Whether you’re adopting through a rescue, or you’ve found a good breeder, you’ve made the joyous decision of getting a pug and now you’re choosing between a male and a female Pug. I’ve had the pleasure of having both and I can help you make a decision.
The decision can be as delightful as the breed itself. While Pugs are universally adored, each gender comes with its own set of characteristics that might influence your choice.
Pugs, renowned for their charming personalities and affectionate nature, make for wonderful companions. However, understanding the differences between male and female Pugs can help you make a more informed decision.
Here are some general tendencies when it comes to male vs. female Pugs:
Male Pugs are often larger, take more time to mature, and exhibit a goofier, more playful, and affectionate demeanor. On the other hand, female Pugs are generally smaller, display greater independence, showcase higher intelligence, and tend to be more protective.
Let’s delve into various aspects that distinguish male and female Pugs:
The Size of a Pug
We’ve covered this in-depth before, and the breed standard for pugs is 14-18 pounds… but of course anyone who’s seen a pug knows that the breed is subject to obesity.
When it comes to size, male Pugs typically exhibit the following dimensions:
- Height: 10-13 inches
- Weight: 14-18 pounds
Females, on the other hand, are slightly smaller:
- Height: 10-12 inches
- Weight: 13-17 pounds
Males do tend be bigger, however that does not mean that females can’t be bigger. While these are generalizations, individual variations can occur based on factors like genetics, diet, and exercise.
Maturity of Male vs Female Pugs
Similar to many species, female Pugs mature faster than their male counterparts. This can make the process of potty training marginally easier for female Pugs during their early stages.
Personality of Pugs
The personality traits of Pugs can vary, but some common observations include:
- Male Pugs: Playful, goofy, and affectionate.
- Female Pugs: Independent, intelligent, and protective.
It’s important to note that individual experiences and backgrounds can significantly influence a Pug’s personality. Regardless of gender, pugs are great family dogs and are good with kids.
Marking
Male Pugs tend to engage in more marking behavior than females, especially during walks. Neutering can help reduce this behavior, transforming their habits to be more akin to females.
My last male pug, Benji, did not seem to mark a lot… it was ultimately his humping that led to the decision of getting neutered. 😅
Humping
Both male and female Pugs may exhibit humping behavior, though most common in males. It’s typically influenced by various factors such as sexual urges, dominance, or playfulness. Neutering or spaying can help mitigate this behavior.
Barking
Pugs, in general, are moderate barkers. However, male Pugs may have louder and deeper barks due to their larger size, while females might bark more frequently, often as a protective measure.
Spaying/Neutering
The decision to spay or neuter your Pug should be discussed with your veterinarian, taking into consideration factors like gender, lifestyle, and cultural considerations.
Pug’s generally aren’t very expensive, something to consider if you’re thinking about breeding. There’s a lot that goes into it that should be considered and it’s worth noting that there are some groups that encourage stopping the breeding of pugs and other brachycephalic dogs.
Intelligence
Pugs are known for their intelligence, with individual variations. Some owners suggest that female Pugs may be slightly smarter, possibly due to their faster maturity or less mischievous behavior.
I’d say both genders are equally smart… Lats (my female) may know more tricks, but it could just have came with more experience raising dogs by me.
Protection
While male Pugs may have a size advantage and a louder bark, females often exhibit a more protective nature, expressing wariness towards strangers.
Either way, your lil pug won’t be very intimidating to most. 😅
Bonding & Affection
The perception of affection can vary, with some claiming that male Pugs are more cuddly. However, individual differences play a significant role, and both genders can form deep bonds with their owners.
Choosing the Right Pug
Ultimately, the best Pug for you depends on your preferences and lifestyle. Engaging with reputable breeders, discussing your requirements, and observing the puppies’ behavior can help you make an informed decision. Keep in mind that regardless of gender, Pugs are known for their loving nature and can make wonderful additions to your family.
