Lhasa Apso vs Miniature American Shepherd
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Lhasa Apso: Regular Exercise0.6
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Lhasa Apso: Independent0.4
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Lhasa Apso: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Lhasa Apso3/5
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Lhasa Apso3/5
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Good with Strangers
Lhasa Apso3/5
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
Lhasa Apso Fun Fact
Lhasa Apsos were considered so sacred in Tibet that they could never be sold, only given as gifts.
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
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.
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
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.
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
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