Lhasa Apso vs Miniature Schnauzer

Non-Sporting · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Miniature Schnauzer is the larger breed at 11–20 lbs (males) vs 12–18 lbs for the Lhasa Apso.
  • The Miniature Schnauzer has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Miniature Schnauzer is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitLhasa ApsoMiniature Schnauzer
Group
Non-SportingTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
TibetGermany
Height (male)
10–11"12–14"
Height (female)
10–11"12–14"
Weight (male)
12–18 lbs11–20 lbs
Weight (female)
12–18 lbs11–20 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is a confident, smart, comical Tibetan monastery sentinel — small but feels like a big dog inside. Originally from Tibet, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 12–18 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, smart, comical.

About the Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is a friendly, smart, obedient ratter — the eyebrowed, bearded German farm dog scaled down for family life. Originally from Germany, this small terrier breed typically weighs 11–20 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, smart, obedient.

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Lhasa Apso health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Eye disorders
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Skin issues
  • Kidney disease

Miniature Schnauzer health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Pancreatitis
  • Diabetes
  • Bladder stones
  • Cataracts