Dog breed comparison
Shih Tzu vs Lhasa Apso
How the two compare on size, temperament, training, grooming and health, and which suits your home.
At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Shih Tzu | Lhasa Apso |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Companion Dogs | Companion Dogs |
| Size | Small | Small |
| Height | 9 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder | 9 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder |
| Weight | 9 to 16 pounds | 12 to 15 pounds |
| Life span | 10 to 16 years | 12 to 15 years |
| Energy | ||
| Exercise needs | ||
| Easy to train | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Friendly with strangers | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Easy to groom | ||
| Barking | ||
| Apartment living | ||
| First-time owners | ||
| Copes alone | ||
| Drooling | ||
| General health |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Friendly with strangers
The Shih Tzu is friendlier with strangers than the Lhasa Apso.
Energy
The Lhasa Apso has more energy than the Shih Tzu.
Barking
The Lhasa Apso barks more than the Shih Tzu.
Exercise needs
The Lhasa Apso needs more exercise than the Shih Tzu.
Good with other dogs
The Shih Tzu gets on better with other dogs than the Lhasa Apso.
Copes alone
The Lhasa Apso copes better when left alone than the Shih Tzu.
Which to choose
Shih Tzu or Lhasa Apso?
Choose the Shih Tzu if…
- You have lots of visitors (it is friendlier with strangers)
- You’d like a calmer pet (it is calmer)
- You want a dog that barks less
- You have less time for long walks (it needs less exercise)
Choose the Lhasa Apso if…
- You want a more watchful dog (it is more reserved with strangers)
- You want an active, playful companion (it has more energy)
- You’re out walking, running or hiking most days (it needs more exercise)
- You want a dog that copes better when left alone
Questions.
Which is easier to train, the Shih Tzu or the Lhasa Apso?
They’re similarly easy to train. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Shih Tzu or the Lhasa Apso?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
They shed about the same amount. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
