West Highland White Terrier vs Lhasa Apso
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Lhasa Apso: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Lhasa Apso: Independent0.4
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Lhasa Apso: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Lhasa Apso3/5
Good with Other Dogs
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Lhasa Apso3/5
Good with Strangers
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Lhasa Apso3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
West Highland White Terrier
Craniomandibular Osteopathy: Jaw bone growth
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Addison's Disease: Hormone deficiency
White Shaker Syndrome: Tremor condition
Pulmonary Fibrosis: Lung tissue scarring
Skin Allergies: Dermatological issues
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
Pros & Cons Comparison
West Highland White Terrier
Pros
Adaptable to different living situations
Good with families
Low-shedding coat
Alert watchdog
Cons
Can be stubborn
Regular grooming required
May chase small animals
Can be vocal
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
West Highland White Terrier Fun Fact
Their white coat was specifically bred after a farmer accidentally shot his reddish-brown terrier, mistaking it for a fox!
Lhasa Apso Fun Fact
Lhasa Apsos were considered so sacred in Tibet that they could never be sold, only given as gifts.
Heritage & Purpose
West Highland White Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Scotland during the 1800s, these terriers were bred to hunt rats, foxes, and other vermin in the Scottish Highlands, with their white coat making them easily distinguishable from prey.
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.
Special Considerations
West Highland White Terrier
Regular grooming is essential for their double coat. They need consistent training to manage terrier stubbornness and require proper socialization to prevent small animal chasing.
Lhasa Apso
Regular grooming essential for coat maintenance. Moderate exercise needs but requires consistent training. Watch for eye and joint health issues throughout life.