Lhasa Apso vs Cairn Terrier
Breed Compatibility
99% Compatible
Energy Level
Lhasa Apso: Regular Exercise0.6
Cairn Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Lhasa Apso: Independent0.4
Cairn Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Lhasa Apso: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Cairn Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Lhasa Apso3/5
Cairn Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Lhasa Apso3/5
Cairn Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Lhasa Apso3/5
Cairn Terrier3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Lhasa Apso
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Eye degeneration
Cherry Eye: Third eyelid inflammation
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Sebaceous Adenitis: Skin condition
Renal Dysplasia: Kidney development issue
Cairn Terrier
Craniomandibular Osteopathy: Jaw growth
Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy: Neural
Ocular Melanosis: Eye condition
Portosystemic Shunt: Liver issue
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clot
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision
Pros & Cons Comparison
Lhasa Apso
Pros
Loyal and devoted
Good apartment dog
Long lifespan
Minimal shedding
Excellent watchdog
Cons
High grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Reserved with strangers
Frequent barking
Independent nature
Cairn Terrier
Pros
Excellent vermin hunter
Adaptable to various homes
Affectionate with family
Low maintenance grooming
Cons
Can be stubborn
May chase small animals
Tends to bark
Can be independent
Lhasa Apso Fun Fact
Lhasa Apsos were considered so sacred in Tibet that they could never be sold, only given as gifts.
Cairn Terrier Fun Fact
Known as 'the best little pal in the world,' Cairns were once grouped with Scotties and West Highland Terriers.
Heritage & Purpose
Lhasa Apso
Origin:
Serving as sentinel dogs in Tibetan monasteries and palaces since 800 BC, these alert watchdogs protected Buddhist monasteries and warned of approaching strangers.
Cairn Terrier
Origin:
Developed in the Scottish Highlands during the 1800s to hunt foxes, badgers, and other vermin. These hardy dogs excelled at navigating rocky terrain and pursuing quarry.
Special Considerations
Lhasa Apso
Regular grooming essential for coat maintenance. Moderate exercise needs but requires consistent training. Watch for eye and joint health issues throughout life.
Cairn Terrier
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat. Requires consistent exercise and training. Watch for signs of common health issues like eye problems.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
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