Pug vs Boston Terrier: The Differences (With Pictures)

Pugs and Boston Terriers: Comparing Two Popular Companion Breeds

When it comes to small dog breeds well-suited for companionship, the Pug and Boston Terrier are two extremely popular choices. With their cute, smushy faces and affectionate, playful personalities, it‘s easy to see why these pint-sized pooches have won so many hearts. And while the Pug and Boston Terrier do share a number of similarities, there are also some key differences between these two breeds that are important to understand when deciding which one might be the best fit for you and your lifestyle. In this article, we‘ll take an in-depth look at the Pug vs Boston Terrier matchup, comparing and contrasting them on everything from history and appearance to temperament, trainability, health, and more. By the end, you‘ll have a much clearer picture of what each of these delightful breeds brings to the table.

The History of the Pug and Boston Terrier

Let‘s start with a bit of backstory on where these two breeds came from, beginning with the Pug. This breed‘s origins go back an impressive 2000 years to ancient China, where Pugs served as cherished companions to Chinese Emperors and nobility. Pugs (along with Pekingese and other flat-faced toy breeds) were luxury dogs that lived pampered lives in the Imperial palaces and courts.

In the 16th-17th centuries, Dutch traders brought Pugs from China back to Europe, where they quickly charmed their way into the laps and hearts of many European royal families as well. Pugs became especially popular among the British aristocracy during the Victorian Era. After the Civil War, the breed made its way to the United States, where it was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885. While the Pug‘s popularity waxed and waned in the late 19th/early 20th century, the breed enjoyed a major resurgence in the late 1900s and remains one of the most beloved companion dogs today.

In contrast to the Pug‘s ancient Asian imperial origins, the Boston Terrier is a much more recent American creation, developed in Boston, Massachusetts (hence the name) in the late 1800s. The exact details of the Boston Terrier‘s ancestry are a bit murky, but it‘s generally accepted that the breed was created by crossing English Bulldogs with now-extinct white English Terriers, with a dash of other breeds like the French Bulldog also thrown into the mix.

The Boston Terrier‘s forebear was a dog named Judge, born in 1865, who was bred to create the original Boston Terrier prototype. These early "Round Heads" or "Bull Terriers" were heavier and more pit-fighter in appearance than the Boston we know today. Selective breeding transformed them into smaller, sweeter-faced companions. In 1889 fanciers formed the American Bull Terrier Club, renamed a couple years later as the Boston Terrier Club after the breed‘s birthplace. In 1893, the Boston Terrier became the first US breed recognized by the AKC.

While the Boston Terrier may have been initially intended as a scrappy ratter and pit fighter, the breed quickly transitioned into the role of companion, becoming the most popular purebred dog in the US by the early 20th century, a position it held until the 1960s. Today, the Boston Terrier ranks 21st out of 195 AKC-recognized breeds.

Comparing the Physical Appearance of the Pug vs Boston Terrier

In terms of size, both the Pug and Boston Terrier fall into the small dog category, though the Boston is typically a bit larger overall. Pugs generally stand 10-14 inches tall and weigh between 14-18 pounds when fully grown. Boston Terriers have a height of 12-15 inches and a weight range of 10-25 pounds. So while there is some overlap, you can expect a Boston to be a couple inches taller and a few pounds heavier on average than a Pug.

Both breeds also share the characteristic flat faces and bulging eyes associated with brachycephalic (short-headed) dogs. However, the Pug‘s muzzle is even flatter, with more pronounced facial wrinkles, while the Boston Terrier‘s face is slightly more elongated. Their ears are also different, with the Pug‘s ears being small, thin, and folded over, while the Boston sports upright, pointed ears.

One of the most notable differences between these two breeds is in their coat colors and patterns. The typical Pug comes in one of two colors—fawn (a light yellowish-tan) with a black face mask and ears, or all black. They have short, smooth, glossy coats that shed moderately.

Boston Terriers, on the other hand, are famous for their dapper black and white tuxedo-style coats, which earned them the nickname "The American Gentleman." The required Boston coat is brindle, seal, or black with white markings in a specific pattern—a white chest, muzzle band, and blaze between the eyes. They can also have a small white collar and white on the forelegs and hocks. Their short, smooth coat is low-shedding.

Personality Differences Between the Pug and Boston Terrier

Given their histories and original purposes, it‘s not surprising that there are some key differences between the typical temperaments of Pugs vs Boston Terriers. Pugs are the quintessential lapdogs—calm, low-key couch potatoes content to relax and cuddle the day away. They are amiable, playful, and loving, but not particularly active or athletic. Bostons, in contrast, still retain some of that lively terrier spirit and tend to be more energetic, curious, and always on the go.

That‘s not to say that Boston Terriers are hyper or more than most people can handle—they are still well-suited for apartment living and less active households given their size. You‘ll just need to provide your Boston with a bit more exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation to keep them happy than you would a lazier Pug. Bostons also tend to be a bit more alert and barky than Pugs when it comes to guarding the home, though neither make very effective watchdogs.

Both breeds tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and even cats when raised together, though the more rambunctious Boston may be better suited for homes with older kids that can handle their enthusiasm without getting knocked over. Bostons are also known for their goofy antics and sense of humor. And while Pugs and Boston Terriers alike adore their families, Pugs are often more attached to a single person and can be prone to separation anxiety, whereas easy-going Bostons are typically more adaptable.

Training and Intelligence

Trainability is another important area where Pugs and Boston Terriers differ. The Pug‘s laid-back, sometimes lazy attitude can make motivating them for training a challenge. They are very treat-driven, however, so having plenty of tasty rewards on hand is a must! Bostons are generally considered more trainable thanks to their keen intelligence and eagerness to please. Like many terriers, though, they can also have an independent, stubborn streak, so training requires patience and a firm but positive approach.

As with any dog, proper socialization from a young age is essential for both breeds to ensure they grow up to be confident, well-adjusted adult dogs. Puppy obedience classes are highly recommended not just for the training itself but for the invaluable socialization opportunities with all kinds of new people and dogs. Keeping training sessions short, fun, and upbeat will yield the best results with both Pugs and Boston Terriers.

Health Concerns

All purebred dogs are susceptible to certain genetic health problems, and flat-faced breeds like Pugs and Boston Terriers are particulary prone to issues related to their unique anatomy. With their extremely short muzzles, elongated soft palates, and narrow nostrils and windpipes, brachycephalic breeds often suffer from a condition called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) which can make breathing difficult.

Symptoms of BOAS include snorting, snoring, gagging, exercise intolerance, and collapsing. Obesity only makes these breathing problems worse, so it‘s crucial to keep brachys at a healthy weight. Flat-faced dogs are also at higher risk for eye issues like corneal ulcers and proptosis (eyes popping out of the socket) due to their shallow eye sockets and protruding eyes. They can also have trouble regulating their body temperature and are prone to overheating.

Besides these brachycephalic-related problems, each breed has its own set of other potential health concerns to be aware of:

Pugs

Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease (degeneration of the hip joints)
Pug Dog Encephalitis (fatal brain inflammation)
Epilepsy
Nerve degeneration
Allergies and skin issues
Dental disease

Boston Terriers

Patellar luxation (dislocating kneecaps)
Cataracts, glaucoma, and other eye disorders
Deafness
Megaesophagus (enlarged esophagus)
Cushing‘s disease
Heart murmurs
Allergies

Reputable breeders perform health screening on their breeding stock to help minimize the risk of passing on inherited disorders. So if you‘re set on getting a purebred puppy, be sure to choose a responsible breeder committed to breeding healthy dogs. Adopting an adult dog from a breed rescue is another great option, as many health conditions will have already become apparent.

Grooming and Care

In general, both Pugs and Boston Terriers are pretty low maintenance in the grooming department. Neither breed requires professional haircuts, and their short, smooth coats are easy to care for with basic brushing a few times a week and the occasional bath as needed.

However, the Pug‘s wrinkly face does require some extra attention. Those cute skin folds can trap dirt, moisture, and bacteria, so it‘s important to clean them regularly with a damp cloth or special wrinkle wipes to prevent irritation and infection. You may also need to wipe away tear stains if your Pug‘s protruding eyes are watery.

While Boston Terriers don‘t have the same facial wrinkle concerns, their upright ears are prone to collecting dirt and wax and should be checked and cleaned weekly. For both breeds, routine nail trims, dental care, and ear cleanings are also essential, just as for any other dog.

As mentioned, Pugs and Boston Terriers don‘t need a ton of exercise, but daily walks and playtime are still important for their physical and mental well-being. Aim for 30-60 minutes of moderate activity per day, broken up into a few shorter sessions. And take special precautions when exercising them in hot, humid weather to avoid heatstroke.

Which Breed is Right For You?

Pugs and Boston Terriers can both make wonderful companion dogs for a variety of households, as long as you‘re prepared to meet their needs. Pugs can be an excellent choice if you‘re looking for a low-key lapdog to be your devoted couch buddy and don‘t mind a bit of snoring. They can fit in well with singles, seniors, or families with respectful children. Pugs are also ideal for apartment dwellers or those who aren‘t able to give a dog a lot of exercise.

If you have a bit more active lifestyle and want a small dog with a fun-loving, slightly sportier personality to join in on the action, a Boston Terrier could be a better bet. As long as you can keep up with their moderate exercise needs and don‘t leave them alone for long periods, Bostons make delightful companions with their goofy, affectionate natures. They tend to be a bit more adaptable and outgoing than Pugs.

For both breeds, you‘ll need to be willing to put in the time for training and socialization, manage potential health issues (especially those related to their flat faces), and provide them with plenty of love and attention. In return, you‘ll be rewarded with a charming, loyal little dog that will bring joy and laughter to your life for many years to come.