The Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu are two small, fluffy dog breeds that often get mistaken for each other because of their long coats and cute looks. In fact, Shih Tzu is believed to have originated from a mix of the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese breeds.
What is the difference between Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu? Lhasa Apsos have a heavy, straight, and hard coat, while Shih Tzus have a soft, luxurious, and flowing coat.
Key Areas Covered
1. Lhasa Apso
– Facts, Appearance, and Behavior
2. Shih Tzu
– Facts, Appearance, and Behavior
3. Similarities Between Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu
– Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu
– Comparison of Key Differences
5. FAQ: Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu
– Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Key Terms
Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, Dogs
Lhasa Apso – Facts, Appearance, and Behavior
The Lhasa Apso is a small dog breed that originally comes from Tibet. It was bred over a thousand years ago to be a watchdog inside palaces and monasteries in the Himalayas. Although this dog is small in size (about 10 inches tall), it has sharp hearing and an alert nature. It has a long, thick coat that comes in many colors, like black, golden, honey, or white, and its tail curls over its back. The Lhasa Apso breed has dark eyes, a black nose, and pendant ears.
These dogs are smart and independent. They enjoy mental challenges more than repetitive training and like doing things on their own terms. They don’t need a lot of space, but they love to zoom around the house or go for brisk walks. They’re generally healthy and can live a long life. Their average life expectancy is 12 to 15 years. However, some may face health issues like kidney problems, eye conditions, or joint troubles.
Shih Tzu – Facts, Appearance, and Behavior
The Shih Tzu is a small, lovable dog that was originally bred in Tibet. It is believed to come from a mix of the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese breeds. The name “Shih Tzu” means “lion” in Chinese, as these dogs were bred to look like the lions in traditional Chinese art. They usually weigh between 9 to 16 pounds and stand about 8 to 11 inches tall. Shih Tzus have soft, long double coats, floppy ears, big dark eyes, and a curled tail. Their coats can be any color, but white with gray is common. Because of their thick fur and short snouts, they don’t do well in hot weather or swimming.
They are known for being friendly and affectionate, which makes them great indoor pets. Shih Tzus don’t need much exercise — just short daily walks and some playtime inside. However, they do need regular grooming. Their long hair tangles easily, so brushing every few days is important, along with regular baths, nail trimming, and cleaning around the eyes. Some owners prefer to give them a “puppy trim” to make grooming easier. Shih Tzus are generally healthy and can live between 10 to 18 years.
Similarities Between Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu
- Both are small dog breeds with long, flowing coats.
- They need regular grooming to prevent tangles and keep their coats healthy.
- Both have floppy ears and a tail that curls over their back.
- Both are good apartment pets and need only moderate daily exercise.
- Each breed has a strong personality and may bark to alert you.
- They are long-lived breeds.
Difference Between Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu
Definition
- Lhasa Apso is a small dog breed from Tibet, originally used as a monastery watchdog, whereas Shih Tzu is a small, friendly toy dog breed from China, with a long flowing coat and loving nature.
Nature
- Shih Tzu belongs to the Toy Group, while the Lhasa Apso is part of the Non-Sporting Group.
Size
- Lhasa Apsos stand at 10–11 inches tall and weigh 12–18 pounds, whereas Shih Tzus stand at 9–10.5 inches and weigh 9–16 pounds.
Coat
- Lhasa Apsos have a heavy, straight, and hard coat, while Shih Tzus have a soft, luxurious, and flowing coat.
Color
- Lhasa Apso coats come in gold, white, black, black and tan, red, and cream. Meanwhile, Shih Tzus come in a wider range of colors, including black, gold, liver, brindle, silver, blue, and many two-tone variations.
Personality
- Shih Tzus are friendly, affectionate, and trusting, as they were bred to be companions. Lhasa Apsos are happy but more cautious and watchful around strangers because they were bred as sentinel dogs.
Training
- Lhasa Apsos are smart and respond well to consistent, firm training, whereas Shih Tzus are eager to please and do their best with positive reinforcement and gentle praise.
Life Expectancy
- Lhasa Apso has an average life expectancy of 12 to 15 years, while Shih Tzu has an average life expectancy of 10 to 18 years.
Health
- Lhasa Apsos may develop kidney problems, dry eye, and joint issues, while Shih Tzus are prone to knee problems, cataracts, and eye inflammation.
FAQ: Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu
1. How can I tell if my dog is a Shih Tzu or Lhasa Apso?
You can tell by looking at their face, body, and coat. Lhasa Apsos have a longer nose, a more serious expression, and a heavier, straighter coat. They are also slightly longer-bodied and more solid than Shih Tzus.
2. Is a Shih Tzu part of Lhasa Apso?
No, a Shih Tzu is not part of a Lhasa Apso, but they are closely related. The Shih Tzu was likely developed by crossing the Lhasa Apso with the Pekingese in ancient China.
3. What two dogs make a Lhasa Apso?
The Lhasa Apso is an ancient breed and was not created by crossing two specific modern dog breeds. Instead, it originated naturally in Tibet over a thousand years ago.
4. What is the life expectancy for a Shih Tzu?
The life expectancy of a Shih Tzu is typically between 10 to 18 years. With good care, a healthy diet, regular vet checkups, and proper grooming, many Shih Tzus can live well into their late teens.
Reference:
1. “Lhasa Apso.” AKC (American Kennel Club).
2. “Shih Tzu.” AKC (American Kennel Club).
Image Courtesy:
1. “Lhasaapso” By Lhasaapso – Own work (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Shih-Tzu” By Melanie Dullinger – White Magic Kennels <[email protected]> – Own work (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
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