9 Dogs That Look Like Pugs (Which Ones Make Great Pets)

So you’ve fallen in love with a pug. We understand – those flat faces and snub noses could charm anyone. If you want to bring home a new pug but can’t find one in your area, check out this list of dogs that look like pugs. You might find your next pet!

1. French Bulldog

Somewhere in the world, someone is probably mistaking a French bulldog for a pug. They have the same squat bodies and small, eager faces.

French bulldogs are sweet-tempered enough to fit almost any household, whether a family abode with young children or a solo unit. A Frenchie will be your best friend as long as you have oodles of time for cuddles and play. These loving pups thrive around their humans and might get frustrated with long stretches of alone time.

2.  Boston Terrier

Add a pair of giant, bat-like ears and a curling tail to a pug, and you get the Boston terrier. This terrier breed was bred to fight, but you would never guess by their goofy behavior and affectionate natures.

Boston Terriers are incredibly popular in the U.S. because they make cute, loyal pets. It’s okay if everyone in your household works outside the home because these dogs are perfectly happy playing or relaxing alone for a while.

3. English Bulldog

How about a dog with a pug-like face on a short, chubby body? The English bulldog’s muscles give them a tough look, but that notion disappears when you hang out with them for five minutes. An English bulldog just wants to sit at your side, relaxing and checking out the room.

These dogs are perfect companions as long as you don’t mind a little snoring and slobbering.

4.  Brussels Griffon

For a flat-faced dog with a huge personality, look at the Brussels Griffon. Their small faces are set off by long, luxurious beards. It’s not surprising that this breed comes to mind when thinking of dogs that look like pugs because the original Brussels Griffon was actually a cross between an English toy spaniel and a pug.

You’ll be happy with a Brussels Griffon trotting at your side if you’re okay with a little noise. They tend to be active barkers.

5.  Japanese Chin

Feeling a little bored with your day-to-day life? Adopt a Japanese Chin. You’ll get a rambunctious best friend in a tiny, furry body. Your Japanese Chin would happily be with you all day, every day, letting you stare into its pug-like features.

A Japanese Chin doesn’t need much space, so they can easily live in an apartment.

6.  Bullmastiff

Small dogs don’t have a monopoly on flat faces. There are a few giants in the mix, too! One of them is the bullmastiff, a regal and impressive dog that can weigh 130 pounds. Your bullmastiff is too big to be a lapdog, but that won’t stop them from trying.

Before adopting a bullmastiff, make sure your life has room for a huge dog that needs plenty of exercise.

7. Pekingese

Throughout history, Pekingese were found on the laps of royalty. The same affection-loving personality exists today. A Pekingese will happily fill the role if you want a lap dog. They’re not entirely docile, however. For a small dog, Pekingese have a ton of spunk.

Appearance-wise, Pekingese have much longer coats than pugs. This might be a problem if you have allergies or don’t want to clean up a lot of hair.

8. Chihuahua

Is it the pug’s small size that you like? A chihuahua is even more petite and has many of the same awesome qualities. Chihuahuas energize the room with their happy antics.

A chihuahua isn’t the best pet for every family, however. They have a loud bark and are known to use it often. They make up for it with loyalty, feistiness, and a low need for exercise. Many dog owners can’t or don’t want to go on daily long walks.

9. Pomeranian

Does the idea of a little ball of fluff zooming around the house make you happy? Adopting a Pomeranian gets you pug-like affection and a lot more fur. Pomeranians are especially popular for their high intelligence and cartoonishly cute looks.

They’re great family pets when the kids are at least school-age. Toddler play might be too rough for dainty Pomeranians.

Summary of Dogs That Look Like Pugs

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