Jack Russell Terrier vs Pug

Terrier · Small vs Toy · Small

Quick take
  • Pug is the larger breed at 14–18 lbs (males) vs 13–17 lbs for the Jack Russell Terrier.
  • The Jack Russell Terrier typically lives longer (13–18 years).
  • The Jack Russell Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Jack Russell Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitJack Russell TerrierPug
Group
TerrierToy
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
EnglandChina
Height (male)
10–15"10–13"
Height (female)
10–15"10–13"
Weight (male)
13–17 lbs14–18 lbs
Weight (female)
13–17 lbs14–18 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–18 years13–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier is a fearless, vocal, athletic small fox terrier — Eddie from Frasier, ten pounds of pure energy. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–17 lbs and lives 13–18 years. Breeders describe them as fearless, vocal, athletic.

About the Pug

The Pug is a charming, mischievous, loving wrinkly clown — Chinese imperial lapdog motto: multum in parvo. Originally from China, this small toy breed typically weighs 14–18 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as charming, mischievous, loving.

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Jack Russell Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Deafness

Pug health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Obesity