Pugs are recognized as the clowns in the canine world. This makes male and female Pugs great companions. Although both can make great buddies, they also have distinct personality traits.
Knowing these dissimilarities will help you choose which one would best fit you. Do you want a male or a female Pug? This question is an important part of getting a new puppy. Above all, it’s not the sex that only matters, but also about you and your home setting.
Should you buy a female or a male Pug? If you want a Pug that is not too clingy yet still affectionate, a female Pug is what you need. At an early age, you can trust her alone and train her basic obedient signals. If you want a Pug that is more playful, quick, and sociable, you may want to get a male Pug. They never fail to be a buddy whenever you need one.
This article deals with the distinction between the two sexes. There is a lot that you need to know on this topic and I just want you to be very aware of the different traits between a male and a female Pug.
So, let’s get started and discern what makes male and female Pugs supreme in their different ways.
Male Pugs
Overview
Height: 12 – 14 inches (30 – 36 cm)
Weight: 13 – 20 lbs (6 – 9 kg)
Puppy Price: $500 – $2,000
Lifespan: 12 – 15 Years
Build: Larger built with more muscle mass.
Temperament
Charming, mischievous, and loving.
Loves to please his owner.
Slightly more food motivated.
Likes being babied.
More playful and energetic throughout life.
Reaches physical maturity quicker.
Reaches mental maturity slower
More aggressive.
Tends to protect a territory or whole family.
Tends to be a bit messier.
More attention seeking.
Clingy most of the time.
Easily get distracted and harder to train.
Harder to train him to walk off leash and stay close to you.
Clumsy around kids.
Gets along well with female dogs.
Less likely to get along with other dogs or animals.
Less suspicious of strangers.
More likely to bond with all family members.
Easier to socialize with people.
More maintenance required.
Female Pugs
Overview
Height: 10 – 12 inches (25 – 30 cm)
Weight: 13 – 18 lbs (6 – 8 kg)
Puppy Price: $500 – $2,000
Lifespan: 12 – 15 Years
Build: Smaller built with less muscle mass.
Temperament
Charming, mischievous, and loving.
Slightly less desire to please her owner.
Slightly less food motivated (except when pregnant).
More independent.
Tends to be less playful all the time.
Reaches physical maturity slower.
Reaches mental maturity quicker.
Less aggressive.
Tends to protect an individual (her owner).
Tends to be cleaner.
Less attention seeking.
Respects your time alone.
More focused and easier to train.
Easier to train her to walk off leash and stay close to you.
More cautious around kids.
Gets along well with male dogs.
More likely to get along with other dogs or animals.
More suspicious of strangers.
Tends to bond with one person in the family.
A bit harder to socialize with people.
Less maintenance required.
Physical Differences
Males
Although male and female Pugs look very close at first glance, you can still spot their physical differences. Male Pugs have bulkier builds and typically grow to a height of about 12-14 inches and weigh between 13-20 pounds. Basically, male Pugs are larger than females because of their body mass. Overall, they acquire stronger poise and physique.
Females
As we all know, female Pugs have less weight and height compared to the male Pugs. This makes them smaller in size than their male counterparts. Female Pugs will be a bit narrower and will generally weigh a bit less than male Pugs. Female Pugs are about 10-12 inches in height. A healthy female Pug should weigh around 13-18 pounds.
Temperamental Differences
Males
Male Pugs seem to be more active than female Pugs. Though they mature slower, they are more likely to adjust easier in a new environment and tend to be more amicable towards other people or animals.
Training them in their earlier years is a bit more challenging than their female counterparts because aside from them mature slower, they are also more likely to be distracted when in training. Unlike females, males are less serious and intense, making them totally uninterested at times.
Males are more laid back than female Pugs, which makes them fun to play with. They are more likely to play with kids since they see kids as friends. Male Pugs love to bond with people in the household, seeing them too as friends.
Generally, Pugs are moody; they have this habit that they tend to become distant. Worry not; they will get back to being friendly if you give them space for a while.
TIP: Avoid Pugs from surfaces that they can reach, especially on areas where there are several small objects that can harm them. It can lead them to accidents like swallowing small objects, toxic substances, or poisonous things. Proofing the house is necessary regardless of how old your Pug is. John Carter – BubblyPet.com
Choosing a male Pug also requires the use of dog accessories that do not hinder breathing. Through this, every time a Pug is on a bridle, you are also required to attach a harness on his body. Harnesses transfer strain around the arms, back, and chest, keeping the neck loose.
Truth be told, all Pugs are amazing. Male Pugs are certainly great around kids. They are also suitable for house setting. If your child wants a playmate, a male Pug can do that task. You will never regret getting a male Pug if you badly want a pet and at the same time, a best friend.
Females
The motherly instinct of a female Pug will always show when they sense danger. Their loyalty prevails every time they see you with strange people or when they get to meet new animals.
They may seem cunning from the outside but they are intimidating to look at as if they are judging you! They do not easily trust people that they are not acquainted with. But behind all these lies a very loving and affectionate trait.
Several Pug owners say that female Pugs are more likely to demand attention. They are sometimes clingy to their owners but it will just depend on their mood. They love to lie on your lap and will make signals asking you to pet them. Indeed, female Pugs are charming and lovable even if they are sometimes aloof.
Females mature quicker than male Pugs, and this makes them easier to instruct. You do not have to worry when you start training a female Pug because they are known to be smarter than their male counterparts.
They have higher instincts and some say this is the reason why they mature quicker. Females are too independent to the point that they clean their own mess.
Female Pugs are also less sociable and more intense than males. They are less sociable in the sense that they do not want you near them unless they see you as buddies. They do not like to play with others, especially their fellow female animals.
They are also more intense than males because they are more serious and only like to play around depending on the situation. Other than that, female Pugs like to sleep a lot!
Trainability
Males
As we all know, males are easier to distract because they love to play instead of following basic rules. They get messier around other animals because all they think is that every time is playtime.
When you start training them, they will be more likely to lose focus after an hour of teaching them. They will only learn to calm down when they reach the age of two. They will become keener on observing their surroundings.
Male Pugs may be less focused on training, but they are active and love to please their owners. They may be stubborn at times, but they will be more than willing to do their task if you keep commending them. Being appreciative of your pets is one of the ways to nurture your Pugs into better companions.
Do not take off the leash when you are training your Pugs outside the home. Chances are, they may see other animals that they think they could play with, and all your patience will go to waste. Also, not taking the leash will make them get used to it, and they will be more guarded wherever they may go.
Above all these, you must understand that Pugs are not highly recommended for training. Pugs are solely for companionship.
Although male Pugs have bulkier body mass than female Pugs, Pugs are not the best fit for heavy training like all day running, jumping, and exercising vigorously. Male Pugs only need consistent yet light training. You can have either basic obedient training or train them with motivation.
Females
Because female Pugs are smarter, they tend to be more focused on training. But as I have said, Pugs are not for heavy work. However, if you religiously put them in training, they will surely adjust their tolerance.
Since female Pugs are more reserved and intense, they take instructions more seriously. They also want to please their owners, and just like anybody else, they do not want to fail those around them.
Off-leash training suits best for female Pugs because they are harder to distract. You do not have to worry if you train them without a leash because they know the way.
They do not easily trust people or animals they do not grow up with and that becomes both a pro and a con of getting a female. They certainly distrust strangers resulting in loud barking and howling and at the same time, they want to protect you from harm.
Just be extra careful when you need to walk them in parks or public places. Pugs are too charming to handle, and everyone would probably like to touch them. Avoid them from people they do not know because accidents or injuries may happen due to their territorial and reserved personality traits.
Health Differences
Males
The health problems of male Pugs are obviously linked to their physical activities. Because of their hyperactivities and larger body mass, male Pugs are more prone to bone and joint diseases.
Hip dysplasia, also common to male Pugs, is one of the reasons why male dogs suffer from the hip deformity. Always check up on your Pugs after a long day of training to avoid this type of condition.
Moreover, male Pugs are prone to skin rashes and staph bacteria because males are more likely to play with other animals. A weak immune system can also add up to the condition of having such infections. Yeast infection can become a burden to you if not quickly treated. Always have your Pugs vaccinated and properly groomed.
Many have said that male Pugs have a shorter lifespan compared to female Pugs. Although twelve and a half years are already long enough for a dog’s lifespan, the male’s immunity is not equal to female Pugs’. This is because male Pugs spend most of their life doing activities that spark their interest. The older they get, the weaker they become.
Females
The health condition of female Pugs does not differ from the condition of male Pugs. Both sexes can be prone to rashes, hip deformities, infections, and so on.
The extremity of the diseases will not depend on which of both genders can mostly survive. Again, both male and female Pugs also have differences but only matters when it comes to immunity.
Short-nose breeds like Pugs are more likely to have misshaped backbones. Observe their posture and you will understand that both sexes can become victims of this condition.
Female Pugs are most likely to have this though, most especially if they have undergone pregnancy. Nevertheless, female Pugs can become stronger after labor (it just takes some time).
Both sexes are highly prone to eye problems. If you want to get a hug, be more knowledgeable about the high risk of eye problems. Because of their bulging eyes, the hair on the lid touches the eyeball, causing friction and infection. They are also prone to dry eyes. Your vet can help you minimize this risk when your Pug experiences this.
Several Pug owners say that female Pugs have a longer lifespan than male Pugs. If you want to check the legitimacy of this information, you can check other articles on the Internet to convince yourself on whether it is a male or female Pug that you would like to get.
Since we are talking about this already, I want you to know that females may have a longer lifespan because of the reason that they are calmer and less stressed.
With Children
Males
Male Pugs that seem to be more playful and goofier have a high tendency to be great around kids. They love the attention that you give them, and they love it more if you participate in their little games.
It has come to their advantage that they do not treat kids like an enemy. If you want your kid to grow up with an animal companion, male Pugs are best suited for that area.
A little warning when you opt to have a male Pug when you also have kids in the house. Always Pug-proof your house, collect all the small objects on the floor that they will probably chew.
It may harm your Pug and worst, intoxicate them. Plastic toys and rubber ones are only good for teething, on top of this, nothing should come near male Pugs that can certainly harm them.
If your child does not have friends in your neighborhood, then consider getting a male Pug. If your child does not have the interest to play with other kids outside your home, then again, a male Pug is best for you.
Females
Female Pugs, as we all know, are more reserved and distant. They can be clingy at times and needy of attention but they do not want to exhaust themselves.
Because of their attentiveness, your child can be a trainer to your male Pug. It is as if you are hitting two birds with one stone. Your child can teach, and the female Pug can easily learn.
In addition, it is also great for kids to have a serious bond with a female Pug because female Pugs are not always in need of affection. Yes, they like attention too but they are not the type to push themselves to people just to have a play with. They may be highly maintained, but emotional attachment is often experienced.
Females still like to run after a child, not to scare the child, but just to have a fun time with them. Because female Pugs are more disciplined and focused, they play with extra care and cautiousness. Female Pugs, just like male Pugs, are also suitable for kids.
With Other Dogs
Males
True to their grouping, male Pugs are companion dogs not only for humans but also for other dogs. Male Pugs are more likely to befriend other dogs because of their playful personality.
Male Pugs tend to get along well with other dogs especially during playtime. They are stubborn at times but just remember that all they want is to please a friend.
Because they are more sociable than female Pugs, most Pug owners prefer getting a male Pug when they already have lots of dogs in their homes.
Unlike female Pugs, they do not have a high impulse to bark or grow when they see other animals. They will probably just stick around and sniff at them, trying to lessen the tension.
Although possessive at times, male Pugs are not that intense when it comes to their territories. Pugs do not like to create tension. That is why when they see other dogs in their territory, they are more willing to welcome them. They do get along well with almost every animal.
Females
As you are aware, female Pugs are sometimes distant and more like cautious. They are sensitive to strangers. When they see other dogs, they would probably just ignore them.
They do not want to get along with dogs that they are not acquainted with. Just like male Pugs, they are not aggressive either. They are calmer and more reserved when they get to meet other dogs.
Female Pugs are smarter, making them more competitive than male Pugs. When I say competitive, this does not mean that they seek for something chaotic. They are competitive in the sense that they bring out the best in them to please you and spare them your attention. So when they see other dogs near you, they will somehow get jealous.
Restrained, as they seem to be, female Pugs are not interested in playing with other dogs. They are more likely to play with their owners or with kids, but not with other dogs.
They love to lead, making them want to be commended and appreciated by their owners and people around them. They will never start a fight though, but they will just opt to ignore other dogs.
Which Is Better for a Family?
Although there is no need to compare female and male Pugs when it comes to familial settings, we have to be specific about how both act when they grow up in a family. This will be a tough discussion since Pugs like to be a part of the family and be close around people. Truly, it’s whichever dog fits your style of life better.
Female Pugs best fit in family environments that have lesser people and animals. Although they are not bothered with kids around them, they may be disturbed by the noise of their surroundings. However, it depends on the circumstance because dogs have different likings.
Advantages of Male Pugs in a Family Environment:
Can play with kids throughout the day.
·Enjoy unending trips. This is great for outgoing families.
Seem to get along well within the house with female dogs.
With new humans and animals, they are more social and easy-going.
Usually binding on all family members fairly.
Advantages of Female Pugs in a Family Environment:
More vigilant around the kids.
The earlier the age, the easier to train.
During their puppy years, they are less likely to be reactive.
More guarded when in public.
Almost no trust in strangers.
Will get along well within the house with a lesser number of dogs.
Normally bond closely to one particular member of the family.
I suggest when you get a dog, you must first assess your environment. Ask your family if they’d like to get another dog so they can become aware of new adjustments.
If they like to have another dog, then ask whichever dog they like to have. It is important to note the advantages mentioned above so that it will be easier for you to decide.
If you have kids in your house who also love to play with dogs, or are good at taking care of dogs, then this is your chance to practice how your child communicates with dogs.
Getting a male Pug is more likely enjoyable for kids since male Pugs like to be tickled and played with. Also, there is no harm in letting your child play with male Pugs. Male Pugs love everything except resting.
On top of that, female Pugs are loyal and affectionate but this is only on random moments. When you decide to get a female Pug, be sure that you are emotionally invested in them. Applaud them in your little training sessions, and give them treats. Do not also forget to exercise them regularly to avoid obesity.
Which Is a Better Guard Dog?
This is not a difficult question to ponder. You have to remember the fact that Pugs are not suitable for heavy training, more so in laborious works. They belong in the group of companionship.
This means that Pugs can do better even without training. Because when you put them into guard work, you have to train them in many conditions.
Depending on what kind of guard work you will be using them for. You have to remind yourself again of training them minimally and lightly. Guard works are only applicable for larger body built, not for smooth and delicate bodies like Pugs’. Below are the advantages of having Pugs as guard dogs.
Advantages of Male Pug Guard Dogs:
They can easily sense danger.
They do not befriend others they do not like.
They will bark at those who will try to hit you.
Will establish dominance when triggered.
Sticks to your side whenever in public.
Advantages of Female Pug Guard Dogs:
Highly sensitive to their surroundings.
Very loyal and protective to their owner.
Distrust strangers and other animals.
Make a great watchdog.
Alert and vigilant.
Pugs are not good guard dogs. But if you wish to have a Pug guard dog, lessen your expectations when it comes to guarding work. They are more likely to become alarm dogs because of their alertness and vigilance. However, stop expecting that a companion dog will likely become a guard dog because as I have said, it can only be a watchdog.
Pugs With Cats
Since cats and dogs are more likely to be seen in a household, we must also know the differences between the two. When you finally decide to get whichever Pug you would like to have, you have ideas on how to calm down these two. Only if you have cats in your house or you also want to have one.
Similar to both male and female Pugs, cats are also in need of attention sometimes. The random affection that they make you feel is also the same as the attention that Pugs would like to feel.
Female Pugs and female cats have lots of similarities when it comes to traits, like being more reserved, uninterested in playtime, like to be alone, and somehow aloof. Male Pugs and cats are both goofy, fun-loving, and quirks around. When you have both animals, your house will be looking more alive.
Final Thoughts
I wrote this article purposely for you to be guided whichever Pug do you prefer. I don’t want you to be misguided and impulsively buy a Pug without a little background about it.
Whether you want a male or a female Pug, it is important that you have a better environment for these kinds of animals. Always treat them like they are your best buddies.
In this article, I have discussed the differences between male and female Pugs, as well as the advantages of both sexes. The biggest factor for you to consider is their temperament and how ready you are to get a dog like Pugs. It is not always fun, there are times that you spend time disciplining and socializing them more often.
I hope this article helped you decide whether Pug best fits your liking and environment. If you have enough time, you can visit this site and you can scan more articles that relate to dogs for broader options and wider information.
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