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Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Comparison - Dog breed selector: Dokhi Apso or Lion Dog or Chrysanthemum Dog? Find the right dog for you

"Find similarities and differences between Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu" Compare Tibetan Terrier and Lhasa Apso. Which is better: Tibetan Terrier or Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu?
 
 
 
Name Tibetan Terrier Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu
OriginsTibet flagTibet Tibet flagTibet China flagChina
Group Companion Dogs Companion Dogs Companion Dogs
Popularity Rank1017720
Reviews4419
User Ratings

Common Names & Aliases
Compare alternative names and nicknames used for Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu breeds.
Dokhi Apso
Tsang Apso
Lion Dog
Lhasa
Chrysanthemum Dog
Chinese Lion Dog
Breed Classification
How do breed classifications differ between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu? Compare their breeding categories.
Purebred Purebred Purebred

Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Size and Weight Comparison

Size Classification
Compare size differences between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which breed is the largest?
Medium Small Small
Weight Statistics
How do weights compare between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu? Compare adult weight ranges.
18-30 pounds (8.2-13.6 kg) 13-15 pounds (5.9-6.8 kg) 9–16 pounds (4-7 kg)
Average Weight
Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?
24 pounds (8.2-13.6 kg) 14 pounds (5.9-6.8 kg) 9–16 pounds (5.5 kg)
Height
Which is taller, Tibetan Terrier or Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu? Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu height comparison:
14-17 inches (36-43 cm) 10-11 inches (25-28 cm) 8-11 inches (20-28 cm)
Average Height
Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?
15.5 inches (39.5 cm) 10.5 inches (26.5 cm) 9.5 inches (24 cm)

Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Price and Availability Comparison

Price Range
Compare puppy costs for Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Find price differences between these breeds.
$1200-$2000 $500-$700 $800-$1200
Availability
Which is easier to get, Tibetan Terrier or Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu?
Frequent: The Tibetan Terrier is easier than average to get.
Very frequent: The Lhasa Apso is quite easy to get.
Very frequent: The Shih Tzu is quite easy to get.

Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligence Rating
Compare intelligence levels between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which breed ranks highest?
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
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Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
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Low: The Shih Tzu is one of the dog breeds that have the lowest degree of obedience intelligence.
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Training Difficulty
Compare training difficulty levels between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which is easiest to train?
Tibetan Terrier dogs are quite easy to train.
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Lhasa Apso dogs are quite easy to train.
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Shih Tzu dogs are quite easy to train.
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Watchdog Rating
Compare watchdog abilities of Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which breed is most alert?
Tibetan Terrier dogs are average watchdogs.
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Lhasa Apso dogs are average watchdogs.
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Shih Tzu dogs are average watchdogs.
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Territorial Protection
Compare territorial instincts between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which breed is most protective?
Tibetan Terrier dogs are average defenders.
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Lhasa Apso dogs are average defenders.
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Shih Tzu dogs strongly protect their territory.
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Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Personality and Temperament Comparison

Personality Traits
How do personalities differ between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu? Compare temperaments.
Energetic
Sensitive
Intelligent
Affectionate
Gentle
Reserved
Amiable
Playful
Alert
Intelligent
Friendly
Obedient
Devoted
Lively
Steady
Spirited
Assertive
Active
Playful
Happy
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Lively
Gentle
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference?
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds.
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Sensitive: Lhasa Apso dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.
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Shih Tzu dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed.
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Affection Level
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu?
High: Tibetan Terrier dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
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High: Lhasa Apso dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
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High: Shih Tzu dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
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Social Needs
Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu social needs comparison:
Tibetan Terrier dogs are a social breed.
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Lhasa Apso dogs need for social interaction is average.
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Shih Tzu dogs need a lot of social interaction.
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Impulse to Wander or Roam
Which dog has a greater roaming instinct?
Tibetan Terrier dogs have average wanderlust potential.
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Lhasa Apso dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
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Shih Tzu dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
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Prey Drive
Which dog has a higher prey drive? Which can be better for hunting?
Tibetan Terrier dogs have low to an average impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals.
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Lhasa Apso dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
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Shih Tzu dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
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Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Activity and Playfulness Comparison

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

Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Lifestyle Adaptability
Compare adaptability between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which breed is most flexible?
Tibetan Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
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.
Alone Time Tolerance
Which dog can be left alone: Tibetan Terrier or Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu?
Tibetan Terrier 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.
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.

Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Bite Characteristics Comparison

Bite Risk Assessment
Compare biting potential between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which has lowest bite risk?

Low 🔽

The Tibetan Terrier has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

The Lhasa Apso has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

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

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Tibetan Terrier bite force: Ordinary.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Lhasa Apso bite force: Weak.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Shih Tzu bite force: Weak.

Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Health and Lifespan Comparison

Average Lifespan
Compare life expectancies of Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which breed lives longest?
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Tibetan Terrier: 13 years
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Lhasa Apso: 13 years
10-16 years
The average lifespan of Shih Tzu: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
Compare weather adaptability between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which handles climate changes best?
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Tibetan Terrier can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.
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Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
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Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
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Health Concerns
Compare health problems common in Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which has fewer health issues?
The Tibetan Terrier is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
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.
Vet Care Frequency
Which one may need more or less veterinary visits?
Average
The Tibetan Terrier should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
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.
Health Problems
Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu health problems comparison:
Cataracts
Hip Dysplasia
Patellar Luxation
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Hyperthyroidism
Distichiasis
Lens Luxation
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

Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Rating
Compare energy levels between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which breed is most active?
Tibetan Terrier dogs are high-energy dogs.
Lhasa Apso dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds.
Shih Tzu dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: Tibetan Terrier or Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?
Tibetan Terrier dogs need quite a lot of exercise.
Lhasa Apso dogs exercise need is minimal.
Shih Tzu dogs exercise need is minimal.
Sleeping Need
Which one sleeps the least/most: Tibetan Terrier or Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu?
Tibetan Terrier dogs don't need too much sleep.
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.

Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Obesity Tendency
Compare weight gain tendencies between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which is most prone to obesity?
Average: The Tibetan Terrier has an average risk for obesity.
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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.
Food Consumption
Compare food requirements between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which needs most food?
Recommended daily amount: 1 1/8 to 1 3/8 cups of a high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals. 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.

Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Allergies and Grooming Comparison

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

Medium

The Tibetan Terrier has an average chance of bad smell.

Medium

The Lhasa Apso has an average chance of bad smell.

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of bad smell.
Coat Characteristics
Compare coat types between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. How do their fur characteristics differ?
Thick
Smooth
Dense Dense
Bathing Needs
Compare bathing needs between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which requires most frequent baths?
6-8 weeks
Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one.
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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.
Shedding Level
Who sheds more Tibetan Terrier or Lhasa Apso or Shih Tzu? Tibetan Terrier or Lhasa Apso or {name3 shedding:
Tibetan Terrier dogs shed none to minimal.
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Lhasa Apso dogs shed above average.
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Shih Tzu dogs shed none to minimal.
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Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Good With Comparison

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

Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog Capability
Compare service dog potential between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which is best suited for service work?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
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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 Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which excels in therapy work?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
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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 Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. 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 Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. 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 Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which is best suited for water work?

Not really

Tibetan Terrier breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
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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.
Draft Work Capability
Compare cart pulling abilities between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. 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.
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Military Service Background
Compare military service history of Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. 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.

Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Reproducibility Comparison

Puppy Litter Size
Compare typical litter sizes of Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Which has most puppies?
4-6 puppies 4-6 puppies 2-5 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
Compare gestation periods of Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. Any breeding differences?
60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more.
Breeding Frequency
Compare breeding intervals between Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. 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.

Tibetan Terrier vs Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu Recognition Comparison

AKC Classification
Compare AKC groups for Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. How are they classified?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1973 as a Non-Sporting breed. 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.
FCI Classification
Compare FCI groups for Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. 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. Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Tibetan breeds section.
Kennel Club Recognition
Compare breed recognition status of Tibetan Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and Shih Tzu. 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
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

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