Lhasa Apso vs Yakutian Laika
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Lhasa Apso
Non-Sporting Group
Yakutian Laika
Foundation Stock Service
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Lhasa Apso Overview
Lhasa Apsos feature a long, dense double coat flowing to the ground, with a distinctive beard and fall of hair over the eyes. Their compact, sturdy build belies their agile nature. Distinguished by an alert, lion-like expression and well-feathered tail carried over the back, these dogs combine regal bearing with a mischievous charm. Their confident yet reserved demeanor reflects their ancient heritage as Tibetan sentinels.
Yakutian Laika Overview
Yakutian Laikas are hardy, medium-sized spitz-type dogs with distinctive wedge-shaped heads and thick double coats. Their almond-shaped eyes, erect triangular ears, and curved tail carried over the back create an alert, dignified appearance. Displaying remarkable agility and strength, these dogs combine an athletic build with elegant proportions, standing proudly with well-muscled shoulders and strong legs.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Lhasa Apsos are less energetic than Yakutian Laikas, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Lhasa Apsos require more grooming attention compared to Yakutian Laikas.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Lhasa Apsos tend to be more outgoing with strangers than Yakutian Laikas.
- Trainability: Yakutian Laikas may be slightly easier to train due to their Yakutian Laika's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Lhasa Apsos adapt better to apartment living, while Yakutian Laikas typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Lhasa Apso and Yakutian Laika, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Lhasa Apso | Yakutian Laika |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Toy | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 years | 10-12 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Russia (Yakutia region) |
| Breed Group | Non-Sporting Group | Foundation Stock Service |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Lhasa Apso | Yakutian Laika |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 10-11 inches 25-28 cm | 21-23 inches 53-58 cm |
| Weight | 12-18 lbs 5-8 kg | 40-55 lbs 18-25 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Infrequent | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Lhasa Apso | Yakutian Laika |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Confident, Smart, Comical | Affectionate, Intelligent, Active |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Lhasa Apso | Yakutian Laika |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Lhasa Apso Temperament
The Lhasa Apso is known for being confident, smart, comical, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Yakutian Laika Temperament
The Yakutian Laika is characterized by being affectionate, intelligent, active, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their high energy requires substantial daily exercise and activities to keep them physically and mentally satisfied.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Lhasa Apso and Yakutian Laika, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Lhasa Apso
Rating: 3/5
Yakutian Laika
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Lhasa Apso
Rating: 3/5
Yakutian Laika
Rating: 4/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Lhasa Apso
Rating: 3/5
Yakutian Laika
Rating: 4/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Lhasa Apso
Rating: 2/5
Yakutian Laika
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Lhasa Apso
Rating: 4/5
Yakutian Laika
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Lhasa Apso Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Lhasa Apsos require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Lhasa Apsos require frequent grooming. This includes brushing several times per week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is recommended.
Yakutian Laika Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Yakutian Laikas need substantial daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and more intense activities like running, swimming, or agility training.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Yakutian Laikas require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Lhasa Apso Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Cherry Eye
- Hip Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- Sebaceous Adenitis
Yakutian Laika Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Dental Disease
- Bloat
- Allergies
Pros & Cons
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
Yakutian Laika
Pros
- Excellent cold weather adaptability
- Versatile working abilities
- Strong protective instincts
- Good with family members
Cons
- High exercise requirements
- Strong prey drive
- Can be stubborn
- Seasonal shedding
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Lhasa Apso and Yakutian Laika, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.