Lhasa Apso vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between Lhasa Apso and Labrador Retriever 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.
Labrador Retriever
Eager, friendly, and intelligent, this breed loves being part of an active family. Their gentle nature and loyalty make them outstanding companions for all ages.
Quick comparison
Small
6–8 kg
Long, dense
12–15 years
5–7 kg
Moderately active
Large
29–36 kg
Short double coat, water-resistant
10–12 years
25–32 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
Labrador Retriever
Warm and sociable with people and animals
Quick learner, responds well to training
High stamina, enjoys active pursuits daily
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts easily to new situations and environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Lhasa Apso
Patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy
Labrador Retriever
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
Labrador Retriever
Great choice
Patient and eager to please, Labradors are manageable for most first-time owners.
Not ideal
Labradors need space and exercise, so apartments can limit their activity needs.
Perfect fit
High energy and stamina make them excellent for active individuals or families.
Highly suitable
Gentle temperament and playful nature make them safe and loving with young children.
Very friendly
Generally sociable and get along well with other dogs and pets.
Prone to anxiety
Extended alone time can lead to boredom and destructive behaviors in this breed.
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
Labrador Retriever
- Friendly and sociable with people and dogs
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Excellent with children and families
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
- Generally adaptable to various living situations
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
Labrador Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- Can become destructive if under-exercised
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires regular grooming
- May develop hip or elbow dysplasia
- Needs significant daily physical activity
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