Lhasa Apso vs. Shih Tzu: Which Small Lapdog Is Right for You?

Lhasa Apsos are an ancient dog breed. According to the American Lhasa Apso Club, the Lhasa Apso originated in Tibet around 800 BCE. They were bred as guardians for palaces and Buddhist monasteries. 

They served as indoor sentinels, alerting monks and nobles to visitors with their keen hearing and loud bark. The dogs eventually made their way to the U.S. in the 1930s.

The Shih Tzu is another ancient breed, with roots in China. But, like the Lhasa Apso, the breed as we know it today was developed in Tibet. Lhasa Apsos were even used in the strategic breeding that created the modern-day Shih Tzu dog, according to the American Shih Tzu Club.

In Tibet, Shih Tzu were cherished as companion dogs for royalty. They came to the U.S. in the 1940s.

Lhasa Apsos and Shih Tzu look very similar. Their sizes are nearly identical (Lhasa Apsos stand 10–11 inches tall and weigh 12–18 pounds, while Shih Tzu are 9–10.5 inches tall and weigh 9–16 pounds), and both have long, straight coats that come in a wide variety of colors.  

But there are a couple of reliable ways to tell them apart.

• Lhasa Apsos have a muzzle that’s slightly longer than the squished-faced Shih Tzu.
• The Shih Tzu’s head is a bit more rounded than the Lhasa Apso’s.

While both breeds are affectionate, their personalities reflect their different roles in history.

Lhasa Apsos tend to be confident, independent thinkers. They often form strong bonds with their families but may be more reserved with strangers. 

This breed was developed to make decisions on their own, so patience and consistency go a long way in training. Lhasa Apso dogs may also bark at strange sounds and new people, so pet parents might need to teach them to quiet down.

Shih Tzu are typically outgoing, friendly, and people-focused. They thrive on companionship and often enjoy meeting new people. 

Many Shih Tzu are happiest when they’re close to their humans, whether that’s cuddling on the couch or following you from room to room (even to the bathroom!). Because of this, they might experience separation anxiety if left alone for too long.

Neither breed requires intense daily exercise, but regular activity is still important for their physical and mental well-being.

Both pups are happy with a couple of short daily walks and indoor play sessions. They’ll enjoy games of fetch, regular (but short!) training sessions, and puzzle toys that challenge their brains.

Lhasa Apsos and Shih Tzu are both well-suited for apartments or smaller homes, thanks to their small size and not-too-demanding exercise needs. 

But when they are out and about, be alert for signs your dog is overheating. Both breeds have relatively flat faces, which can make them struggle to cool themselves in hot weather. 

Restrict exercise in extreme temperatures and always make sure your pup has access to fresh, cool water and AC. Using a harness instead of clipping a leash to their collar can also help them breathe easier on walks. 

Grooming is a major commitment for both Lhasa Apsos and Shih Tzu. Both breeds have long coats that need daily care. 

Bathe your dog once a month or so with a gentle dog shampoo and conditioner.

Between baths, brush your dog every day using a pin brush, slicker brush, and/or comb to work out tangles and prevent matting. Having a detangling spray on hand can be helpful.

To make grooming a little easier, many pet parents of Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apsos opt to trim their dog’s fur into a shorter hairdo. This often takes your brushing routine from a daily chore to a twice-a-week affair. 

No matter how long you keep their hair, pet parents also need to schedule time for grooming tasks like:

• Brushing their dog’s teeth every day with a dog-safe toothpaste and toothbrush

• Trimming their nails (about every month or so)

• Checking their big eyes for signs of redness, discharge, or tear stains, and wiping the fur around their eyes as needed

Lhasa Apsos and Shih Tzu are dogs with long lifespans, both often living well into their teenage years. Both can experience similar health issues during their long life, including: 

• Brachycephalic airway syndrome: This condition is caused by the flat-faced dogs’ anatomy and makes it difficult for Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apsos to breathe. 
• Eye problems: Common problems include dry eye, cherry eye, cataracts, and glaucoma.
• Patellar luxation: A condition where the kneecap slips out of place. Luxating patella is a common problem in small dog breeds, and treatment depends on severity. 
• Dental disease: Another common problem in small dogs like the Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso, the best prevention is daily toothbrushing and regular veterinary exams. 

Shih Tzu can also experience liver shunts, where toxins aren’t properly removed from the bloodstream. Lhasa Apsos are susceptible to renal dysplasia, which can lead to kidney failure. 

For both breeds, working with a veterinarian on routine preventive care, prioritizing proper nutrition, and keeping your dog at a healthy weight can support a long, healthy life.

Both Lhasa Apsos and Shih Tzu can make wonderful companions, and they have more in common than many other dog breeds. The “best” choice largely comes down to your personal preference, as both pups can make great family dogs and are adaptable to many different living environments.