
Pugs are extremely adorable canines with their squished-in noses and wrinkled bodies. The beauty of this dog breed is the primary reason why it was bred to be companions for nobility.
Over the years, breeders have developed several other dogs that carry the same magnificence that a pug has. In addition to physical appearance, these hybrids offer numerous other benefits, like fewer health issues. Some of these dog breeds that look like pugs are discussed below.
Brussels Griffon

This toy dog hails from the city of Brussels and was originally bred for hunting rats. Despite their small size, these canines have a big personality and they will try to boss their people. Having said that, these affectionate and lively dogs can become amazing companions if they are given sufficient attention. They also get along well with other dogs and pets and are suitable for apartment life.
This breed was developed by crossing Pugs, English Toy Spaniels, and a small German Terrier. The term “monkey face” is often associated with Griffons as they have a prominent chin and large eyes. Although they are small and cuddly, Brussels Griffons can be heavier than they look. These intelligent dogs do reasonably well in different dog sports, such as agility.
Bulldog

Bulldogs are one of the most exaggerated examples of a dog breed that looks like pugs. Sometimes, they are also called the English Bulldogs to differentiate them from their French cousins. This medium-sized canine was primarily developed for driving cattle to the market. In contrast to their working background, these gentle companions love to rest on your couch.
Although Bulldogs have descended from fighting mastiffs that were used in bull-baiting, they have an extremely loving nature. These muscular pups have short-muzzled heads and wrinkled skin that makes them similar to pugs. However, their characteristic features (like massive jaws and distinctive gait) gives them their unique identity.
Bullmastiff

This large breed was developed by interbreeding the English Mastiff and the Old English Bulldog. This fearless canine has a solid build and was originally used to guard estates. Nowadays, Bullmastiffs are known as firm guard dogs and are often called the “silent watchdog”. Even though they are quite standoffish towards strangers, these 130-pound pups won’t mind sitting on your feet.
Although they have no comparison in terms of size, Bullmastiffs do look like pugs due to their short muzzle. The daunting stature of these dogs makes them a wonderful deterrent but a well-trained Bullmastiff is a noble companion for his/her family.
Chinese Shar-Pei

If you need to describe this dog breed in one word, you would think of nothing else but ‘wrinkled’. The loose, wrinkled skin of this canine gives them a really cute appearance, just like pugs. Similarly, they have a short-muzzled face that would compel you to hug every Shar-Pei you encounter. Owing to the reserved nature of these dogs towards strangers, it’s not something that we recommend.
This Chinese breed has been around for hundreds of years. These dogs have served their owners in a variety of ways, such as hunting, herding, and even fighting. Nowadays, most of Shar-Peis enjoy domestic life as beloved companions.
Chug

This hybrid breed was intentionally developed (in the early 2000s) by mixing Chihuahua and Pug. The basic goal behind these efforts was to get the positive attributes of both the dog breeds. It can be assumed that things went considerably well as Chugs have some of the best traits (playful, loyal, etc.).
Thanks to their Chihuahua genes, these small dogs have big personalities. They act as if they are large canines and like to be a part of everything that is happening in their surroundings. A chug can become an amazing family pet if you train your pup, as well as your young children.
It is quite unfortunate that this beautiful breed is sometimes labeled as a designer dog. However, you can find some Chugs in the care of rescue groups that are available for adoption.
Daug

The Daug is the offspring of two purebred dogs, the Dachshund and the Pug. It inherits the traits of both its parents and can make an excellent domestic dog. This breed is suitable for all kinds of families and can also adapt well to apartment life. However, these pups can be stubborn and do require firm and consistent training.
Daugs are extremely fond of their people and don’t like to spend long spells of loneliness. These intelligent canines have a calm and friendly personality so they get along well with other pets, including dogs. Similarly, a Daug makes a great play partner for children. Having said that, you must supervise this interaction because young kids can indulge in rough play.
Dogue de Bordeaux

Also known as the Bordeaux Mastiff, it is one of the oldest French dog breeds. This powerful and muscular canine is recognized by a massive head and deep wrinkles. Due to this short-muzzled face, they do have a resemblance with pugs (a much smaller breed).
One of the members of this breed co-starred with Tom Hanks in the movie, Turner and Hooch. It provided a massive boost to the popularity of the Dogue de Bordeaux in the US. Although they are extremely loyal, French Mastiffs require rigorous training and socialization because of their territorial attitude. If you are planning to get one, just keep in mind that they usually snore and drool.
Need a gift for the Pug Lover in your life? Why not this 18 inch decorative pillow by Lacanu found on Amazon.
Muggin

This mixed breed is the result of crossing the Pug with the Miniature Pinscher. This energetic canine is an ideal companion for active families as it requires daily exercise. Min Pin Pugs are also good with children and like to stay around their people. However, this dog breed is NOT recommended for novice owners due to its high spirit and lively character.
Other than domestication, this excitable, little pup has excelled in several fields, such as agility and obedience. Likewise, it has proven to be a vigilant watchdog and fills your home with zest. In addition to that, Muggin is also regarded as a popular designer dog around the globe.
Please keep in mind that we may receive a small commission when you click our links and make purchases and as an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.