Side by side

Put a few breeds side by side before you make up your mind.

Pick up to four. The URL updates as you go, so you can send this comparison to whoever you are arguing with.

BreedPuggle dogPuggleGreater Swiss Mountain Dog dogGreater Swiss Mountain Dog
OriginUnited States, 1990sSwitzerland
GroupCrossbreedWorking
SizeSmallGiant
CoatShortShort, dense tricolour double coat
Weight7 to 14 kg50 to 63 kg
Height28 to 38 cm60 to 72 cm
Lifespan12 to 15 yrs8 to 11 yrs
Exercise need6/106/10
Affection9/108/10
Grooming needs3/103/10
Barking7/106/10
Good with children8/108/10
Good with other dogs7/107/10
Trainability5/107/10
Prey drive6/104/10
Copes alone4/104/10
Drool3/104/10
Shedding4/107/10
Flat fit8/103/10
Running cost€64 / month€150 / month

Puggle verdict

A clown with a Beagle nose and a Pug heart

Get one if

  • · Families wanting a sturdy, cheerful small dog
  • · First-time owners happy to train with food and patience
  • · Households where someone is home most of the day

Think again if

  • · Anyone set on a flat-faced look; breathing comfort matters more
  • · People who need reliable off-lead recall near roads or livestock
  • · Households that free-feed or cannot resist begging eyes
Read the full Puggle guide →

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog verdict

The gentle draft worker of the Alps

Get one if

  • · Families wanting a calm, gentle giant
  • · Owners with space and budget for a very large dog
  • · People interested in carting or draft work

Think again if

  • · First-time owners unprepared for giant-breed costs
  • · Homes in hot climates without cooling
  • · Anyone wanting a long-lived dog
Read the full Greater Swiss Mountain Dog guide →