Labrador Retriever vs Pug Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Lab or Dutch Bulldog?

Compare the Labrador Retriever and Pug breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Lab or a Dutch Bulldog? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Labrador, Lab

Dutch Bulldog, Dutch Mastiff, Carlin, Mini Mastiff, Mops, Chinese Pug

Weight

What is the average weight of Labrador Retriever and Pug?

72.5 pounds ( 33 kg )

15.5 pounds ( 7 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Labrador Retriever and Pug

23.0 inches ( 58.4 cm )

11.5 inches ( 29.2 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Labrador Retriever or Pug?

The Labrador Retriever and Pug breeds are known for having a strong tendency to become overweight. It is important to find a balance between providing enough exercise and controlling their food intake. To maintain a healthy weight, it is recommended to increase the frequency and duration of daily walks and to engage in more playtime with them.

Hypoallergenic

Are Labrador Retrievers or Pugs hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Labrador Retriever nor Pug are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Labrador Retriever and Pug dogs?

Affectionate
Cheerful
Friendly
Intelligent
Loyal
Playful
Social
Alert
Energetic
Gentle
Loving
Going
Responsive

Affectionate
Courageous
Intelligent
Going
Loyal
Cheerful
Gentle
Friendly
Playful

Shedding Level

Do Labrador Retrievers shed more than Pugs, or which breed sheds more, Labrador Retrievers or Pugs?

Labrador Retrievers are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Pugs are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Labrador Retriever or Pug?

The Labrador Retriever and Pug dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, these breeds will alert their owner.

Origin

What is the origin of Labrador Retriever and Pug dog breeds?

Canada

China

Ancestry

What are the origins of Labrador Retriever and Pug breeds?

St. John's Water Dog

Pekingese, Bulldog, French Mastiff

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Labrador Retriever and Pug?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry

Date of Birth

When were Labrador Retriever and Pug breeds first developed?

1800s

Ancient Times

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Labrador Retriever and Pug?

Sporting (AKC:1917)
Gun Dog (UKC)

Toy (AKC:1885)
Companion breeds (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Labrador Retriever and Pug dogs?

Hazel
Brown
Amber

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Labrador Retriever and Pug?

Black
Brown

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Labrador Retriever and Pug breeds?

Black
Brown
Cream

Black
Fawn

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Labrador Retriever and Pug breeds?

Labrador Retrievers have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Pugs have short coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Labrador Retriever and Pug?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Labrador Retriever and Pug?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Labrador Retriever and Pug?

10-12 puppies per pregnancy

A Labrador Retriever can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

A Pug can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Labrador Retriever and Pugs are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Labrador Retriever and Pug, which breed is more prone to health problems?

While the Labrador Retriever breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

The Pug breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Labrador Retriever and Pug breeds?

Gastric Torsion
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Epilepsy
Osteochondritis Dissecans

Entropion
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Portosystemic Shunt
Pug Dog Encephalitis
Necrotizing Meningoencephalitis

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Labrador Retriever and Pug?

Otitis Externa
Cataract
Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Allergies
Corneal Ulcer

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Labrador Retriever and Pug breeds?

Eye
Hip
Elbow
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Ear Examination

Eye
Blood Test
Liver Ultrasound
X-Rays
CT Scan
Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Allergy Tests

Energy

How do the energy levels of Labrador Retrievers and Pugs compare?

Labrador Retrievers thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Pugs are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Labrador Retriever vs Pug social needs comparison

Labrador Retriever and Pug have very high social needs. These needs include regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Labrador Retriever vs Pug exercise need comparison.

Labrador Retrievers need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Pugs need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Labrador Retriever or Pug?

Labrador Retrievers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Pugs have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Labrador Retriever or Pug?

Labrador Retriever is an average drooler, monitor for excessive drooling which may indicate health issues.

Pug minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Labrador Retrievers or Pugs bark more/less frequently?

Labrador Retriever and Pugs tend to bark moderately, they bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or to communicate something. They may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Territorial

Is the Labrador Retriever or Pug a better guard dog?

While Labrador Retriever dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

Pug dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Labrador Retriever vs Pug?

Roaming urge

Labrador Retriever vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Labrador Retriever or Pug - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Labrador Retriever and Pug entertained?

Fetch, Tug-of-war, Chase, Dog Parks, Walk, Run, Play, Walking, Cuddling, Exploring, Sniffing, Petting, Running, Boat ride, Swim, Tracking, Chasing, Smelling, Going out, Walks, Frisbee, Road trip, Meeting people, Shake, Swimming, Playdate, Chew, Smell, Walki, Being pet

Go to Park, Walk, Eating Snacks, Nap, Playdate, Tug-of-war, Fetch, People watching, Sleeping, Walking, Petting, Sitting, Chase, Run, Barking, Running, Dog park, Very slow, Sniffing, Swim, Smell, Snacks, Explore, Walks, Pets, Jumping, Treats, Resting, Slow walking, Peanut butter

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Labrador Retrievers or Pugs?

High

Labrador Retrievers are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Medium

Pugs are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Labrador Retriever or Pug walk each week?

15 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Labrador Retriever, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

5 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Pug, it's at least 5 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Labrador Retrievers or Pugs require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most Labrador Retrievers usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

40 minutes

In general most Pugs usually need at least 40 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Labrador Retrievers or Pugs?

Labrador Retriever and Pug are breeds of dogs that do not require extensive grooming.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Labrador Retriever and Pug dogs?

Daily

Ideally, Labrador Retriever should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Weekly

Pug should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Labrador Retrievers and Pugs?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Labrador Retriever or Pug in cups?

2.5 cups

For an average 65-80 pound (29 - 36 kg) Labrador Retriever feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

1 cups

For an average 13-20 pound (6 - 9 kg) Pug feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Labrador Retriever or Pug?

$2.50 - $3.20 / day

The average cost of a Labrador Retriever is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.

$1.40 - $1.70 / day

The average cost of a Pug is somewhere $1.40 - $1.70 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Labrador Retriever or Pug?

$74 - $95 / month

The average per month expenses of a Labrador Retriever is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$35 - $50 / month

The average per month expenses of a Pug is between $35 - $50. This makes an average of $420 - $600 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Labrador Retrievers vs Pugs

Labrador Retriever is highly intelligent and very trainable.

Pug has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Labrador Retriever and Pug compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Pugs have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Labrador Retriever vs Pug?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Labrador Retriever or Pug?

Labrador Retrievers can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Pugs make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Labrador Retrievers or Pugs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Labrador Retrievers make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Pugs are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Labrador Retriever or Pug?

Cat Friendly

Do Labrador Retriever or Pug breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Labrador Retrievers are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Pugs are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Labrador Retriever or Pug?

Labrador Retrievers and Pugs are very friendly towards other dogs. This breed typically have a happy and affectionate temperament around dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Labrador Retriever or Pug dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Labrador Retriever or Pug?

Labrador Retriever and Pug are known to be very friendly around strangers.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Labrador Retriever and Pug?

Labrador Retrievers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Pugs have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Labrador Retrievers and Pugs compare?

The Labrador Retriever is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.

Pugs may require more time and patience to learn commands, but with consistency, they can be trained.