Deciding which dog breed is the best fit for you and your family might seem like an impossible task. Especially if the decision making is between two amazing dog breeds like the French Bulldog and the Pug. Both look lovably alike, even though here at the Frenchiestore we know they are not the same. 

There are distinct differences that tell the Frenchie from the pug dog breeds apart, and in many situations, which dog you pick may boil down to these differences. What do you need to know about their differences and how can this help pick the best fit for your family between these two loving companions?

Here, we will explore all the similarities and differences between the Pug and the Frenchie dog breeds, as well as what might tip the scale for you when the decision comes right down to the wire. And if after all is said and done, you still can’t decide, we have another suggestion for you!

Frenchie Versus Pug – 2 Different Breeds Even Though They look Alike!

Appearance French Bulldog v. Pug

The French Bulldog and the Pug are quite similar in height, weight and body type. While they both have flat muzzles, the French Bulldog has large erect ears while the Pug’s ears are down and floppy. 

The French bulldog and pugs body style is very similar for the most part however the Frenchie looks stocky and athletic, while the pug looks stocky and more wrinkly just like the English bulldog breed. The pug has a large round head with big eyes and deep wrinkles. And although the French Bulldog also has some face wrinkles, they are lesser than the Pug’s (A Pug’s wrinkles continue way up his nose and up his forehead). A Frenchie’s top lip overhangs the bottom one, creating an adorable pout.  

The Pug has a curly tail while the French bulldog has a naturally short tail without being docked. They really do look similar but these differences in their appearances can help you tell them apart.

Temperaments between the Pug and French Bulldog puppies

Both the Pug and the French Bulldog are wonderful family pet dog breeds. They make great apartment dogs and are usually friendly towards strangers. They have a lot of love to give and they are very affectionate towards their owners. They trail after you everywhere you go, almost like having a dog as your shadow. You look back and there they are even when you go to the bathroom.

Due to the fact that they crave companionship and attention, leaving them alone for long periods of time will trigger separation anxiety. Do not be deceived by their small statures, they will wreak havoc to your furniture, your pillows, and everything in your home. They do not like to be left alone for too long.

These dogs can be really silly and amusing, they just want to make you laugh. However, when it comes to Pug vs French Bulldog personality, the Pug is the biggest clown with its mischievous antics and the Pug never really outgrows this puppy persona. Whereas, the Frenchie is very likely to become ‘wiser’ and much more laid back with time than the Pug. 

Although neither of the breeds need much exercise, sometimes, the Pug is more active than the French Bulldog and tends to bark more though not excessively. This is a factor to consider if you have noise restrictions in your apartment. 

 

Colors and Coat of the Frenchie and pug dog

Pugs usually come in all black and fawn colors with a black mask while the French bulldog can be fawn, brindle, all black, cream or white. And they can be without or with a mask. The French Bulldog’s coat is usually fine and smooth while the Pug’s coat is thick and coarse. 

There are exception to these rules such as albino pugs or French Bulldogs, they always have blue eyes and the albinism is usually caused by a prevalent health issue.

Rare colors in French Bulldogs include but not limited to:blue Frenchie, blue pied Frenchie, blue fawn Frenchie , blue brindle Frenchie, black and tan Frenchie, blue and tan Frenchie, lilac and tan Frenchie, chocolate and tan Frenchie, brindle in tan points, pure black French Bulldogs, merle Frenchie, fawn merle Frenchie, blue merle Frenchie, chocolate Frenchie , choco pied Frenchie, choco fawn Frenchie, Sable French Bulldogs, Isabella French bulldogs etc.

Height, Weight and Size

Both dogs are small sized companion dogs and are ideal for apartment living. But there are some notable differences. The Pug measures from about 10 to 14 inches in height while the French bulldog measures from 11 to 15 inches. 

The Pug weighs between 14 to 18 pounds while the French bulldog weighs from 20 to 30 pounds. The French bulldog is stockier, weighs more and looks athletic when compared to the Pug who weighs less, is not as stocky and looks like a couch potato which is a bit ironic as they can be more active than the Frenchie. 

Lifespan, Exercise and Care

Pugs tend to live longer than the French Bulldog. Pugs live between 12 to 15 years while the French bulldog lives 10 to 12 years. However, a dog can live longer if their diet, care, lifestyle and exercise is met.

Both the Pug and the French bulldog do not have excessive exercise requirements. A few walks around the block and some mental stimulation is really all that is needed to keep them in shape. The Pug needs about 40 minutes of exercise per day while the French bulldog only requires 20 – 30 minutes of exercise and frequent breaks. These dogs do not cope well in hot weather, so they shouldn’t do a lot of exercise in one go and walking in cooler temperatures will be beneficial. 

When caring for your Frenchie or Pug, you should know that they both require frequent grooming. With French Bulldogs, you can brush their coat 2 – 3 times a week as they do not shed so much but with the Pug, their coats have to be brushed daily and outdoors. This is to make clean up easier as they shed a lot more than the Frenchie. 

In addition to brushing them, they both need their wrinkles constantly cleaned to avoid skin infections or tear stains, they will also require regular baths, nail trimmings and teeth brushing. 

 

Cost, Training and Health Issues of the pug and Frenchie puppies

French Bulldogs cost more than Pugs, this is because a Frenchie cannot reproduce or give birth without the help of a vet and this adds to the expense. A Pug can cost anything from $1000 - $1500 upwards while a Frenchie costs $2500 and upwards of $5000. Those prices reflect the common and standard colors of French Bulldogs.

Both breeds are really intelligent and can learn exceptionally well with the right motivation but they are both stubborn and challenging to train or housebreak. The Pug is the more challenging of the two and you will need a lot of patience. 

Both the Pug and the Frenchie are prone to a long list of health issues including breathing conditions, this is mainly due to their facial structure. But the Pug is especially prone to hip dysplasia, luxating patella, epilepsy, skin allergies and eye problems. He is also prone to a neurological disease which causes an inflammation of the brain tissues that results ultimately in death. 

While the French bulldog is especially prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease, this can occur from a fall. That is, the injury from falling can cause a serious disease and infection. Breeding is also very difficult for Frenchies, they are usually artificially inseminated and give birth through CS. These treatments are part of the reason why a French bulldog is so costly. 

Which Is Better, A Pug Or A French Bulldog? 

Now that you have all the information you need, it should be easier to make a choice. In making this decision, you should consider your living space, your budget, your lifestyle and the amount of time you have to spend with a dog. If the decision still proves difficult, there’s an alternative. The solution might be to get a Frug!

What is a Frug? 

A Frug is crossbreed between the Pug and the French bulldog. And since both of his parents are bred for companionship, you are in for one of the best canine buddies ever. In looks, the Frug is very likely to inherit a perfect blend of his parents. With the wrinkled face of the Pug, large erect ears of the Frenchie, short curly tail, a wide smile and big round eyes, you can expect the Frug to melt the heart of everyone he meets. All Frugs look different and can look more like the Frenchie or the pug and it would depend on how strong and dominant the parents genes are.

 

 

A Frug is very sociable, lovable and incredibly stubborn. If you are a first-time dog owner, or an inexperienced dog parent you might not want to start with such a stubborn dog breed. Frug puppies need proper training in order to develop into well-rounded sociable dogs, if you think that you are up to the task. Then, roll up your sleeves and go for it.

A Frug puppy costs between $1000 - $2000. This is because everybody wants one and because the French Bulldog (which is usually the mother) requires artificial insemination and the entire process is very expensive and requires deep expertise. 

Frugs do incredibly well as pets for a family, a couple, a single dweller, anybody. This breed is so full of character and they really want to impress you. 

Get a Frug, a Pug, or a French Bulldog

Having a canine buddy is truly unlike any other, and we’d like you to have this experience. Choose a breed and enjoy your canine journey. Of course, you’d have to find a reputable breeder and a vet that is close by. If you’d like more information or any help about caring for your furry friend, do not hesitate to sign up to ourFrenchie Blog.