Pug vs Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Toy · Small vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is the larger breed at 35–40 lbs (males) vs 14–18 lbs for the Pug.
  • The Pug typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier sheds less.
  • The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitPugSoft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Group
ToyTerrier
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
ChinaIreland
Height (male)
10–13"18–19"
Height (female)
10–13"17–18"
Weight (male)
14–18 lbs35–40 lbs
Weight (female)
14–18 lbs30–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–15 years12–14 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)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a happy, steady, self-confident Irish farm dog with a wheat-colored silky coat — the friendliest terrier. Originally from Ireland, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 35–40 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as happy, steady, self-confident.

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Pug health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Obesity

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Renal dysplasia
  • Protein-losing diseases
  • Addison's disease