Which dog breed would you choose, a Shih Tzu or a Lhasa Apso? They’re both cute as heck, but which one would be more suited to your lifestyle? Go through the article to know comparison between Shih Tzus and Lhasa Apsos.
Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Appearance
Lhasa Apsos and Shih Tzus look very different from one another. Unlike Shih Tzus, whose shorter coats do not typically hide their eyes, Lhasa Apsos’ larger coat often obscures their eyes. The Shih Tzu’s snout is larger and more noticeable than the Lhasa Apso’s. In addition, unlike the gregarious and extroverted Shih Tzu, the Lhasa Apso tends to be quiet and reclusive.
Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Nose
The Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu have distinctively different noses. The Shih Tzu’s nose is noticeably longer than that of the Lhasa Apso. This is because, unlike the Shih Tzu, the Lhasa Apso is a member of the Tibetan Terrier family. Because of their history as guard dogs in Tibet, the Lhasa Apso benefits greatly from the longer nose that enhances its sense of smell.
Lhasa Apsos and Shih Tzus have noticeably distinct nose hair growth patterns. Two tufts of hair extend from the Lhasa Apso’s nostrils, earning the breed the nickname “Tusked Nose.” In harsh winter conditions, these tufts shield the dog’s snout from falling snow and other debris. The Shih Tzu has no such hair on its nose; instead, its black nose is completely hairless.
These dogs have a reputation for being devoted and loving companions. On the other side, the Lhasa Apso is less outgoing and more confident than the Shih Tzu. Their history as Tibetan watchdogs, where they were expected to bark at the first indication of trouble, may account for this trait. The Sh
Shih Tzu vs Lhasa Apso hair size
The Lhasa Apso and the Shih Tzu are similar in that they both have luxurious, long hair. Yet, the Lhasa Apso’s coat is more thicker and fuller than that of the Shih Tzu. The Lhasa Apso is a little bit bigger than a Shih Tzu. These dog breeds have a reputation for being loving and devoted to their owners. The Shih Tzu, in contrast to the reserved Lhasa Apso, is a lot of fun to be around.
Shih Tzu vs Lhasa Apso Temperament
The temperaments of Shih Tzus and Lhasa Apsos are poles apart. Lhasa Apsos are more self-reliant than Shih Tzus, but Shih Tzus are loving and needy. Upon meeting a new person, a Lhasa may be suspicious, but a Shih Tzu is likely to be friendly. Lhasas are quieter than the more gregarious Shih Tzu. The final deciding factor is the temperament of the dog, thus meeting both types is necessary.
Lhasa apso vs Shih tzu height and weight
The Lhasa Apso and the Shih Tzu are two examples of popular little dog breeds. Both are long-haired and are well-known for their warmth and reliability as companion animals. But what about their stature and body mass index?
Shih Tzu vs Lhasa Apso comparison and difference
Below we have detailed comparison on Shih Tzu vs Lhasa Apso in table format.
| Characteristic | Lhasa Apso | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Tibet | Tibet |
| Size | Small | Small |
| Weight | 12-18 lbs | 9-16 lbs |
| Height | 10-11 in | 9-10.5 in |
| Life expectancy | 12-15 yrs | 10-18 yrs |
| Coat type | Long, thick, straight | Long, dense, wavy |
| Coat color | Various | Various |
| Temperament | Confident, independent, aloof | Affectionate, outgoing, playful |
| Trainability | Stubborn, may require patience | Intelligent, quick learners |
| Exercise needs | Moderate | Low |
| Grooming needs | High | High |
| Health concerns | Patellar luxation, eye problems | Brachycephalic syndrome, eye problems |
| Good for apartments | Yes | Yes |
| Good for families | Yes | Yes |
The nose is the defining characteristic of the Shih Tzu and the Lhasa Apso. Whereas Lhasa Apsos have long, jutting noses, Shih Tzus have short, snub noses. Considering this when deciding on a breed is highly recommended.
The hair of these two breeds is a major distinction between them. While the Shih Tzu’s long, smooth hair necessitates daily brushing, the Lhasa Apso’s shorter, rougher coat requires less maintenance.
Last but not least, while choosing between a Shih Tzu and a Lhasa Apso, you should think about the dog’s temperament. When compared to Lhasa Apsos, Shih Tzus tend to be more docile and affectionate pets. I hope you like reading on Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu nose, hair and temperament comparison.