Lhasa Apso vs Pomeranian

Non-Sporting · Small vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Lhasa Apso is the larger breed at 12–18 lbs (males) vs 3–7 lbs for the Pomeranian.
  • The Pomeranian typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Pomeranian has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Lhasa Apso sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitLhasa ApsoPomeranian
Group
Non-SportingToy
Size
SmallToy
Origin
TibetGermany
Height (male)
10–11"6–7"
Height (female)
10–11"6–7"
Weight (male)
12–18 lbs3–7 lbs
Weight (female)
12–18 lbs3–7 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)High (4/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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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 Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a bold, lively, inquisitive fluffy spitz — descended from sled dogs, now under 10 lbs of pure attitude. Originally from Germany, this toy toy breed typically weighs 3–7 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as bold, lively, inquisitive.

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Lhasa Apso health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Pomeranian health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Heart disease
  • Dental issues