Pug vs Dachshund (A Comprehensive Breeds Comparison)

Pug vs Dachshund (Complete Breeds Comparison)

Some dog lovers already have choices when it comes to their favorite breeds of dogs. However, it is often difficult for them to choose one. Pugs vs Dachshunds is a question often asked by breed lovers. Therefore, I have stated some major differences between these breeds to simplify the selection process.

Pugs are small, tough dogs with wrinkled faces and curly tails. They have a fascinating history, tracing back to the Shang dynasty in China. People love them for being affectionate. They are like dog qualities packed into a small body. In addition, pugs enjoy love and give it back generously.

Dachshunds have an elongated body, short legs, and a charming temperament. Fondly nicknamed the "wiener dog," they trace their roots to Germany. Despite their small size, Dachshunds are known for their courage mixed with stubbornness. Their unique appearance and friendly personality have endeared them to many.

In this article, we'll compare the temperaments, physical characteristics, and suitability of various households for these two breeds. If you love dogs or are just curious about them, this exploration of Pugs and Dachshunds is for you.

Origin and History

A Pug boasts a lengthy history, reaching as far back as 400 B.C. when it emerged in China. Initially bred as companions for the wealthy, these dogs held high value in the eyes of Chinese emperors. These royal canines lived in opulence and were safeguarded by soldiers. Tibetan Buddhist monks also kept Pugs in their monasteries. The breed's popularity extended beyond China, reaching Japan, Russia, and eventually Europe, where they found favor in royal palaces and upper-class households. With their petite size, robust build, and low exercise needs, Pugs became ideal household pets.

Dachshunds were developed by German breeders, blending elements of German, French, and English hounds and terriers. These dogs were specifically developed for tracking, chasing, and flushing out badgers and other burrow-dwelling animals. The name "Dachshund" translates to "badger dog" in German, symbolizing the breed's purpose. The Dachshund has been a longstanding symbol of Germany. References to the breed can be traced back to the 15th century. Introduced to the U.S. as early as 1885, it gained recognition from the American Kennel Club (AKC) in the same year. The Dachshund is available in two sizes: standard and miniature, with the standard size being the original.

Physical Characteristics

Pugs:

Known for their small, square-shaped bodies, Pugs stand around 10 to 14 inches tall and weigh between 13 to 20 pounds. Their short, shiny coats come in fawn, apricot fawn, silver fawn, or black colors. A standout feature of Pugs is their distinct wrinkled face, with prominent eyes, naturally floppy ears, and an undershot jaw where the lower teeth slightly extend beyond the upper ones. Additionally, they sport a characteristic curled tail.

Dachshunds:

Dachshunds are renowned for their elongated, slim appearance and come in two sizes: standard and miniature. Standard Dachshunds typically reach 8 to 11 inches in height and weigh 16 to 32 pounds, while miniature Dachshunds stand 5 to 7 inches tall and weigh around 12 pounds. Their unique body shape, with a long back and short legs, was specifically bred for their original purpose of hunting badgers by enabling them to delve into burrows. Dachshunds also feature long snouts, ears close to the head with a moderate length, and come in three coat types: smooth, wire, and long-coated, with a variety of colors and patterns.

Temperament and Personality

Pug Temperament and Personality:

Pugs are celebrated for their well-balanced temperament, charming demeanor, and affectionate, outgoing nature. Their intelligence, playfulness, and high level of affection make them delightful companions. Social by nature, Pugs usually get along well with other dogs and animals. Their playful energy and affectionate disposition make them particularly suitable as companions for children. However, Pugs can display a mischievous side, especially when left alone for extended periods. Additionally, they are known for being protective of their family and home.

Dachshund Temperament and Personality:

Dachshunds are recognized for their affectionate relationships within the family and are often described as independent, brave, and loyal. Their bright and courageous nature, coupled with a playful temperament, makes them engaging pets. Dachshunds generally form strong bonds with children, displaying companionship within the family dynamic. While individual temperament can vary, Dachshunds are commonly acknowledged as adept watchdogs.

Interaction with Families, Children, and Other Pets:

Pugs are considered excellent companions for children due to their playful and affectionate traits. They exhibit patience and gentleness with kids, gracefully tolerating their playful behaviors. Supervision during interactions with young children is crucial, and educating children about respecting the Pug's boundaries is important. Pugs generally harmonize well with other dogs and animals, fostering positive relationships through proper introductions.

Dachshunds can also be good with children, contingent on individual temperament, and early socialization plays a pivotal role in their integration into family life. Their loyalty and affectionate nature position them as potential devoted family pets, especially for households with children. Overall, both Pugs and Dachshunds bring unique qualities that make them wonderful additions to family settings.

Trainability and Intelligence

Pug Intelligence and Trainability:

Pugs stand out for their high adaptive intelligence, excelling in understanding human emotions and effectively communicating with their owners. While they swiftly grasp basic obedience commands, a hint of stubbornness may emerge during training sessions. Nevertheless, Pugs shine in emotional intelligence and adaptability, showcasing problem-solving skills with a brain size that surprises given their compact bodies. In Stanley Coren's Dog Intelligence Ranking, Pugs are placed 57th, labeled as having "below average" intelligence. Yet, individual strengths, such as emotional intelligence and adaptability, should be considered in assessing their cleverness.

Dachshund Intelligence and Trainability:

Dachshunds have average intelligence and obedience, holding the 92nd spot out of 138 dog breeds in Coren's study. Their prowess lies in being clever problem solvers and independent thinkers, excelling in instinctive and adaptive intelligence. Despite their intellect, Dachshunds can be stubborn, adhering to their own will. While training them can pose challenges, consistency, and positive reinforcement enable them to grasp various behaviors and commands.

Barking Tendencies:

Dachshunds outpace Pugs, known for their frequent barks attributed to strong territorial instincts and alertness. Pugs are considered average barkers, offering occasional vocalizations.

Health Concerns

Pug Health Concerns:

Pugs, being brachycephalic, have short muzzles and flat faces, making them prone to Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). This condition can result in breathing difficulties due to anatomical features like narrowed nostrils, an elongated soft palate, an enlarged tongue, and a reduced windpipe size. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary, especially during hot or humid conditions. Dental problems are also common among Pugs, as their small jaws can lead to tooth overcrowding, increasing the risk of periodontal disease. Regular dental care, including daily teeth brushing, is essential to prevent pain and potential tooth loss.

Dachshund Health Concerns:

Dachshunds are particularly susceptible to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), a condition affecting the spinal discs between vertebrae. IVDD can cause disc bulging or bursting, resulting in pain, nerve damage, loss of bladder and bowel control, and even paralysis. This disease is more prevalent in Dachshunds compared to other breeds, with estimates indicating that 19 to 24 percent of Dachshunds may experience it during their lives. Ongoing research aims to enhance recovery methods and comprehend the genetic factors contributing to IVDD, with the ultimate goal of reducing its incidence in Dachshunds.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of Pugs and Dachshunds shows similarities, though individual factors play a crucial role. Pugs typically live between 10 and 15 years, with many sources indicating an average of 13-15 years. However, variations exist, with some sources suggesting a range of 10-14 years or even 7+ years. It's important to acknowledge that a Pug's lifespan is significantly influenced by factors such as health, care, and genetics.

Dachshunds generally boast an average lifespan of 12-15 years. Various sources propose ranges like 12-14 years or 12-16 years. As with Pugs, individual health, care practices, and genetic factors significantly contribute to determining a Dachshund's lifespan.

Both breeds are susceptible to specific health concerns that may impact their longevity. Pugs, for instance, are prone to respiratory issues and certain types of cancers. In contrast, Dachshunds may encounter dental problems and face susceptibility to various health disorders.

Care and Maintenance

Pugs:

Pugs have a short, smooth, and shiny coat that is relatively low-maintenance but sheds. To manage shedding and ensure a healthy coat, it's advisable to brush them weekly using a medium-bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt, or a similar tool. Pugs are recognized for their charming skin folds, requiring regular cleaning to prevent infections. Despite their short hair, Pugs shed quite a bit, necessitating consistent grooming to manage hair loss.

Dachshunds:

Dachshunds exhibit three coat variations: smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired, each with distinct grooming needs. Smooth-coated Dachshunds may benefit from weekly brushing, while long-haired counterparts require daily attention to prevent tangling or matting. Wire-haired Dachshunds, with their unique coat, may need hand-stripping, a task often best handled by professional groomers. Regardless of coat type, Dachshunds' ears should undergo regular inspections for infection, requiring weekly cleaning, and their nails should be trimmed every 4-6 weeks to prevent discomfort.

Exercise Needs of Pugs and Dachshunds

Pugs:

Despite their small size, Pugs possess surprising energy levels and need regular exercise for their overall well-being. Daily activities are essential to manage their weight and maintain healthy joints. Preferred exercises for Pugs include low-impact options like short walks, gentle indoor play, and moderate-paced fetching games. Given their short muzzles, extensive activities, especially in hot or humid conditions, should be avoided to prevent breathing difficulties. Generally, around 30 minutes of exercise each day is sufficient, and it can be divided into shorter sessions to prevent overexertion.

Dachshunds:

Dachshunds, bred for stamina and endurance, are energetic dogs with unique exercise needs due to their short legs and long backs. An adult Dachshund typically requires at least 30 minutes to one hour of daily exercise, spread across multiple sessions to prevent over-exertion and safeguard their sensitive spines. While regular exercise is crucial for weight management, it's important to strike a balance, as over-exercising can negatively impact a Dachshund's health. Recognizing signs of fatigue and understanding that Dachshunds may not always know when to stop emphasize the need for well-paced exercise routines to prevent exhaustion and injuries.

Conclusion

Pugs and Dachshunds, both beloved small breeds, boast distinct characteristics and histories. Originating from China, Pugs are cherished for their playful nature, compact size, and unique wrinkled face. Heavier and taller than Dachshunds, they exhibit adaptability and emotional intelligence. However, their brachycephalic traits make them susceptible to health challenges such as BOAS and dental issues. 

Dachshunds, originating in Germany, are known for their elongated bodies, short legs, bravery, and loyalty. Clever problem solvers with independent thinking, their training can be a challenge due to their stubborn streak. Prone to IVDD, a condition impacting their quality of life, Dachshunds share a similar lifespan with Pugs, typically living into their early to mid-teens. 

Regular exercise and varying grooming needs based on coat type are essential for both breeds. Choosing between a Pug and a Dachshund hinges on lifestyle and preferences. If seeking a friendly, adaptable companion with emotional intelligence, a Pug may be ideal. 

For those valuing bravery, loyalty, and independent thinking, a Dachshund might be the preferred choice. Regardless, being aware of their health concerns and providing proper care ensures a happy and healthy life for either breed.