Lhasa Apso vs Shih Tzu
The Lhasa Apso is bigger than the Shih Tzu. This is the most obvious physical difference between the two breeds. Although bigger, a Lhasa normally has a smaller bone structure, therefore, it will look slimmer than a Shih Tzu, which has a more solid body structure.
Apart from their sizes, a Lhasa Apso has a longer nose, narrower skull, and smaller almond-shaped eyes. Meanwhile, a Shih Tzu has a broader skull with large, round eyes. The coat of the Lhasa is heavy, dense, thick, and hard. The Shih Tzu has a more regal, luxurious double coat, with flowing tresses.
The Lhasa Apso has cat-like feet; round in shape and heavily feathered. On the other hand, a Shih Tzu has padded feet and firm, well muscled legs. The tail of the Lhasa Apso flows towards the back, mimicking the shape of a screw, and is heavily feathered. The Shih Tzu, on the other hand, has a plumed and slightly curved tail that also flows towards the back.
The characters of the Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu are very different. A Lhasa is a happy dog; assertive, a bit aggressive, and more stubborn and wary of strangers. It can display extreme devotion and over protectiveness for its master. A Shih Tzu, on the other hand, is a very friendly, bouncy and happy-go-lucky dog, and loves to play. This breed is not aggressive, and is not wary of strangers.
To summarize:
1. A Lhasa Apso is bigger than a Shih Tzu.
2. A Lhasa Apso has a smaller skeletal structure, causing it to be slimmer than the Shih Tzu, which is longer and well built for its size.
3. A Lhasa Apso has a heavy and hard coat, while the Shih Tzu has luxurious and flowing locks and tresses.
4. A Lhasa is assertive, wary of strangers, and deeply devoted, while a Shih Tzu is so friendly and playful that it will not recognize a stranger as a stranger.