Pugs and Boston Terriers each have their very own unique and specific traits that make them a great addition to your home. They make excellent companion dogs, and that’s why they are trendy dog breeds. The big question here is which one is the most suitable for your home? Boston Terrier vs Pug.
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Introduction to Boston Terrier and Pug
Boston Terriers
Boston Terriers are said to have originated from America, a crossbreed of English Bulldogs and White English Terriers. Boston Terriers are often referred to as “The American Gentleman” because of the white markings on their face, chest, and muzzle that give them a formal appearance like they’ve worn a tuxedo.
Pugs
Pugs are ancient Chinese dogs that made their way to other parts of the world through Dutch traders. That’s why they are often referred to as Chinese Pugs. They are also known as Dutch Mastiff or Dutch Bulldog. In this article, we will help you decide which is more suited for you and your family. There are a lot of things that should be considered besides their body and origin.
Boston Terrier vs Pug: The Comparison
Size and appearance:
Both dog breeds are lapdogs, meaning that they are small enough to be carried and placed on your laps, but Pugs are still slightly smaller than Boston Terriers with short, straight and sturdy legs. They are well known for their facial wrinkles, round heads, black ‘face mask,’ compact body, large round eyes, and curled tail. They like to sleep a lot and can get chubby, but their weight generally varies from 14 to 18 pounds.
Boston Terriers weigh more than Pugs at 15-25 pounds and are more muscular, with a well-defined chest. They have a height of about12-16 inches, which is a few inches higher than that of Pugs (10-13 inches). They are small and compact with a short corkscrew or straight tail, square-shaped heads, protruding eyes, broad wrinkle-free head and erect ears. They have either a seal, brindle, or black coating with white markings.
Boston Terriers and Pugs are both Brachycephalic dog breeds with their flat faces and short nose. Their short noses have often led to snorting, snoring and breathing problems, all part of Brachycephalic airway syndrome, as their airway is partially obstructed.
Personality:
When it comes to temperament and personality, Boston Terriers and Pugs share the friendly and sociable trait. Both the Boston Terrier and Pug are highly intelligent, very friendly, and stubborn, making training them a little more challenging. However, Boston Terriers are easier to train.
Pugs are a bit harder to train unless you can make it fun, with many positive reinforcements because these dogs are all about fun. Pugs have a clown-like nature. Their short noses, which often lead to breathing problems, hinder them from going for long walks and doing any strenuous exercises or training. They also don’t fare too well in very hot or cold weather.
They are both companion dogs and thrive well in large households with kids or where they get to spend quality time with their owners. So, you shouldn’t get either if you’re not going to have the time to spend with them.
Shedding and grooming:
Pugs do not have as many muscles as Boston Terriers, but they make up for it with their double coating, either tan or black. This, however, means that they shed more than Boston Terriers. They shed a lot, and you should consider this if you or any family members have allergies. An excellent de-shedding shampoo, daily brushing and proper diet can help minimize the shedding.
Because Boston Terriers do not shed as much as Pugs do, they are thus easier to groom. However, both breeds still require minimal grooming. Require regular nail trimming, baths, and teeth brushing.
Note that you’ll have to regularly clean the creases on Pugs’ faces with a clean cloth or dry cotton balls because of the many wrinkles on their faces. Skinfold dermatitis can set in if they are not well-kept.
Lifespan of Boston Terrier vs Pug:
Boston Terriers can typically live for 11-13 years. Pugs also have a similar lifespan, albeit a bit longer by one or two years. This is common with most dogs of the same size. However, they could live shorter or longer depending on their health, lifestyle, grooming, and diet.
They are both healthy dogs, but their short noses and bulging eyes make them susceptible to breathing difficulties, eye injuries. Their short coats and muzzles cause many problems for them in cold and hot weather, ultimately affecting their life expectancy.
Price (buying and raising):
Neither breed is too expensive to look after. They are not picky eaters. They will be fine as long as their daily fat and protein requirements are met. Poor diet often causes them to be obese. However, Boston Terriers are not as prone to obesity as Pugs. Half a cup of quality dog food twice per day is perfect for Pugs. Boston Terriers can be fed 1 to 2 cups of food per day.
Boston Terriers can sell for as much as $800 per puppy. Pugs are more expensive than Boston Terriers, and their prices could start from $1000. It is also impossible to avoid going to the vet. You have to take them for yearly checkups, and if they suffer from any medical problem, it might be expensive to treat.
Conclusion:
It’s a tough decision when it comes down to picking one out of these two adorable dogs. But you can’t go wrong with your choice as they both make for excellent fun and companion dogs. Or, if you want, you can decide to go for Buggs, the crossbreed of Boston Terrier and Pug.
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