11 Dogs That Are Similar to Pugs (With Pictures)

Pugs are so stinkin’ cute.

They are part of a classification of dogs known as brachycephalic breeds—AKA flat-faced dogs. Many of these types of dogs were purposely bred to be companions for royalty and nobility. There’s just something about a short nose and flat face that screams elite.

And while these dogs do tend to have enhanced health complications, we still can’t help but love them. That being said, let’s take a look at some of the different flat-faced Pug-like dogs.

The 11 Dogs That Look Like Pugs

1. Boston Terriers

These terriers are among the most laid-back of all terriers. They love nothing more than just hanging out around the house with you or even tagging along for some outdoor adventures. Boston Terriers aren’t completely reliant on you either. The breed is actually pretty independent and does well when left alone for extended periods of time.

2. Brussels Griffon

If you’ve ever wanted an Ewok as a friend, this is about as close as you can get. They were originally bred by crossbreeding English Toy Spaniels and Pugs, which explains the long hair and flat face. They tend to suffer from a Napoleon complex as well. They’re a big dominant personality trapped in a smaller dog’s body.

3. French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is becoming an extremely popular breed nowadays. It may have something to do with its super cute bat ears or its mild-mannered personality. Either way, they’re not denying their superstardom. When French Bulldogs aren’t capturing the hearts of celebrities and other fans, they love spending the day snuggling up with their owners.

4. English Bulldog

There’s just something to love about these meatballs. They just snort, snore, and slobber their way straight into our hearts. Bulldogs also have that signature underbite that makes them that much more adorable. They’re known for being laid-back couch potatoes as well. So if you’re looking for a great companion to chill with, find a Bulldog.

5. Chinese Shar-Pei

This is one of the most easily recognized dog breeds around the world. And that’s due to excessive skin folds and wrinkles covering this pup’s body. They have a history of being watchdogs to royalty and the ruling elite due to their highly protective nature. They’re not too keen on strangers so be cautious when approaching a new Shar-Pei.

6. Dogue de Bordeaux

The Dogue de Bordeaux is not only the largest dog on this list but also the oldest of all French dog breeds. They’re also known as the French Mastiff, and like other Mastiff breeds, they can grow to enormous sizes, weighing up to 140 pounds! These are very strong, independent dogs that you should take seriously. They are very gentle towards their families but intensely loyal. When trained properly, these dogs can become guard dogs that are almost second to none.

7. Japanese Chin

Don’t let this pup’s small stature fool you. They’ve got some of the biggest personalities of any dog breed. They’re one part mischief, one part adventure, 100% goofy, and lapdogs to boot. And they have a mind of their own. While they can be trained, Japanese Chins will create their own routine if they don’t agree with the repetitiveness or structure that you’ve laid out for them.

8. Shih Tzu

If you look up lapdog in the dictionary, you’ll find a picture of the Shih Tzu. They want nothing more than to be worshipped and coddled by their masters all day, every day. When you come across a Shih Tzu owner, they’re likely to tell how much their little pooch rules their household through their demand for love and attention.

9. Pekingese

The Pekingese is very closely related to the Shih Tzu and shares a similar temperament. However, they are more prone to independent streaks and personality quirks. Pekingese tend to hold themselves with a higher air of nobility than other toy dogs. But that’s understandable. They’ve been bred for centuries to be the companion of choice for the imperial families of China.

10. Daug

The first designer dog on our list is the Daug. It’s a crossbreed mix between the Pug and the Dachshund. They have an elongated, stout body similar to the Dachshund with similar facial features to the pug. They normally don’t have completely flat faces, but instead a very short muzzle. They’re super loyal, affectionate, and laid-back. And they’re a great choice for anyone looking for a small-to-medium-sized dog.

11. Muggin

The Muggin is the second designer dog that looks like a Pug on our list. This time the breed is created through crossbreeding Pugs with Miniature Pinschers. They’re also referred to as Pin Pugs. They are a happy, energetic, bouncy bundle of fur who love to play and cuddle all at a moment’s notice. However, their willful nature doesn’t make them the easiest dogs to train.

Conclusion: Dogs That Look Like Pugs

If you’re absolutely in love with flat-faced dogs like the pug, you’ve got quite a few options. And each of them has their very own personality.

Just remember, adopting one of these pug-like dogs into your family is going to require some extra care and attention. Their flat faces and muzzles carry many extra potential complications—primarily affecting their respiratory tracts.

But if you’re prepared for the challenge these dogs can bring and are ready for a lifetime of your dog snoring, homing a flat-faced dog is a great reward.

Featured image credit: SneakyElbow, Pixabay