Which lives longer, the German Shepherd Dog or the Pug?

The Pug has the longer median lifespan: German Shepherd Dog 11.3 years versus Pug 11.6 years (McMillan 2024).

Which is healthier, the German Shepherd Dog or the Pug?

On the Breed Health Score the German Shepherd Dog scores 59/100 and the Pug scores 55/100. The German Shepherd Dog scores higher.

German Shepherd Dog vs Pug

The German Shepherd Dog has a median lifespan of 11.3 years and a Breed Health Score of 59/100 (grade C); the Pug lives a median of 11.6 years with a score of 55/100 (grade C). On the overall index the German Shepherd Dog scores higher. The Pug has the longer median lifespan.

German Shepherd Dog

59grade C

Pug

55grade C

Median lifespan

11.3 yr

11.6 yr

Size

large · 22-40 kg

toy · 6-8 kg

Flat-faced

Yes

Longevity

Conformation

100

Hereditary burden

Health Score

59C

55C

Conditions

Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Degenerative myelopathy Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency GDV (bloat)

BOAS Pug dog encephalitis Corneal ulcers Skin fold dermatitis Obesity

Full profiles

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How to read this. The Breed Health Score combines longevity (65%), conformation (20%) and hereditary burden (15%); see the methodology. Median lifespan is from McMillan, K.M. et al. (2024) "Longevity of companion dog breeds", Scientific Reports (584,734 UK dogs). Data CC-BY 4.0. These are independent estimates for comparing breeds, not veterinary advice. Build your own with the interactive compare tool.