Lhasa Apso vs Chinese Shar-Pei

Non-Sporting · Small vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Chinese Shar-Pei is the larger breed at 45–60 lbs (males) vs 12–18 lbs for the Lhasa Apso.
  • The Lhasa Apso typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Lhasa Apso sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitLhasa ApsoChinese Shar-Pei
Group
Non-SportingNon-Sporting
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
TibetChina
Height (male)
10–11"18–20"
Height (female)
10–11"18–20"
Weight (male)
12–18 lbs45–60 lbs
Weight (female)
12–18 lbs45–60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years8–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longshort
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 Chinese Shar-Pei

The Chinese Shar-Pei is a loyal, calm, independent wrinkly Chinese guardian — hippopotamus-faced ancient farm and palace dog. Originally from China, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–60 lbs and lives 8–12 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, calm, independent.

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Lhasa Apso health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Chinese Shar-Pei health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Skin issues
  • Allergies