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Breed comparison

Boston Terrier vs. Pug

Side-by-side comparison to help you decide which breed fits your lifestyle.

Size
small (10-25 lbs)
small (14-18 lbs)
Life expectancy
11-13 yrs
13-15 yrs
Activity
moderate
low
Grooming
low
moderate
Coat
short
short
Temperament
friendly, bright, amusing, lively
charming, mischievous, loving, stubborn
First-year cost
$2,260-$5,000
$2,360-$5,580
Ongoing annual
$1,620-$3,590
$1,720-$4,170

Health comparison

Shared concerns

brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)patellar luxation

Boston Terrier specific

cherry eyedeafnesscataractsheart murmurallergies

Pug specific

pug dog encephalitiseye injuries (proptosis)obesityskin fold dermatitiship dysplasia

Cost comparison

Boston Terrier

$2,260-$5,000year one

Food: $900-$1,500

Vet: $720-$1,550

Grooming: $0-$120

Gear: $240-$360

Pug

$2,360-$5,580year one

Food: $900-$1,500

Vet: $720-$1,550

Grooming: $100-$400

Gear: $240-$360

Which breed is right for you?

Consider a Boston Terrier if:

  • You want a calmer, lower-energy companion
  • You live in an apartment or smaller home
  • You prefer minimal grooming commitment

Consider a Pug if:

  • You want a calmer, lower-energy companion
  • You live in an apartment or smaller home
  • You want a longer-lived breed (13-15 yrs)

Common symptoms to watch

Full guide

Boston Terrier

Food, supplements, gear, training

Full guide

Pug

Food, supplements, gear, training