Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu are two of the most adorable breeds of dogs. They both are small in size and have an attractive appearance like a teddy bear. People often mix them up because both are nearly similar at first glance.
No wonder anybody can easily be confused about these cute breeds. Especially, when they are in full coat of fur, usually they have double coats of hair which are super silky. Also, it’s hard to separate them if you don’t have much idea about them. Still they have so many differences between them.
In this guide, we will provide every detail about these two breeds like differences, similarities, and much more.
What is the difference between Lhasa Apso Vs Shih Tzu?
As far as we learn about Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu, they are ancient breeds. Thousand years ago, they were found in Tebbet. Lhasa Apsos are basically guardian breeds of Shih Tzus that’s why they look almost the same. But they still have so many differences in their origins, histories, health conditions, and lifestyles. Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso both are small in size but their life expectancy are a little different. Usually, Lhasa Apsos live almost 12 to 15 years whereas Shih Tzus live 10 to 18 years maximum.
Almost thousand years ago the Buddhist monks used Lhasa Apsos as alarm dogs in the monasteries. These monasteries were situated in the high mountains in the Himalaya. Lhasa Apsos are good companions and very good at barking so they are also known as bark lion sentinel dogs. However, their appearance is pretty similar to the lion’s, especially their face. On the other hand, Shih Tzus are crossbreeds which are a combination of Lhasa Apso and Pekingese. They are cute little sturdy dogs with an affectionate appearance. Also, Shih Tzus are considered as symbols of royalty because they were brought to China from Tibbet as a gift for the Chinese emperor.
Usually, Shih Tzus have beautiful large brown eyes and their head shapes are owl-head and lion-head. Although both are small size dogs, they are a little different in size and weight. Lhasa Apsos stand about 9.8 inches (25 cm) and their weight is usually 5 to 8 kg. And Shih Tzus are almost 10.5 inches (26.7 cm) and their weight is probably 4 to 7 kg.
What are the similarities between Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu?
Both breeds have lots of similarities besides differences. Following our earlier discussion, Lhasa Apsos are the parent breed of Shih Tzu so they have almost the same looks and body shapes. These both breeds are cute and they have soft silky long double coats. Also, their shades are almost the same such as white, gold and white, black, tan, red, cream, blue and white, etc.
If you have an untrained eye you can’t easily separate them from one another as they both have rectangular body shapes. They can easily grab the attention of anyone with their affectionate appearance. Also, Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso both have lion faces and both can bark well.
Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu both breeds are good companions. Both breeds can easily adjust in your apartment as they are homely dogs. However, they need moderate exercise daily. You can go out with them for a walk or if you are too busy then they can use your apartment as a track field. Daily playtime is good for their health. However, they both have some similar health issues like heart disease, eye issues, ear issues, and hip dysplasia.
Which is better, Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu?
The main difference between Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu is their character and personality. But you are gonna love them both because of their cute little size and adorable appearance. Usually, both breeds are active and playful apartment dogs. Lhasa Apsos are friendly, happy, cherished, and safe for strangers. Alongside, Shih Tzus are friendly, playful, outgoing, affectionate, trustworthy, and they are also safe for strangers.
It’s hard to tell which one is better between these two cute little breeds of dogs. As they both are fancy looking dogs and they are similar to each other it doesn’t matter which one you should choose. They both can give you a good companion and surely you will be happy with them.
Conclusion
Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu both need daily grooming as they have heavy long double coats of fur. It’s mandatory to keep them clean and bathe them every two weeks. Their long double coats can easily get dirty and dander can cause allergies. As they both breeds have sensitive health issues and they are hypoallergenic so you have to be extra careful to them. Also, you have to brush them daily to keep their style.
Considering their health issues and stylish look it’s better to trim them once or twice a month. And trimming their nails and cleaning their ears once a week can benefitted them to stay active and healthy.
