Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu

The Lhasa Apso is a small breed while the Shih Tzu is toy. Both breeds make loyal companions but suit different lifestyles.

Lhasa Apso

Trait

Shih Tzu

Small

Size

Toy

12–18 lbs

Weight (Male)

9–16 lbs

12–18 lbs

Weight (Female)

9–16 lbs

10–11″

Height (Male)

9–10.5″

12–15 yrs

Lifespan

10–18 yrs

Long double coat

Coat Type

Long double coat

Non-Sporting

AKC Group

Toy

Tibet

Origin

China/Tibet

Temperament & Care Ratings

Low

Energy Level

Low

Intensive

Grooming Needs

Intensive

Light

Shedding

Minimal

Moderate

Trainability

Moderate

Good with Children

Good

Moderate

Good with Dogs

Good

Frequent

Barking Level

Moderate

Common Health Issues

Lhasa Apso

Patellar luxation
Eye problems
Kidney disease
Allergies

Shih Tzu

Brachycephalic syndrome
Patellar luxation
Eye problems
Dental disease

Learn More

Lhasa Apso Breed Profile

Complete guide to the Lhasa Apso — size, temperament, health, and care.

Shih Tzu Breed Profile

Complete guide to the Shih Tzu — size, temperament, health, and care.

← Compare more breeds

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu

The Lhasa Apso is a small breed while the Shih Tzu is toy. Both breeds make loyal companions but suit different lifestyles.

Lhasa Apso

Trait

Shih Tzu

Small

Size

Toy

12–18 lbs

Weight (Male)

9–16 lbs

12–18 lbs

Weight (Female)

9–16 lbs

10–11″

Height (Male)

9–10.5″

12–15 yrs

Lifespan

10–18 yrs

Long double coat

Coat Type

Long double coat

Non-Sporting

AKC Group

Toy

Tibet

Origin

China/Tibet

Temperament & Care Ratings

Low

Energy Level

Low

Intensive

Grooming Needs

Intensive

Light

Shedding

Minimal

Moderate

Trainability

Moderate

Good with Children

Good

Moderate

Good with Dogs

Good

Frequent

Barking Level

Moderate

Common Health Issues

Lhasa Apso

Patellar luxation
Eye problems
Kidney disease
Allergies

Shih Tzu

Brachycephalic syndrome
Patellar luxation
Eye problems
Dental disease

Learn More

Lhasa Apso Breed Profile

Complete guide to the Lhasa Apso — size, temperament, health, and care.

Shih Tzu Breed Profile

Complete guide to the Shih Tzu — size, temperament, health, and care.

← Compare more breeds