Pug vs Russell Terrier

Toy · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Pug is the larger breed at 14–18 lbs (males) vs 9–15 lbs for the Russell Terrier.
  • The Pug typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The Russell Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Russell Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitPugRussell Terrier
Group
ToyTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
ChinaEngland
Height (male)
10–13"10–12"
Height (female)
10–13"10–12"
Weight (male)
14–18 lbs9–15 lbs
Weight (female)
14–18 lbs9–15 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–15 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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 Russell Terrier

The Russell Terrier is a lively, alert, inquisitive English fox-bolter — shorter-legged cousin of Jack Russell, equally feisty. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 9–15 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as lively, alert, inquisitive.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Pug health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Obesity

Russell Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Deafness