• Hungarian Language
  • English Language

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) Comparison - Dog breed selector: Lion Dog or Chrysanthemum Dog or Greater Indian Spitz? Find the right dog for you

"Find similarities and differences between Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater)" Compare Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu. Which is better: Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu or Indian Spitz (Greater)?
 
 
 
Name Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu Indian Spitz (Greater)
OriginsTibet flagTibet China flagChina India flagIndia
Group Companion Dogs Companion Dogs Companion Dogs
Popularity Rank7720403
Reviews4192
User Ratings

Common Names & Aliases
Compare alternative names and nicknames used for Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater) breeds.
Lion Dog
Lhasa
Chrysanthemum Dog
Chinese Lion Dog
Greater Indian Spitz
Breed Classification
How do breed classifications differ between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater)? Compare their breeding categories.
Purebred Purebred Purebred

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) Size and Weight Comparison

Size Classification
Compare size differences between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which breed is the largest?
Small Small Medium
Weight Statistics
How do weights compare between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater)? Compare adult weight ranges.
13-15 pounds (5.9-6.8 kg) 9–16 pounds (4-7 kg) 26–44 pounds (12–20 kg)
Average Weight
Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?
14 pounds (5.9-6.8 kg) 9–16 pounds (5.5 kg) 35 pounds (16 kg)
Height
Which is taller, Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu or Indian Spitz (Greater)? Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) height comparison:
10-11 inches (25-28 cm) 8-11 inches (20-28 cm) 14–18 inches (35–45 cm)
Average Height
Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?
10.5 inches (26.5 cm) 9.5 inches (24 cm) 16 inches (40 cm)

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) Price and Availability Comparison

Price Range
Compare puppy costs for Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Find price differences between these breeds.
$500-$700 $800-$1200 Unknown
Availability
Which is easier to get, Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu or Indian Spitz (Greater)?
Very frequent: The Lhasa Apso is quite easy to get.
Very frequent: The Shih Tzu is quite easy to get.
Average: The Indian Spitz (Greater) is a commonly available dog breed.

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligence Rating
Compare intelligence levels between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which breed ranks highest?
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
See more.
Low: The Shih Tzu is one of the dog breeds that have the lowest degree of obedience intelligence.
See more.
Very smart: Indian Spitz (Greater) is an excellent dog breed.
See more.
Training Difficulty
Compare training difficulty levels between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which is easiest to train?
Lhasa Apso dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs are very easy to train.
See more.
Watchdog Rating
Compare watchdog abilities of Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which breed is most alert?
Lhasa Apso dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
See more.
Territorial Protection
Compare territorial instincts between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which breed is most protective?
Lhasa Apso dogs are average defenders.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs strongly protect their territory.
See more.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs are average defenders.
See more.

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) Personality and Temperament Comparison

Personality Traits
How do personalities differ between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater)? Compare temperaments.
Playful
Alert
Intelligent
Friendly
Obedient
Devoted
Lively
Steady
Spirited
Assertive
Active
Playful
Happy
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Lively
Gentle
Active
Playful
Intelligent
Loyal
Kind
Athletic
Communicative
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference?
Sensitive: Lhasa Apso dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed.
See more.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed.
See more.
Affection Level
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater)?
High: Lhasa Apso dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
High: Shih Tzu dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
Average: Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs are average dogs regarding their affection level.
See more.
Social Needs
Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) social needs comparison:
Lhasa Apso dogs need for social interaction is average.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs need a lot of social interaction.
See more.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs are a social breed.
See more.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
Which dog has a greater roaming instinct?
Lhasa Apso dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
See more.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
See more.
Prey Drive
Which dog has a higher prey drive? Which can be better for hunting?
Lhasa Apso dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
See more.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
See more.

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Barking Frequency
Compare barking frequencies of Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which breed is most vocal?
A lot: Lhasa Apso is a particularly loud breed.
See more.
A lot: Shih Tzu is a particularly loud breed.
See more.
A lot: Indian Spitz (Greater) is a particularly loud breed.
See more.
Playful Nature
Compare playfulness levels between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which breed is most playful?
Average: Lhasa Apsos, like any other dog breed, like playing.
See more.
Shih Tzus are not the most playful dog breed.
See more.
The Indian Spitz (Greater) is a highly playful breed.
See more.
Apartment Adaptability
Compare apartment suitability of Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which adapts best to small spaces?
Very house-friendly dog the Lhasa Apso breed.
Very house-friendly dog the Shih Tzu breed.
Very house-friendly dog the Indian Spitz (Greater) breed.

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Lifestyle Adaptability
Compare adaptability between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which breed is most flexible?
Lhasa Apso dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Shih Tzu dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Alone Time Tolerance
Which dog can be left alone: Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu or Indian Spitz (Greater)?
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner.
Shih Tzu dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) Bite Characteristics Comparison

Bite Risk Assessment
Compare biting potential between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which has lowest bite risk?

Low 🔽

The Lhasa Apso has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

The Indian Spitz (Greater) has a low chance of biting somebody.
Mouthing Tendency
Compare mouthing tendencies between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which uses mouth most during play?
Lhasa Apso dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
See more.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
See more.
Bite Strength Rating
Compare bite forces between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which has the strongest bite?

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Lhasa Apso bite force: Weak.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Shih Tzu bite force: Weak.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Indian Spitz (Greater) bite force: Ordinary.

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) Health and Lifespan Comparison

Average Lifespan
Compare life expectancies of Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which breed lives longest?
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Lhasa Apso: 13 years
10-16 years
The average lifespan of Shih Tzu: 13 years
13-15 years
The average lifespan of Indian Spitz (Greater): 14 years
Climate Tolerance
Compare weather adaptability between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which handles climate changes best?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
See more.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
See more.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
See more.
Health Concerns
Compare health problems common in Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which has fewer health issues?
Lhasa Apsos tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
The Shih Tzu is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Indian Spitz (Greater)s are commonly healthy dogs.
Vet Care Frequency
Which one may need more or less veterinary visits?
Frequent
The Lhasa Apso should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year.
Average
The Shih Tzu should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Rare
The Indian Spitz (Greater) should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year).
Health Problems
Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater)? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) health problems comparison:
Patellar Luxation
Allergies
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Sebaceous Adenitis
Cherry Eye
Familial Inherited Renal Dysplasia
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
Hip Dysplasia
Patellar Luxation
Allergies
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Umbilical Hernias
Ear Infections
Distichiasis
Portosystemic Liver Shunt
Bladder Stones
Ectopic Cilia
Reverse Sneezing
Dry Eye
Proptosis
Juvenile Renal Dysplasia
Keratitis
Retained Baby Teeth
Snuffles
No data available

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Rating
Compare energy levels between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which breed is most active?
Lhasa Apso dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds.
Shih Tzu dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu or Indian Spitz (Greater)? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?
Lhasa Apso dogs exercise need is minimal.
Shih Tzu dogs exercise need is minimal.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs exercise need is minimal.
Sleeping Need
Which one sleeps the least/most: Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu or Indian Spitz (Greater)?
Lhasa Apso dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping.
Shih Tzu dogs like sleeping so they do sleep a lot.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs like sleeping so they do sleep a lot.

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Obesity Tendency
Compare weight gain tendencies between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which is most prone to obesity?
Average: The Lhasa Apso has an average risk for obesity.
See more.
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Shih Tzu's weight, he can easily gain weight.
See more.
Low: The Indian Spitz (Greater) has good luck with genetics.
See more.
Food Consumption
Compare food requirements between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which needs most food?
1/4 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day. 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Allergy Friendliness
Compare hypoallergenic qualities of Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which is best for allergy sufferers?
No See more. Yes See more. No See more.
Coat Colors
Compare color variations between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). What colors are available?
Black
Red
White
Brown
Yellow
Black
Red
Blue
Silver
Brindle
Liver
Gold
White
Brown
Black & White
Grooming Requirements
Compare grooming needs between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which requires most maintenance?
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
See more.
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
See more.
Average: The Indian Spitz (Greater) requires average grooming effort.
See more.
Drooling Tendency
Compare drooling tendencies between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which drools least?
The Lhasa Apso is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
The Shih Tzu is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
The Indian Spitz (Greater) is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
Stinkiness Rating
Compare odor levels between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which has least natural smell?

Medium

The Lhasa Apso has an average chance of bad smell.

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of bad smell.

Medium

The Indian Spitz (Greater) has an average chance of bad smell.
Coat Characteristics
Compare coat types between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). How do their fur characteristics differ?
Dense Dense Thick
Bathing Needs
Compare bathing needs between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which requires most frequent baths?
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup.
See more.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup.
See more.
6-8 weeks
Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one.
See more.
Shedding Level
Who sheds more Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu or Indian Spitz (Greater)? Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu or {name3 shedding:
Lhasa Apso dogs shed above average.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs shed moderately.
See more.

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) Good With Comparison

Child Compatibility
Compare child-friendliness between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which is best with kids?
Lhasa Apso dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
Shih Tzu dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
Pet Compatibility
Which dog breeds get along well with other animals/pets?
Lhasa Apso dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
Shih Tzu dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Which dog is more stranger friendly Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu or Indian Spitz (Greater)? Which dog is more friendly?
Lhasa Apso dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Shih Tzu dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
Which dog is more cat friendly Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu or Indian Spitz (Greater)?
Lhasa Apso dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
Shih Tzu dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Which dog is more dog friendly Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu or Indian Spitz (Greater)?
Lhasa Apso dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
Shih Tzu dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Which dog is good for the first-time owners: Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater)?
Yes
Lhasa Apso dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Yes
Shih Tzu dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Yes
Indian Spitz (Greater) dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Which one fits better in the office?
No
Lhasa Apso is not the best dog breed for office environment.
No
Shih Tzu is not the best dog breed for office environment.
No
Indian Spitz (Greater) is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Which dog is good for elderly people?
Lhasa Apsos are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
Shih Tzus are not the best breed for elderly people.
Indian Spitz (Greater)s are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog Capability
Compare service dog potential between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which is best suited for service work?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
See more.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
See more.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
See more.
Therapy Work Suitability
Compare therapy dog potential between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which excels in therapy work?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
See more.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
See more.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
See more.
Scent Detection Ability
Compare detection capabilities between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which has best nose work ability?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.
Search & Rescue Potential
Compare search and rescue potential between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which is best for SAR work?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.
Maritime Work Ability
Compare boating aptitude between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which is best suited for water work?

Not really

Lhasa Apso breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.

Not really

Shih Tzu breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.

Not really

Indian Spitz (Greater) breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.
Draft Work Capability
Compare cart pulling abilities between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which is best for draft work?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
See more.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
See more.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
See more.
Military Service Background
Compare military service history of Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which has most military use?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) Reproducibility Comparison

Puppy Litter Size
Compare typical litter sizes of Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which has most puppies?
4-6 puppies 2-5 puppies 1-5 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
Compare gestation periods of Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Any breeding differences?
60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more.
Breeding Frequency
Compare breeding intervals between Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). What's recommended?

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.

Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater) Recognition Comparison

AKC Classification
Compare AKC groups for Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). How are they classified?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1935 as a Non-Sporting breed. Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 as a Toy breed. Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
Compare FCI groups for Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). How are they classified internationally?
Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Tibetan breeds section. Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Tibetan breeds section. Not recognized by FCI.
Kennel Club Recognition
Compare breed recognition status of Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, and Indian Spitz (Greater). Which has most recognition?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry
No data available

Rate This Comparsion - Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu vs Indian Spitz (Greater)

Reviews