Lhasa Apso
A small, long-coated guardian of Tibetan monasteries, the Lhasa Apso is proud, watchful and very attached to its family.
Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu
Side by side
| Trait | Lhasa Apso | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Companion and toy dogs | Companion and toy dogs |
| Size | Small | Small |
| Weight | 5–8 kg | 4.5–8 kg |
| Height at withers | 23–28 cm | 20–27 cm |
| Life expectancy | 12–15 years | 10–16 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Yes | Yes |
Key differences
On paper, these two breeds are very close: none of the gaps in size, life expectancy or ratings is large enough to stand out.
Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.
Which one is right for you?
A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.
- Apartment living
- Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
- Family with children
- Shih Tzu is the better fitBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Lhasa Apso is the better fitBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Both are similarBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
Shih Tzu
Gentle, cuddly and full of charm, the Shih Tzu is a calm little companion dog, perfect for apartments but sensitive to heat.