The first thing that comes to our mind while thinking about dogs is loyalty. Dogs have been the best friend of man since prehistoric times.
After more than a thousand years, dogs are still the best friend of man. Over 340 dog breeds are known to man worldwide and are passionately cared for by dog breeders.
Key Takeaways
- Lhasa Apsos are slightly larger, more independent, and more assertive than the affectionate and friendly Shih Tzus.
- Shih Tzus have a shorter, broader faces with large, round eyes, while Lhasa Apsos have a longer muzzle and smaller, almond-shaped eyes.
- Both breeds require regular grooming due to their long, silky coats, but Lhasa Apsos have a heavier and denser coat than the Shih Tzu’s flowing and elegant coat.
Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu
The difference between Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu is in their temperament. While Lhasa Apso has an unpredictable mood, Shih Tzu is a happy puppy who needs a lot of love and attention. They also differ in their exercise needs, with Lhasa Apso having a lot more energy than Shih Tzu. Shih Tzu is a lot more relaxed than Lhasa Apso.
Lhasa Apso is a dog breed that originated in Tibet. They used to be guard dogs in monasteries and palaces in Tibet. Today, they are loyal companies of their owners.
These easy-to-adopt dogs are small in size and can even be cared for by beginners. When their needs are met, they prove to be playful and loving dogs.
Shih Tzu is a lovable dog breed, small in size and perfect as a companion. They are wanderlust dogs who love to follow their masters around and sit on their laps all day.
Some owners also take these dogs to dog sports and train them for agility, rally, and obedience competitions.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of Comparison | Lhasa Apso | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Bigger than Shih Tzu | Smaller than Lhasa Apso |
| Skeletal structure | Smaller bone structure | More solid bone structure compared to Lhasa Apso |
| Feet | Cat-like feet that have a lot of feathers and are round in shape | Padded feet with firm, muscular legs |
| Character | Happy, stubborn, assertive and vary of strangers. | A friendly, happy-go-lucky dog that loves playing and is not vary of strangers. |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Tail | Backward flowing tail resembling a screw with a lot of feathers | A plumed, slightly curved tail that is backward flowing |
What is Lhasa Apso?
Lhasa Apso is an independent and sturdy dog breed that can adapt to any home type. Originally a watchdog, they are still loyal protectors of a house, ready to have their master’s backs.
Though they would not come across as fierce, they become quite fierce when he has to protect his own.
He has irresistible looks; full-grown males are 10 to 11 inches tall, while females are smaller.
Lhasa puppies look cute in their fluffy coats, luscious locks, and sparkling eyes. They are full of energy, always ready to play with their owners.
They mature slowly and remain puppyish till the age of three. Crate training is recommended as housetraining can be difficult sometimes.
His owners have loved him for his ability to reason and his smartness. They tend towards manipulation, thus, to train them properly, consistency is a must.
They have a thick and beautiful coat that is required to be brushed daily and combed. They also require regular grooming, frequent bathing, and early training.
Lhasa Apso bonds with adults better than youngsters or children. They are not exactly kid-friendly dogs as they become impatient around children. They have a lifespan ranging from 10 to 18 years.
What is Shih Tzu?
The word ‘Shih Tzu’ refers to a little lion, though this dog breed is nothing like a lion. Shih Tzu is a small dog with abundant locks and a face that is sure to make one fall in love with this dog.
They originally come from a royal background, being kept by Chinese royal families.
They have a lovable personality with their elegantly tied topknot and their flowing hair that beautifully sweeps the ground. They are lively, friendly, and devoted companions.
The best part about their personality is that they don’t guard, herd, or hunt and love meeting strangers and friends.
They have a rather mysterious history. They are believed to be born out of a crossbreeding of Lhasa Apso with Pekingnese.
They have lived among royalty for generations, as evident from their presence in various paintings and carvings. They were first taken to America in the 20th century.
Being small pups, they are a Toy Group member and highly adaptable. They are both children friendly and apartment-friendly.
Shih Tzu has an interesting nickname, ‘Chrysanthemum Dog’, because their facial hair grows out in all directions. They resemble a flower, with their nose acting as the centre.
These lovable dogs are low on energy and require only a few walks. Their lifespan ranges from 10 to 18 years.
Main Differences Between Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu
- Lhasa Apso is bigger than Shih Tzu. Lhasa apso weighs 12 to 18 pounds, measuring 10-11 inches. On the other hand, Shih Tzu weighs 9 to 16 pounds and has a height of 9-10.5 inches.
- Lhasa Apso has a smaller bone structure compared to Shih Tzu, which has a solid body structure.
- Lhasa Apso has a narrower skull, longer nose, and smaller almond-shaped eyes. On the other hand, Shih Tzu has large, round eyes with a broader skull.
- Lhasa Apso is more stubborn, a bit aggressive, and wary of strangers, whereas Shih Tzu is not aggressive and loves playing with strangers.
- The price of Shih Tzu is more than that of Lhasa Apso.
- https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jvms/66/3/66_3_311/_article/-char/ja/
- https://europepmc.org/article/med/956022
Last Updated : 13 June, 2023
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Piyush Yadav has spent the past 25 years working as a physicist in the local community. He is a physicist passionate about making science more accessible to our readers. He holds a BSc in Natural Sciences and Post Graduate Diploma in Environmental Science. You can read more about him on his bio page.
This is a useful article. I have been thinking of adopting one of these breeds
I hope you find the perfect dog for you
I found this an interesting and useful article
The article overlooks the fact that both breeds can be wonderful pets. I don’t understand the reason to compare them so much
I think it’s an interesting read, but I personally only care about their behavior with kids
I agree, this comparison can put people off from getting a lovely pet
This information is very valuable, it serves to dispel doubts when adopting one of these breeds
It is interesting to know about this, I have both breeds and they certainly differ in their temperament
It is clear that the article emphasizes their differences