Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu
Non-Sporting · Small vs Toy · 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
Shih TzuSmall
An affectionate, playful, outgoing lapdog of Chinese imperial origins — happy as long as it's near you.
Weight: 9–16 lbsLifespan: 10–18 years
Quick take
- • Lhasa Apso is the larger breed at 12–18 lbs (males) vs 9–16 lbs for the Shih Tzu.
- • The Shih Tzu typically lives longer (10–18 years).
- • The Lhasa Apso has higher daily energy needs.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Lhasa Apso | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
Group | Non-Sporting | Toy |
Size | Small | Small |
Origin | Tibet | Tibet |
Height (male) | 10–11" | 9–10.5" |
Height (female) | 10–11" | 9–10.5" |
Weight (male) | 12–18 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Weight (female) | 12–18 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 10–18 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
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) | Very High (5/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | Yes |
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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 Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is an affectionate, playful, outgoing lapdog of Chinese imperial origins — happy as long as it's near you. Originally from Tibet, this small toy breed typically weighs 9–16 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, playful, outgoing.
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Lhasa Apso health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Eye disorders
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Skin issues
- • Kidney disease
Shih Tzu health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Brachycephalic syndrome
- • Eye problems
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Dental issues