Havanese vs Lhasa Apso

Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds β€” temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.

πŸ• Havanese πŸ• Lhasa Apso
Group Toy Non-Sporting
Origin Cuba Tibet
Weight 3–6 kg 5–8 kg
Height 21–29 cm 25–28 cm
Lifespan 14–16 years 12–15 years
Energy level
Trainability
Grooming needs
Good with kids
Good with other pets
Hypoallergenic
Watchdog instinct
Novice-owner OK

πŸ• Havanese

Temperament

Affectionate, friendly, gentle, playful. Havanese thrive on family company and don't do well left alone for long.

Exercise

30–60 minutes of daily walking plus indoor play. Mental work is just as important as physical.

Grooming

Long silky double coat. Daily brushing if kept long; most owners do a "puppy clip" every 6 weeks. Low-shedding.

Health

Patellar luxation. Eye conditions (cataracts, cherry eye, PRA). Hip dysplasia. Heart murmurs. Generally a long-lived breed.

Full Havanese profile β†’

πŸ• Lhasa Apso

Temperament

Alert, watchful, affectionate with family, suspicious of strangers. Lhasas are independent and can be stubborn.

Exercise

30–45 minutes of daily walking plus indoor play.

Grooming

Floor-length coat needs daily brushing if kept long; most owners get a "puppy clip" every 4–6 weeks. Eyes need daily wiping.

Health

Cherry eye. Patellar luxation. Hip dysplasia. Renal dysplasia. Brachycephalic features (mild).

Full Lhasa Apso profile β†’

Which is right for you?

Pick the Havanese if

Allergy-sensitive families, retirees, apartment dwellers, multi-pet homes.

Pick the Lhasa Apso if

Apartment dwellers, retirees, families with older children.

Products both breeds would love

Free DeliveryOn orders over $100
Secure CheckoutStripe & Apple Pay
Easy Returns14-day return window
Real Human SupportMon–Fri 7am–10pm