Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu
Complete side-by-side comparison of Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu. Compare temperament, size, lifespan, cost, and care requirements.
Lhasa Apso
Size
Small (10-25 lbs)
Lifespan
12-15 years
Price
$1,000-$2,500
Shih Tzu
Size
Small (10-25 lbs)
Lifespan
10-18 years
Price
$1,000-$2,500
Quick Verdict
Shih Tzu wins this comparison!
Shih Tzu edges out Lhasa Apso in our comparison, scoring better in 2 of 6 key categories. However, both are excellent breeds and the best choice depends on your specific lifestyle and needs.
Physical Characteristics
| Attribute | Lhasa Apso | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Size Category | Small (10-25 lbs) | Small (10-25 lbs) |
| Height | 10-11" | 9-11" |
| Weight | 12-18 lbs | 9-16 lbs |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years | 10-18 years |
| Coat Type | Long | Double |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | Yes |
Temperament & Behavior
| Attribute | Lhasa Apso | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Affection Level | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Good with Children | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Good with Other Dogs | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Good with Strangers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Playfulness | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Protectiveness | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Trainability | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Energy Level | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Barking Level | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Intelligence | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Care Requirements
| Attribute | Lhasa Apso | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Shedding Level | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Grooming Needs | High - Daily | High - Daily |
| Exercise (min/day) | 20 min | 20 min |
| Mental Stimulation | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Drooling Level | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Living Conditions
| Attribute | Lhasa Apso | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment Friendly | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Good for Beginners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Tolerates Being Alone | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Cold Weather | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Hot Weather | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Cost Comparison
| Cost Factor | Lhasa Apso | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,000-$2,500 | $1,000-$2,500 |
| Annual Cost | $1,200/year | $1,200/year |
Health Considerations
Lhasa Apso
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Generally healthy breed with no major genetic issues.
Shih Tzu
Lifespan: 10-18 years
Generally healthy breed with no major genetic issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu better for families?
Shih Tzu is generally better for families, scoring 4/5 for child-friendliness compared to 3/5 for Lhasa Apso. However, both breeds can make great family pets with proper training and socialization.
Which costs more to own, a Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu?
A Shih Tzu costs approximately $1200/year while a Lhasa Apso costs about $1200/year. Both cost about the same to own.
Do Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu live longer?
On average, both breeds have similar lifespans of about 11.0 years.
Compare Different Breeds
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