Living
What is the energy level of Papillon vs Pug?
Papillons have a higher energy level (5/10), while Pugs are more relaxed (2/10).
Papillon vs Pug: Choosing the Right Small Dog for You
Deciding between a Papillon and a Pug? Both breeds are friendly and small, but they have different energy levels and care needs. Let's break down their differences to help you make the right choice! (Papillon vs Pug)
If you're considering adding a small dog to your family or apartment, you may be looking at the Papillon and Pug. These breeds are popular for their charming personalities and adaptability to smaller living spaces. You might be wondering about their energy levels, trainability, and overall fit for your lifestyle, especially if you have kids or other pets.
Quick verdict
Both the Papillon and Pug are great small breeds, but your choice should depend on your lifestyle and preferences.
Choose papillon if...
Choose the Papillon if you want a lively companion that enjoys playtime and is relatively easy to train, making it suitable for active families.
Choose pug if...
Opt for the Pug if you prefer a relaxed dog with a lower energy level, making them perfect for cuddly evenings in an apartment setting.
Head-to-head comparison
| Feature | papillon | pug | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy Level | High | Low | papillon |
| Shedding Level | Moderate | Moderate | Equal |
| Trainability | High | Moderate | papillon |
| Cost (Year 1) | $1,500 - $2,800 | $1,500 - $2,800 | Equal |
| Grooming Needs | Moderate | Moderate | Equal |
| Kid Friendly | Fairly Good | Fairly Good | Equal |
| Dog Friendly | Fairly Good | Fairly Good | Equal |
| Apartment Suitable | Moderate | Moderate | Equal |
Deep dive
Energy Level Comparison
When comparing Papillon vs Pug, energy levels differ significantly. The Papillon is known for its high energy, making it perfect for active individuals or families. In contrast, the Pug is more laid back, enjoying leisurely strolls and cuddle time, which is great for those who prefer a calmer pet.
Trainability Insights
Trainability is another area where the Papillon shines. Its intelligence and eagerness to please make it highly trainable. On the other hand, while Pugs are friendly, they can be a bit stubborn, which might require more patience during training sessions.
Family and Apartment Living
Both breeds are fairly good with kids and can adapt to apartment living. However, the Papillon's energetic nature might be challenging if you have a quiet household. Pugs, with their relaxed demeanor, can be a better fit for families looking for a low-energy companion.
Who wins for apartments
When it comes to apartment living, both the Papillon and the Pug can adapt well. They are small and have moderate exercise needs, making them suitable for smaller spaces. However, the Papillon may bring a little more energy into a confined area, which could lead to more excitement and noise. So, if you prefer a quieter companion, the Pug takes the win for apartment living.
Who wins for families with kids
Families with kids often need a dog that’s both friendly and tolerant. Both the Papillon and Pug score well in kid-friendliness, but the Pug's laid-back personality makes it a bit easier to handle young children. Papillons, while friendly, can be more energetic and may not always appreciate the rough play. Therefore, the Pug wins for families with kids due to its calm demeanor.
Who wins for first-time owners
First-time dog owners often seek a breed that is easy to train and manage. The Papillon has a higher trainability score, which can be beneficial for new owners eager to teach commands. However, the Pug's easygoing nature can make it simpler to care for in everyday life. In this case, the Papillon wins, offering a more trainable and engaging experience for first-time owners.
Who wins for costs
Both breeds have similar cost structures, with initial yearly costs ranging from $1,500 to $2,800. Their monthly costs also align closely, at about $100 to $200. However, considering potential health issues, Pugs can be prone to more significant health problems due to their brachycephalic nature. This leads to higher vet bills over time. Thus, the Papillon wins for costs, as they may incur fewer long-term health expenses.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Papillon or Pug?
Choosing between a Papillon and a Pug depends on your lifestyle. If you want a lively, trainable dog, a Papillon might be a better fit. However, if you prefer a more laid-back companion, the Pug's calm demeanor could be ideal. This answer relates to Papillon vs Pug.
Is Papillon more expensive than Pug?
Both the Papillon and Pug have similar ownership costs, averaging between $100 and $200 per month. Initial expenses, such as adoption and medical care, can also be comparable, so neither breed stands out as significantly more expensive.
How do Papillon and Pug energy levels compare?
Papillons have a higher energy level (5/10) compared to Pugs, who rank lower at 2/10. If you enjoy active playtime and outdoor adventures, a Papillon may be more suited to your lifestyle.
Are Papillons and Pugs good for families?
Both breeds are generally kid-friendly, scoring 4/5 in this area. They are loyal companions, making them suitable for families looking for a small dog that gets along well with children.
How do their grooming needs differ?
Both the Papillon and Pug have moderate grooming needs. However, the Papillon may require slightly more attention due to its varied coat types, while Pugs have shorter coats that are easier to maintain.
Can Papillons and Pugs live in apartments?
Both breeds are suitable for apartment living, scoring 3/5 for adaptability. However, Papillons may need more exercise and mental stimulation than Pugs, who are more content with a relaxed lifestyle.
What are the common health issues for Papillons and Pugs?
Both breeds share similar common health issues like hip dysplasia, ear infections, and allergies. Regular vet check-ups can help manage these conditions effectively.
How trainable are Papillons compared to Pugs?
Papillons are more trainable, scoring a 5/5, while Pugs rank a 3/5. If you're a first-time dog owner or want to engage in training activities, a Papillon may suit you better.
Quick answers
View more answersLiving
How much do Papillons shed compared to Pugs?
Both breeds have a moderate shedding level, making them manageable for most households.
Costs
Are Papillons expensive to care for?
Papillons generally have similar costs to Pugs, averaging $100 to $200 per month.
Training
Do Papillons require more training than Pugs?
Yes, Papillons are more trainable than Pugs, making them ideal for active owners.
Related DogBreedCompass guides
- Papillon breed guide – Learn more about the Papillon breed's characteristics.
- Pug breed guide – Explore the traits of Pugs in detail.
- Papillon cost breakdown – Understand the costs associated with owning a Papillon.
- Training tips for Pugs – Get tips on training Pugs effectively.
- Common health issues in small dog breeds – Find out about common health issues for small breeds.
Important reminder
This guide is not medical advice. If your dog shows pain, sudden behavior change, or worsening symptoms, consult a licensed veterinarian.
Some links may be affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only suggest products we believe are helpful for dog owners.
Find Your Perfect Breed
Match your lifestyle to the right dog.
Take quizFind your match
Not sure which breed is right for you? Take our 2-minute quiz to find out.
Take the quiz