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Difference Between Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu

Although Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu look much similar, they originated in two different countries. However, it is still possible for an unfamiliar person to identify these two as one or a Shih Tzu as a Lhasa Apso. Therefore, it is very important to know the differences between these two adorable dog breeds. This article intends to explore those important differences and present them.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu is a small dog breed originated in china with a unique appearance that encompasses long and silky hairs. They have a small muzzle with large, dark, and deep eyes. Their coat is a double-layered one, and the outer coat is soft and long. They have drooping ears, which are not visible as their long silk hairs cover them. In addition, the heavy presence of long silky hair cover the tail, however, it is curled over the back. Daily combing and grooming is necessary to maintain their fast growing coat. Shih Tzus do not grow beyond 26.7 centimetres at withers, and their ideal weight is 4.5 to 7.3 kilograms. However, they look slightly longer to their height. Their front legs are straight and hind legs are muscular. In addition, they have a broad and wide chest, and the head is larger compared to the body size and always looking forwards or upwards. Shih Tzus have variety of colour coats including shading red, white, and gold colours. However, since they are brachycephalic, they are prone to many respiratory diseases.

Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apso are small longhaired non sporting dogs originated in Tibet. The simple meaning of the name Lhasa Apso is longhaired Tibetan dog. They are about 27.3 centimetres tall at withers, and have 5 to 7 kilograms of weight. Lhasa Apsos have dark brown eyes and a black nose. The texture of their coat is heavy, straight, and hard. In addition, their fur is neither silky nor woolly, but it is very dense. However, there is a range of colourations of coats including shadings of black, white, gold, and red colours. They are very alert, and have a keen sense with a good hearing, and they can bark loudly. Moreover, they are aggressive towards strangers, but homebound to the owner family.

What is the difference between Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso?

· Shih Tzu originated in China, while Lhasa Apso did originate in Tibet.

· Lhasa Apso is very slightly larger than Shih Tzu. However, Shih Tzu has a more solid body than Lhasa Apso.

· Lhasa Apso has a longer nose, narrower skull, and smaller eyes compared to Shih Tzu’s broader skull, shorter nose, and larger round eyes.

· Lhasa Apso has a rough double coat, whereas Shih Tzu has a long, silky, and smooth double fur coat.

· Shih Tzu does not get aggressive towards strangers and a happy go lucky dog. However, Lhasa Apso is aggressive towards strangers.

· Shih Tzus dogs are more prone to respiratory diseases more than Lhasa Apso dogs.