Miniature Poodle vs Pug

Non-Sporting · Small vs Toy · Small

Quick take
  • Pug is the larger breed at 14–18 lbs (males) vs 10–15 lbs for the Miniature Poodle.
  • The Miniature Poodle has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Miniature Poodle sheds less.
  • The Miniature Poodle is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitMiniature PoodlePug
Group
Non-SportingToy
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
GermanyChina
Height (male)
11–15"10–13"
Height (female)
11–15"10–13"
Weight (male)
10–15 lbs14–18 lbs
Weight (female)
10–15 lbs14–18 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–18 years13–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)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.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Miniature Poodle

The Miniature Poodle is an active, proud, very smart smaller version of the Standard Poodle — circus star of yesteryear. Originally from Germany, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 10–15 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as active, proud, very smart.

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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Miniature Poodle health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Epilepsy
  • Legg-Calve-Perthes

Pug health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Obesity