Lhasa Apso vs Shiba Inu
Non-Sporting · Small vs Non-Sporting · Small
Lhasa ApsoSmall
A confident, smart, comical Tibetan monastery sentinel — small but feels like a big dog inside.
Weight: 12–18 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Shiba InuSmall
An alert, active, attentive small Spitz — Japan's most popular national dog and the original 'doge' meme.
Weight: 23 lbsLifespan: 13–16 years
Quick take
- • Shiba Inu is the larger breed at 23 lbs (males) vs 12–18 lbs for the Lhasa Apso.
- • The Shiba Inu typically lives longer (13–16 years).
- • The Shiba Inu has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Lhasa Apso sheds less.
- • The Lhasa Apso is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Lhasa Apso | Shiba Inu |
|---|---|---|
Group | Non-Sporting | Non-Sporting |
Size | Small | Small |
Origin | Tibet | Japan |
Height (male) | 10–11" | 14.5–16.5" |
Height (female) | 10–11" | 13.5–15.5" |
Weight (male) | 12–18 lbs | 23 lbs |
Weight (female) | 12–18 lbs | 17 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 13–16 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
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) | Low (2/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | medium |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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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 Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is an alert, active, attentive small Spitz — Japan's most popular national dog and the original 'doge' meme. Originally from Japan, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 23 lbs and lives 13–16 years. Breeders describe them as alert, active, attentive.
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Lhasa Apso health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Eye disorders
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Skin issues
- • Kidney disease
Shiba Inu health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Allergies