Keeshond vs Pug

Non-Sporting · Medium vs Toy · Small

Quick take
  • Keeshond is the larger breed at 35–45 lbs (males) vs 14–18 lbs for the Pug.
  • The Pug typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The Keeshond has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Pug sheds less.
  • The Keeshond is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitKeeshondPug
Group
Non-SportingToy
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
NetherlandsChina
Height (male)
18"10–13"
Height (female)
17"10–13"
Weight (male)
35–45 lbs14–18 lbs
Weight (female)
35–45 lbs14–18 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years13–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Keeshond

The Keeshond is a friendly, lively, outgoing Dutch barge dog — Holland's national dog with a fluffy 'spectacles' face. Originally from Netherlands, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 35–45 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, lively, outgoing.

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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Keeshond health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart issues
  • Epilepsy

Pug health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Obesity