Pug vs Puli

Toy · Small vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Puli is the larger breed at 25–35 lbs (males) vs 14–18 lbs for the Pug.
  • The Pug typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The Puli has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Puli sheds less.
  • The Puli is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitPugPuli
Group
ToyHerding
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
ChinaHungary
Height (male)
10–13"17"
Height (female)
10–13"16"
Weight (male)
14–18 lbs25–35 lbs
Weight (female)
14–18 lbs25–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–15 years10–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
Ad slot · compare-mid

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.

About the Puli

The Puli is a loyal, smart, energetic Hungarian sheepdog with corded dreadlock coat — agile and acrobatic. Originally from Hungary, this medium herding breed typically weighs 25–35 lbs and lives 10–15 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, smart, energetic.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Pug health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Obesity

Puli health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hearing problems