Pugs and Frenchies are very popular breeds that make the perfect family pet as well as a companion dog for older owners.
Both breeds are suitable for first-time owners and are relatively low-maintenance dogs.
| Breed | Pug | French Bulldog |
| Height | 10-13 inches | 11-14 inches |
| Weight | 14-18 pounds | 20-28 pounds |
| Temperament | Playful and Fun | Adaptable and Loyal |
| Energy Levels | Low to Medium | Low to Medium |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years | 10-12 years |
| Coat | Double coated; short, smooth in a range of colors including fawn and black, apricot, gray, and combinations. | A short fine coat that is smooth that varies in color including white, fawn, apricot, gray, brindle, and combinations. |
| Ear Shape | Floppy velvety ears that are folded with the front edge touching the head called ‘button’ ears or smaller ears called ‘rose’ ears. | Known as ‘bat ears’, they are wider at the bottom than the top. The ears stand upright and look super cute. |
| Colors | Black, fawn, white, brindle, and combinations. | White, fawn, black, apricot, brindle, and combinations. |
| General Appearance | Short muzzle with deep wrinkles on a round face and a tail that curves upwards. Famous for their big dark eyes and their short plump body. | Barrel-shaped body with a square, short-muzzle face, bat-like ears, and a stubby tail. A Muscular build with short, stocky legs. |
| Price | $1200-$5000 | $1500-$8000 |
Frenchie vs. Pug — Lifespan
Both the Frenchie & Pug have fairly long lifespans that are typically more than 10 years.
But while they might have similar lifespans, the Pug has the slight edge here with an average of 12–15 years compared to the Frenchie’s
| French Bulldog Lifespan | Pug Lifespan |
|---|---|
| 10–12 years | 12–15 years |
This might come as a surprise because of their breathing issues however larger dogs generally have shorter lifespans as a general rule.
The Winner: Pug
Frenchie vs. Pug — History
History of Frenchies
Despite their name, Frenchies are originally from England and were bred to be a small, toy-sized version of the standard Bulldog.
They were first bred in the 1800s in Nottingham and were a popular pet among the lace workers of the city.
However, towards the end of the 19th Century, the breed moved to France where they quickly became a favorite with society’s elite.
History of Pugs
Pugs are an extremely old breed of dog; in fact, they are one of the oldest dog breeds on earth!
Pugs are thought to have originated in China around 400 BC .
They were most likely bred as a lapdog for wealthy members of ancient Chinese society and have remained popular in both Asia as well as the Western world.
The Winner: Both!
Frenchie vs. Pug — Personality Traits
Pugs and Frenchies were bred to be loyal, loving and playful lap dogs.
They are not jealous and are friendly towards other people and dogs that they come into contact with.
Frenchie Personality Traits
- Smart and adaptable: French Bulldogs are intelligent and adaptable dogs, which can make them easy to train and great companions for a variety of lifestyles.
- Playful and mischievous: French Bulldogs are known for their playful and mischievous personalities, and can be great companions for families with children or those who enjoy a good laugh.
- Easy to train, but stubborn: While French Bulldogs are generally easy to train, they can also be stubborn and require patience and consistency in training.
- Love to be the center of attention: French Bulldogs love to be the center of attention and thrive on human interaction and companionship.
- Cuddly and affectionate: French Bulldogs are known for their cuddly and affectionate nature, and enjoy spending time with their owners.
Pug Personality Traits
- Friendly and sociable: Pugs are generally friendly and sociable dogs, and enjoy being around people.
- Affectionate and cuddly: Pugs are known for their affectionate and cuddly personalities, and enjoy spending time with their owners.
- Playful and mischievous: Pugs have a playful and mischievous streak, and enjoy playtime and interaction with their owners.
- Stubborn: Pugs can be stubborn at times, which can make training a challenge.
- Good with children and other pets: Pugs are generally good with children and other pets, and can be a great addition to a family.
- Sensitive to their owner’s emotions: Pugs are known for being sensitive to their owner’s emotions, and can be a comforting presence when their owner is feeling down.
The Winner: Both!
Frenchie vs. Pug — Appearance
I doubt a day goes by where a Frenchie isn’t mistaken for a Pug (or vice-versa)…
Both Pugs and Frenchies are small dogs with sturdy bodies and a low center of gravity.
Did I mention that they’re both the cutest dogs?
Frenchie Appearance
Frenchies have a characteristic barrel-shaped body with a thick neck and a square, short-snouted face.
They have distinctive ‘bat ears’ that stick up in the air, a stubby tail, and sweet loving eyes.
Pug Appearance
Pugs are slightly smaller than Frenchies and have deep wrinkles on their faces and bodies.
They have huge dark eyes and floppy ears with the front edge closest to the head.
Pugs have small, plump bodies with a curly tail and short squat legs.
The Winner: Frenchie (we are definitely biased)
Frenchie vs. Pug — Colors
Both Frenchies and Pugs come in a variety of colors— but only some are recognized by the AKC.
Frenchie AKC Colors
There are 8 French Bulldog colors officially recognized by the AKC. Any other colors would be disqualified from AKC registration.
- Cream
- Fawn
- White
- Fawn & White
- Brindle
- White & Brindle
- Fawn Brindle
- Fawn Brindle & White
Pug AKC Colors
- Fawn
- Black
Surprisingly, there are only two official AKC Pug colors: fawn and black
The Winner: Frenchie
Frenchie vs. Pug — Health Problems
French Bulldog Health Problems
- Joint problems
- Breathing issues
- Spinal issues
- Eye problems
Pug Health Problems
- Eye problems: Eye ulcers & infections
- Breathing issues: Similar to Frenchies
- Joint issues: hip dysplasia, spinal issues, neck issues
- Allergies: can cause skin issues
The Winner: Pug
Trying to decide between a French Bulldog and Pug?
As two of the world’s most popular breeds, Frenchies and Pugs are cute and loveable bundles of playful fun.
They both make wonderful family pets and are low-maintenance dogs that are keen to please their owners.
So if you’re thinking about bringing a new dog into your life then you certainly couldn’t go wrong with either breed!