American Lo-Sze Pug vs Chinese Pug: US vs Asia, Who Is The Winner?

For centuries, many dog fans had a soft spot for toy breed dogs. And speaking of toy dogs, Pugs were always amongst the most popular breeds. Starting with ancient times, only the nobles were the lucky ones to own a few wrinkled pals who would become their devoted companions.

Way back when an average Pug was quite a traveler, coming to the European Continent from Asia. One of the biggest Pug fans was the English monarch, Queen Victoria, herself. From Europe, Pugs traveled across the pond and ended up in the USA, where they became an instant hit. The breed was a little different from the traditional Pug we know and was titled “American Lo-Sze Pugg.” So, if we compared American Lo-Sze Pug vs Chinese Pug, who would win? Before we dig into the comparison, let’s discuss where both breeds originated from.

Chinese Pug: Origin

Ancient Egypt is where the first mention of Pugs surfaced and they were greatly cherished by the Egyptian nobility. They served as companions as well as guards, and protectors of assets.

Around 2000 years ago, some Pug members traveled to Tibet and were welcomed by Buddhist monks. The latter fell in love with these bug-eyed creatures and the wrinkle-faced quickly developed a bond with their new masters. Pugs proved to be the most devoted companions and excellent guards. 

Somewhere around the 16th century, Pug puppies traveled from Asia across the ocean and ended up on European soil. A few witty Dutch merchants smuggled several pups out of China, since they knew these adorable cuties would become the next Asian World wonder. And right they were. Pugs quickly won the hearts of most of the European royal families. Chinese Pugs permanently settled both in royal minds and hearts, becoming loyal companions, guardians, and best friends. 

Even though there is no official proof of the “English Pug” breed out there, an American Lo-Sze Pug does exist. It is a little different from the original Pug we all know. So let’s move on to discussing the US Lo-Sze Pug’s history.

Related Reading: Japanese Chin Pug Mix: A Modern Asian Story

American Lo-Sze Pug: Origin

Those cuties have the ancient Chinese Pug as their ancestor. The original Pug looked slightly different from its modern version: shorter legs, less curly tail, and a longer snout. They were also a little smaller in size compared to the Asian predecessor: about 9-11 inches in height and the weight rarely exceeded 11-12 lbs. In comparison, modern Pugs are about 12-13 inches in height and are heavier: up to 15-18 lbs in weight. 

But who exactly was responsible for creating the American Lo-Sze breed? A woman breeder named Rebecca Manns was the one who introduced the American Pug species to the US canine market. Her goal was to make sure the adapted Asian breed closely resembled its Chinese parent, the Lo-Sze Pugg, aka Lo-Sze dog. The Lo-Sze Pugg was the ancient Chinese Pug, the one that the Egyptian and Chinese nobles adored.   

The Lo-Sze dogs are, unfortunately, not recognized by any official canine club. However, a Pug owner can register it at either the International Rare Breed Dog Club or another popular canine organization: the Dog Registry of America.

Now, let’s compare the American Lo-Sze vs Chinese Pug and discuss both species’ pros as well as cons a Pug enthusiast should know about when deciding which way to go. 

American Lo-Sze Pug vs Chinese Pug

Chinese pug

Pros

1. Family Friendly: one of the best family dogs you can ever have! Friendly, outgoing, and playful, this wrinkled bundle of joy would be perfect for a household with children. One thing though: parents have to supervise both the two- and the four-legged children to make sure the interaction is stress-free. Fits any type of household: very compact, petite dog, who would fit practically any type of home, be it an apartment or a mansion. It doesn’t need a lot of room to roam around and can have its small private corner to rest.
2. Doesn’t Require a Lot of Daily Exercises: it needs to go potty at least a few times a day, but when it comes to being very active, Pugs do not require much exercise at all. Hence, don’t worry about tiring them out like large breed canines. They will do just fine cuddling with you on the couch.
3. Clownish: oh yeah, that’s probably one of the most pleasant perks you get about Pugs! They will behave in a very funny way without even knowing about it, and crack you up doing so. From rolling on their backs, and acting silly to trying to steal your favorite slippers, get ready for some giggles!

Cons

1. A Lot of Health Issues: from brachycephaly to joint issues, Pugs are notorious for having multiple health problems that are often inherited. Thus, there’s little a pet parent can do, other than monitor its wellness periodically by bringing a pooch to the vet.
2. Heavy Shedder: surprisingly enough, Pugs do shed a lot, even though they have very short coats. Invest in a good-quality de-shedding brush to avoid piles of fur all over the house.
3. Stubborn: not the easiest dog to train if you ask me. Tends to act in the “my way or the highway” type of scenario, therefore needs a strong leader to follow.
4. Prone to Separation Anxiety: as with a lot of toy breed dogs, Pugs are no exception when it comes to developing a very close attachment to their owners. This, in turn, can backfire and become a problem when a pet parent has to go to work or run errands.

American lo-sze pug

Pros

1. Very Compact: if we compare Chinese Pug vs American Pug, the difference in size will be noticeable. As we briefly mentioned above, the latter one is much smaller both in height and in weight. 
2. Children-Friendly: this is how both breeds are similar. No matter if it’s a modern Pug version or its “vintage” Lo-Sze variant, both are excellent family pets. 
3. Low Activity Requirements: also, like its Chinese Pug counterpart, the American Lo-Sze Pugg doesn’t need a lot of vigorous activities. Several walks per day can fully satisfy its physical activity requirements. 

Cons

1. Wary of Strangers: tends to be a little vocal if an unknown individual approaches it or its territory. However, once it gets better acquainted with a person, it will want to become its best friend.
2. Prone to Gaining Weight: yep, a pet owner needs to watch how much a Pug pup eats. Since they are low-activity canines (sleeping and eating only for the most part) wrinkled pals are packing on pounds very fast. 
3. Health Issues: experience the same type of wellness problems as their Chinese Pug relatives. Some of them can be managed with a particular routine while others can benefit from medications and/or surgery.

Curl-Up 

American Lo-Sze Pug vs Chinese Pug, who is winning for you after you’ve read the article? Whichever kind you choose as your next household pet, know that you are getting a devoted life companion. Pugs are one of the best “therapy” dogs, very social and family-friendly. Therefore, you will never regret you got one, trust me. Happy bonding!

Related Reading: Where Did Pugs Originate From?