SHIH TZU VS. LHASA APSO: CAN YOU TELL THEM APART?

In the last breed comparison blog, we discussed the McNab and the English Shepherd. This time, we will consider the similarities and differences between the Shih Tzu and the Lhasa Apso. Let’s take a look!

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE SHIH TZU

The exact origin of the Shih Tzu breed is unknown, but a dog with similar characteristics appeared in Oriental paintings dating back to 600 CE. The Shih Tzu’s ancestors are traced back to the temples of Tibet, where the Tibetan Lion Dogs were highly regarded as sacred animals. Only the most distinguished citizens were allowed to own them, and any person who harmed or stole a Shih Tzu could be put to death.

The Shih Tzu breed was eventually brought to China, the country credited with the breed’s development, during the seventeenth century CE. During the Manchu Dynasty, Chinese emperors were given Shih Tzus as a token of kindness and good fortune. It became customary for all distinguished Chinese visitors to be presented with a pair.

Although the Shih Tzu faced extinction during the Chinese Revolution, one ruler, Empress Dowager Cixi, had been an avid breeder of the Shih Tzu. It is thought that some of her eunuchs sold some of the palace’s dogs to wealthy countrymen and foreign dignitaries. Although the death of the empress in 1908 ended an era for the Shih Tzu in China, its popularity continued to grow in the Scandinavian countries, Holland, England, and the United States after its introduction in the 1930s.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE LHASA APSO

The Lhasa Apso is one of the oldest breeds in the world. Named after the sacred city of Lhasa, the breed originated 8000 years ago in Tibet, serving as watchdogs in Buddhist monasteries and Tibetan homes. The dogs were talented sentinels thanks to their excellent hearing, keen ability to sense a threat, and sharp, alarming bark.

Lhasa Apsos were considered the living representations of the Tibetan Snow Lion, the mythical guardian of Tibet. There is an old saying in Tibet: “When the snow lion stays in the mountains, it is a lion, but when it comes down to the valley, it becomes a dog.” The Tibetan name for the breed is Apso Seng-Kyi, which loosely translates to “hairy lion dog.” However, it wasn’t until the seventh century CE that the little dogs were specifically developed to appear as lion-like as possible.

Tibetans did not buy or sell Lhasas—these precious dogs could only be received or given as gifts. These little dogs were gifted to dignitaries and leaders worldwide, including China. Therefore, the first Lhasa Apso to come to the United States was likely a gift from the 13th Dalai Lama.

SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES 

A true companion breed from its beginning, the Shih Tzu should exhibit a perpetually friendly, happy, and affectionate nature. Rectangular in proportion, with the length of the body, measured from the point of the forechest to the point of the rump, being just slightly greater than the height at the withers. The body is well-put-together, with sturdy substance and medium bone. The Shih Tzu should appear neither excessively upright nor extremely short. The weight of a male or female is always in proportion to height.

The Lhasa Apso is known for their friendly yet assertive demeanor. They are excellent companions and very good watchdogs with their watchful reign and alerting bark. They can be rather aloof with strangers and less than tolerant of unruly or rude children. Being developed as a watchdog and companion for thousands of years required the Lhasa Apso to cultivate a sense of ownership for his territory and family. This trait can still be found in the breed today, so special care needs to be taken to properly train and socialize the Lhasa Apso to prevent them from developing possession, territorial, and intra-specific (dog-dog) aggression issues. A well-socialized, well-trained Lhasa Apso is a wonderful family dog that can develop the uncanny ability to determine friend from foe. They are intelligent and devoted companions.

CONCLUSION 

Both of these breeds have long histories and are very popular breeds. These dogs tend to make wonderful companions, so they would not be good for families that want larger breeds or are very active. These dogs still need regular training and exercise daily along with a balanced diet to stay happy and healthy, but overall these dogs just want to be with their owners (especially if they can stay in your lap!). 

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Click here for the complete Shih Tzu breed standard. 

Click here for the complete Lhasa Apso breed standard.