Lhasa Apso vs German Shepherd
Discover the differences between Lhasa Apso and German Shepherd to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Lhasa Apso
A loyal, spirited companion with a luxurious coat and keen senses. Thrives in homes that appreciate its playful charm and independent personality.
German Shepherd
Confident, loyal, and highly intelligent, this breed thrives as both a devoted family companion and a reliable working partner. Always alert and eager to learn, it adapts to many roles with ease.
Quick comparison
Small
6–8 kg
Long, dense
12–15 years
5–7 kg
Moderately active
Large
30–40 kg
Double coat, dense undercoat
9–13 years
22–32 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Lhasa Apso
Reserved with strangers, affectionate with family
Quick learner, can be independent-minded
Moderate exercise needs, not overly active
Enjoys play but not overly boisterous
Copes well with various living situations
German Shepherd
Warm with family, reserved with strangers
Quick learner, highly trainable and alert
Needs regular activity and vigorous exercise
Enjoys games, interactive and engaging
Adjusts well to new situations and environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Lhasa Apso
Patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy
German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Lhasa Apso
Good option
Easygoing but needs consistent training and grooming
Excellent fit
Small size and low exercise needs suit compact living spaces
Not ideal
Prefers moderate activity and may tire quickly in very active homes
Supervised only
Can be patient but may not tolerate rough handling by young children
Generally compatible
Gets along if socialized early with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods
German Shepherd
Challenging for beginners
Needs experienced, consistent training and socialization
Not ideal
Needs space and frequent exercise to prevent boredom
Perfect fit
Thrives with active owners who can provide daily physical and mental challenges
Highly suitable
Loyal and protective, can be gentle and patient with proper socialization
Usually compatible
Can get along with other pets if raised together and well socialized
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop behavioral issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Lhasa Apso
- Alert watchdog instincts
- Loyal to family members
- Low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat
- Adaptable to apartment living
- Good longevity for small breed
German Shepherd
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn tasks
- Strong loyalty to family members
- Excellent working and service dog abilities
- Protective instincts make them good guardians
- Adaptable to various training activities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Lhasa Apso
- Stubborn during training sessions
- Prone to matting without regular grooming
- Can be wary of strangers
- Sensitive to rough handling
- May develop small dog syndrome if spoiled
German Shepherd
- Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia
- High exercise needs require daily activity
- Can develop separation anxiety if left alone
- May be wary of strangers without socialization
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires frequent grooming
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