Which Is Right for You: Boston Terrier or Pug?

Boston Terriers and Pugs may look alike — similar size, short noses, and affectionate nature — but they’re actually very different breeds. Colors, body structures, origins, and even personalities set these dogs apart. Below, we break down the similarities and differences between Bostons and Pugs to help you figure out which one fits your lifestyle best.

Both small dogs are usually great with kids and other dogs, but before you decide, you’ll want to be aware of the differences in behavior, temperaments, and health concerns.

TL;DR: Boston Terriers and Pugs are both small, affectionate companion breeds, but Boston Terriers are more athletic, energetic, and trainable while Pugs are calmer, more laid-back, and more prone to severe breathing problems due to their extremely flat faces. Boston Terriers are more active playmates and handle heat better, whereas Pugs are more content as lap dogs, struggle significantly in warm weather, and require monitoring for respiratory distress.

Boston Terrier vs. Pug: Breed origins and history

While these two small dogs share many similarities, their origins couldn’t be more different.

The Pug is a very old breed with origins tracing back about 2,000 years. The breed was originally developed in China where it was a royal companion of emperors and other high-ranking officials. Eventually, they found their way outside China and captured the hearts of dog enthusiasts.

Boston Terriers, on the other hand, are a much newer breed having been developed in the late 19th century. Bostons, like Pugs, were developed as companion dogs but are an all-American breed, with their origins in Boston, Massachusetts. These small dogs are sometimes mistaken for another breed, the larger French Bulldog.

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Boston Terrier vs. Pug: Physical differences

The main confusion between Pugs and Boston Terriers stems from their similar sizes and builds. Both are brachycephalic breeds with short snouts, which contributes to the breed mix-up. But once you know what to look for, it’s easy to spot the differences between the two.

Comparing the Boston Terrier and the Pug’s size and build

Described as compact, Boston Terriers can grow to weigh up to 25 pounds but some smaller blends stay under 15 pounds. They are sturdy companion dogs who have short bodies, strong legs, slender necks, and are not too thin or chunky. The Boston’s overall shape is considered square thanks to the length of their legs. They have short, sometimes corkscrew-shaped tails. Most Boston Terriers grow to be about 10 to 12 inches tall, but some can grow to be up to 17 inches.

Like the Boston Terrier, Pugs can also be described as compact and square but they tend to be a little more stocky or stout. While these toy dogs only weigh up to 18 pounds, obesity is unfortunately much more common in the breed. These short dogs have thick necks, and their tails curl up and over the hip. Pugs only grow to be about 10 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder.

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Ear shape

Boston Terriers have small, erect, triangular ears. When they are puppies, it’s common for their ears to be floppy but as they grow, their ears should stand tall at the corners of the top of their head. Pugs have small, floppy ears that are known for their soft texture throughout their lives.

Head shape

A Pug’s head can be described as large and round with big eyes. They also have deep, wide wrinkles across their faces and very short muzzles, which classify them as a brachycephalic breed. A Pug’s big head, smushed face, and face folds are their most identifiable and endearing features despite also causing some of their more problematic health concerns.

The Boston Terrier’s head is more square with no wrinkles. While their snout isn’t very long, Boston Terriers do have a more pronounced muzzle than a Pug. Still, they are classified as brachycephalic because of their shorter muzzles. Some Bostons will have big and bulbous eyes like a Pug, but they usually bulge just a little less due to the shape of their head.

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Coat colors

If you see a small black-and-white dog with erect ears, it’s most likely a Boston Terrier or a French Bulldog, not a Pug. Most Boston Terriers have a classic black-and-white two-toned coat, sometimes called a tuxedo, but the breed standard also accepts seal and brindle color variations with white. Many fawn Pugs have black muzzles, but they also come in solid fawn or black color.

Boston Terrier vs. Pug: Temperament and personality differences

Both breeds are happy companion dogs. Below you’ll find some of the similarities and differences between Bostons and Pugs in terms of general temperament.

Playful and loving

Eager to please, Boston Terriers are athletic, alert, and active. When appropriately socialized as puppies, they are always ready to play with people or other pets, or to go for a walk. On the other hand, Pugs are a little more relaxed, sometimes stubborn, and always ready to follow their nose — especially if food is involved. Pugs are comical, loving dogs who are highly food-motivated, trainable, and playful. 

Easy-going

Bostons and Pugs are popular family dogs who don’t drool or bark too much and overall make great house pets for city or suburban life. But if you’re looking for a more relaxed couch buddy, Pugs are your best bet. Due to their brachycephalic features, many Pugs have an intolerance to extreme heat and exercise, so if you’re in a hot and humid environment, they may need to spend most of their time in air conditioning.

Athleticism

Athleticism is not a word you’ll often see associated with a Pug, but Boston Terriers are very energetic and ready to learn so they can be quite the athletes. Pugs, on the other hand, are a little less energetic and can have more difficulties breathing because of their flatter faces.

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Boston Terrier vs. Pug: Health differences

Smushed faces and wrinkles make Pug health issues common but that doesn’t mean Boston Terrier health issues don’t also exist. Eye and respiratory issues are well-known problems for both Pugs and Boston Terriers, and on top of that, both breeds may experience other health concerns. It’s important for new pet parents to be aware of potential health issues their dog may be prone to developing and prepare for the associated veterinary costs.

Eye problems

Due to the shape of their skulls, both Pugs and Boston Terriers have eyes that tend to stick out a bit so they have a high risk of eye injuries. Boston Terriers are also prone to developing eye diseases such as painful corneal ulcers, cataracts, and glaucoma, while Pugs are more likely to develop dry eye and corneal ulcers. Both breeds are sometimes called ‘bug-eyed’ because of how their eyes protrude.

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome

Dogs with flat faces or smushed faces are at risk for a respiratory syndrome called brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). Due to their unique anatomy, both Pugs and Boston Terriers can be affected by BOAS but Pugs are at a higher risk for it. Narrow nostrils, an elongated soft palate, and changes in the throat can cause snoring, wheezing, difficulty breathing, an intolerance to exercise, and collapse as part of BOAS.

Spinal issues

Unfortunately, Boston Terrier and Pug breed health issues aren’t limited to the eyes and respiratory system. Back issues, such as compressed discs and hemivertebrae, can be seen in both breeds and can result in serious problems that cause weakness and difficulty using their hind legs. 

Constrictive myelopathy is a disease often associated with Pugs while both Boston Terriers and Pugs are well known for having a screw tail, an issue caused by a spinal condition called a hemivertebra.

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Weight challenges

Any dog who loves food and doesn’t get very much exercise is prone to obesity, but Pugs in particular have weight challenges. Pugs aren’t good at limiting their food intake and their food-oriented nature, combined with their exercise intolerance, often results in an overweight dog. 

Pet parents should carefully monitor their Pug’s food intake, especially if they have been diagnosed with BOAS. Boston Terriers can also overeat but they are naturally more active than Pugs so obesity is usually less of a challenge for them.

Commonly asked questions

Do Pugs shed more than Boston Terriers?

Yes, Pugs tend to shed much more than Boston Terriers. While both breeds have short hair, Pugs leave more hair lying around. Their fur is slightly longer and denser than Boston Terrier fur but neither has long hair or a double coat. Regular brushing is helpful to keep shedding to a minimum.

Are Boston Terriers difficult dogs?

No, Boston Terriers are typically easy dogs to care for. They require little grooming, don’t take up much space, and are usually great with families and other dogs. Their energy levels will vary from dog to dog though so some will require more playtime, walks and mental stimulation than others but they are typically very trainable.

References

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“Pug Dog Breed - Facts and Personality Traits | Hill’s Pet.” Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Publisher, 19 Nov. 2018, www.hillspet.com/dog-care/dog-breeds/pug. 

“Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS).” Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, 2025, www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-topics/brachycephalic-obstructive-airway-syndrome-boas. 

Tomlinson, Francesca, et al. “BOAS in the Boston Terrier: A Healthier Screw-Tailed Breed?” PLoS ONE, vol. 19, no. 12, 31 Dec. 2024, pp. e0315411–e0315411, https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0315411. 

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