Last Updated on September 20, 2023
Quick Summary: Beagles are known for their distinctive floppy ears, while Pugs are well-known for their wrinkled, smooshy faces. Both come in various colors, and they are relatively small compared to other dog breeds. As for their temperament, they both enjoy playing with their families, are docile, and won’t bite unless provoked. Their energy levels are quite different, with the Beagles wanting to get physical at every chance they get while Pugs are more inclined to stay put. With regard to training, these dogs are very stubborn and will do anything they want, so prepare for a long learning curve when you get either one of them. The good news is that if properly cared for, both the Beagle and the Pug can live long and healthy lives.
People looking for the perfect pet often compare the Beagle to the Pug and it’s easy to see why. People all over the globe love these two breeds of dogs. They are both loved for their unique looks. Many people choose to adopt the best of both breeds by crossing these two types into the dog, the Puggle!
It takes more than charm to determine which breed of dog is best for you. Because they are distinct breeds, the Pug and the Beagle have different needs and characteristics. Both breeds are loving animals, but their temperaments and looks can make a difference.
Before you decide on these two friendly, family-friendly dogs,, you need to be clear about what you can expect. We will be discussing the history and needs of each breed as well as their temperaments, health concerns, and nutritional requirements. Find out which breed is the best for you!
Breed History
Both these puppies have fascinating tale book histories. These stories are worth the effort. These stories give you an insight into the reasons these dogs behave and look the way that they do. This will allow you to make informed decisions about whether or not to get either breed.
The Beagle
The Beagle’s history is shrouded in mystery, records show dogs of their ilk lived in BCE Greece. Beagle forerunners also have their places in 700s-1000s era Britain. These pups were bred by hunters to hunt wild game.
About 800 years later, the dog we know formally as the Beagle made its way to the United States. It didn’t take long for the American Kennel Club to recognize this breed, and they consistently rank highly on the Club’s popularity lists.
Most people don’t think of the Beagle as a fearsome hunter when they look at it. People are just as likely to remember Snoopy, the beloved cartoon character. For luggage screening, airports rely on their keen senses as well as their unintimidating nature.
The Pug
The Pug is a breed of dog that has a simpler history. They were domesticated in China centuries ago. Needless to say, pet owners loved the wrinkles of their dogs.
The Dutch are responsible for the popularity of the Pug in Europe. After a Pug allegedly saved Prince William of Orange by alerting him to oncoming intruders in the 16th century, this dog breed was dubbed the House of Orange’s official canine.
The breed was loved by European royalty throughout the centuries, including Marie Antoinette. These Pugs were loved by Queen Victoria of England, who was also a Pug breeder! The breed still has regal status in China.
As for the United States, Pugs were officially recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club in the mid-1880s. Though their popularity went back and forth through the years, the dogs always had their cult following. The Pug Dog Club of America was formed in 1931 and received American Kennel Club approval the same year.
Temperament and Personality
Temperament is an important aspect of choosing a pet. Temperament can be a deciding factor for potential pet parents. Both breeds make excellent companions, as you can see.
They both enjoy playing with their families. Both dogs are docile and won’t bite unless provoked. Both dog breeds are great for families with children.
Both can be stubborn and headstrong. However, with love and perseverance, you will be able to train them to live in harmony with your family.
These are the main similarities. Each dog has a unique set of characteristics that makes them perfect for each family. Let’s have a closer look.
Mood and Behavioral Differences
Hunters bred Beagles for their sport. They are very active and full of energy. You need to give them lots of stimulation and play; otherwise, they may get into mischief that you won’t like, such as trying to escape. Beagles are actually closer in temperament to a Labrador than the Pug is, which means these two aren’t really close with how they interact with their human owners.
The energy of pugs is quite different. These creatures are lap dogs by nature. It’s possible to sit down and spend a day with them. You need to spend a lot of time with them. They will not respond well if you don’t give them the attention that they want.
Each dog is unique. A Pug might be a tough dog while a Beagle may have a gentler temperament. It all comes down to how well they were socialized as puppies. Talk to the breeder or adoption center if you have concerns about any dog’s behavior.
Appearance and Color
While not everyone will be able to identify each breed, most people would be able to tell the difference. Beagles are known for their distinctive floppy ears while Pugs are well-known for their wrinkled, smooshy faces. There are many other physical differences between these two breeds.
Beagles can come in many colors. They are tricolored: black at the back, with tan highlights on the shoulders and head and hindquarters, and white around the stomach, legs, and chest. Some Beagles may have red and white speckles on certain parts of their bodies. Some have multiple colors. Beagles are known for their short shiny coats and hazel eyes.
Pugs come in black and fawn. However, two fawn dogs won’t look exactly the same. Pugs can come in a variety of skin tones, including apricots and silvers. Pugs can have any shade of skin, but they still have black ears, muzzles, and deep brown eyes. Their coats are short and velvety.
One thing these two wonderful companions have in common? They are both relatively small in comparison to other dog breeds. Healthy Beagles may weigh twice as much as a healthy Pug, but they are both great for loving and petting.
Training Techniques
These dogs are very stubborn and will do anything they want, so prepare for a long learning curve when you get either one of them. Beagles can take as long as a year to housetrain correctly. Both breeds require obedience training and a crate.
If you are planning on crate training, make sure you purchase a properly sized dog crate. The Pug will be smaller than the Beagle but will eventually grow to medium or large size. This means you should be planning for a crate that’s 30 inches in length for the Beagle and 24 inches in length for the Pug.
You can train any breed if you are willing and able. This is where you’ll notice how the two breeds differ. They love food, but it’s better to save food-based rewards on Beagles.
Pugs should be treated with care to avoid overeating and other health problems. Beagles shouldn’t be allowed to eat too much. During training and at mealtimes, keep track of the food your dog eats.
Exercise and Basic Health Care
Both breeds have energy levels that are very different. Whereas Beagles want to get physical at every chance they get, Pugs are more inclined to stay put unless their friends are moving around, too.
It is recommended that Beagles get at least an hour of physical activity each day. Multiple walks per day can be a good idea if you can manage it. Make sure your Beagle has a comfortable harness for their daily walks to make them as enjoyable as possible.
While you should give your Beagle some active time, your doggy mustn’t be left alone for a very long time. Beagles are pack animals and need to be accompanied by other members of the pack, such as you and your family. Beagles are not meant to be left alone. They can act out in unpredictable ways, such as digging up your yard and looking for a scent. If you must leave them alone, you can get your Beagle a secure crate to act as a den and safe spot for their anxious tendencies.
Pugs require less exercise, but they still need to exercise. Because of their predisposition, they tend to become obese very quickly, which is why exercising is an essential need. You can take your Pug on short walks in the neighborhood or out in the yard to keep it fit. Harness training is also a good idea. Pugs need an adjustable harness for walks due to their irregular body size.
Pugs love attention. They will follow you outside if your attention is directed outside. Be extra careful on hot and cold days – extreme temperatures are detrimental to Pugs, particularly hot temperatures where they are prone to overheating.
Grooming and Maintenance
Anyone looking to buy a dog should consider their grooming needs. Shedding is one of the most important things that comes to mind. Although they have similar coats, every breed sheds differently. Beagles are moderate shedders, and Pugs shed a ton. Brushing either breed should be done at least once a week, but it may be more frequently depending on the dog’s needs.
Bathing can be done less frequently, approximately once a month. Beagles can get infections if the water gets in their ears.
Pugs need to have their skin cleaned regularly. The folds of their skin make bacteria more likely to get trapped. To avoid infection, it’s essential to clean underneath these folds.
Nutrition
This part is easy because both dogs like the same food. Both breeds can eat dry kibble. Typically, a Beagle should be fed 1-1.5 cups of dry dog food per day, while Pugs only need about a cup. This amount should be divided into two meals every day. These are guidelines only.
When feeding your dog, be sure to consider their health and nutritional needs. Both breeds are susceptible to obesity. Keep track of what they eat. You should also be aware of allergies. It is not good for your dog to experience a reaction. If you are unsure about the needs of your dog, consult a veterinarian.
Health Issues
If properly cared for, both dogs can live long and healthy lives. Still, both breeds are susceptible to certain diseases and conditions due to their breeding history. Epilepsy is one such condition that both breeds are at risk. Although epileptic dogs may still live a healthy life, it is important to take your dog to the veterinarian if they experience seizures.
There’s a neurological condition that only appears in Pugs, known as Pug Dog Encephalitis. It causes seizures, blindness, and eventually even death. This disease can only be diagnosed post-mortem, it is not possible to test in live Pugs.
Meanwhile, a condition unique to Beagles is Chinese Beagle Syndrome, also known as Musladin-Lueke Syndrome, where the skull is wider than typical, and the eyes are slanted. This syndrome is not fatal. However, it can cause problems in the heart and feet of Beagles.
The Beagle breed can be susceptible to hip dysplasia and other medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, ACL tears, cataracts, and heart disease.
Common health concerns that can affect Pugs include eye and skin conditions as well as Brachycephalic Syndrome (BOAS).
Puppy Prices and Costs
Both dogs are in the same general price bracket: both of them run around $1,000 and up for a purebred puppy. Trustworthy breeders will be more willing to pay for their puppies. While prices can dip below the average at times, any price that is too low can indicate an irresponsible breeder. You can adopt your furry friend if you don’t want to deal with breeders.
Conclusion
We are so glad you have determined that they are both such beautiful dog breeds, with unique traits that make them each the perfect addition to any family.
The major difference between these two breeds is the energy level. While Beagles can be very active, Pugs are great for those who want to relax and enjoy quiet evenings. One thing’s for sure – you’re sure to find a friend no matter which one you choose.