bulldogs and Pugs are not very active dogs, making them ideal breeds for apartment living. They do, however, need moderate amounts of exercise.

Pugs' love of food combined with their love for relaxing on the couch can mean obesity can easily become a problem, so their diet and exercise need to be carefully managed.

As both Frenchies and Pugs are flat-faced breeds, it's worth bearing in mind that they can struggle with breathing in hot weather, so strenuous activities at these times must be avoided.

French Bulldog vs Pug: Health Issues

Both breeds are susceptible to various health issues. As flat-faced breeds, both French Bulldogs and Pugs are prone to breathing issues, particularly during hot weather. Both also can suffer from other health issues, including eye problems, skin allergies, and ear infections.

An extremely important point we must raise here is that French Bulldogs should never be left unattended near a body of water, such as a pool. Because they are front-heavy, they are unable to swim and can quickly get into difficulty.   

French Bulldog vs Pug: Grooming

French Bulldogs and Pugs have similar grooming requirements, with weekly brushing usually being the ideal frequency. Whilst both breeds have short coats, Pugs tend to shed more, particularly during the summer. Neither breed needs to be bathed on a very frequent basis, but they both need to have their facial wrinkles checked to make sure they're clean.

Both French Bulldogs and Pugs are easy-to-look-after dogs that can make excellent pets for families. They're both small in size, but have some noticeable differences in their appearances. If you're thinking of getting a new dog, it's worth taking the health issues these breeds can face into account. Shop French Bulldog and Pug apparel today, or explore all breeds in our vast selection!