Pug vs Swedish Vallhund

Toy · Small vs Herding · Small

Quick take
  • Swedish Vallhund is the larger breed at 20–35 lbs (males) vs 14–18 lbs for the Pug.
  • The Pug typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The Swedish Vallhund has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Swedish Vallhund is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitPugSwedish Vallhund
Group
ToyHerding
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
ChinaSweden
Height (male)
10–13"12.5–13.75"
Height (female)
10–13"11.5–12.75"
Weight (male)
14–18 lbs20–35 lbs
Weight (female)
14–18 lbs20–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–15 years12–15 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)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
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)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
shortmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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 Swedish Vallhund

The Swedish Vallhund is a friendly, energetic, watchful Viking Spitz — Sweden's 'Wolf Dog of the Vikings', resembles a Corgi. Originally from Sweden, this small herding breed typically weighs 20–35 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, energetic, watchful.

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Pug health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Obesity

Swedish Vallhund health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders