Shih Tzu vs Lhasa Apso
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Shih Tzu
Toy Group
Lhasa Apso
Non-Sporting Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Shih Tzu Overview
Shih Tzus captivate with their luxurious flowing double coat and distinctive chrysanthemum-like face, where the hair grows upward on the nose. These compact, sturdy dogs possess a proud bearing with their head held high, level back, and plumed tail carried over their back. Their warm, trusting eyes and sweet expression perfectly match their affectionate and outgoing personality.
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.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Shih Tzus are less energetic than Lhasa Apsos, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Shih Tzus require more grooming attention compared to Lhasa Apsos.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Shih Tzus tend to be more reserved with strangers than Lhasa Apsos.
- Trainability: Lhasa Apsos may be slightly easier to train due to their Lhasa Apso's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Lhasa Apsos adapt better to apartment living, while Shih Tzus typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Shih Tzu | Lhasa Apso |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Toy | Toy |
| Life Expectancy | 10-18 years | 12-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Toy Group | Non-Sporting Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Shih Tzu | Lhasa Apso |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 9-11 inches 23-27 cm | 10-11 inches 25-28 cm |
| Weight | 9-16 lbs 4-7 kg | 12-18 lbs 5-8 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Infrequent | Infrequent |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Shih Tzu | Lhasa Apso |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Affectionate, Playful, Outgoing | Confident, Smart, Comical |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Shih Tzu | Lhasa Apso |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Shih Tzu Temperament
The Shih Tzu is known for being affectionate, playful, outgoing, making them excellent family dogs. 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.
Lhasa Apso Temperament
The Lhasa Apso is characterized by being confident, smart, comical, which makes them better for households without small children. 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 moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso, 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
Shih Tzu
Rating: 5/5
Lhasa Apso
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Shih Tzu
Rating: 5/5
Lhasa Apso
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Shih Tzu
Rating: 3/5
Lhasa Apso
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Shih Tzu
Rating: 2/5
Lhasa Apso
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Shih Tzu
Rating: 5/5
Lhasa Apso
Rating: 4/5
Care & Maintenance
Shih Tzu Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Shih Tzus 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, Shih Tzus require frequent grooming. This includes brushing several times per week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is recommended.
Lhasa Apso Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Lhasa Apsos need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Lhasa Apsos require significant grooming attention. This includes brushing several times per week to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is typically necessary.
Health & Lifespan
Shih Tzu Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Brachycephalic Syndrome
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Ear Infections
- Dental Issues
Lhasa Apso Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Cherry Eye
- Hip Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- Sebaceous Adenitis
Pros & Cons
Shih Tzu
Pros
- Excellent companion dog
- Good with children
- Adaptable to small spaces
- Low exercise needs
- Affectionate personality
Cons
- High grooming requirements
- Prone to health issues
- Can be stubborn
- Temperature sensitive
- Difficult to housebreak
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
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.