Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.
| Lhasa Apso | Pekingese | |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Non-Sporting | Toy |
| Origin | Tibet | China |
| Weight | 5–8 kg | 3–6 kg |
| Height | 25–28 cm | 15–23 cm |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years | 12–15 years |
| Energy level | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good with other pets | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Watchdog instinct | ||
| Novice-owner OK |
Alert, watchful, affectionate with family, suspicious of strangers. Lhasas are independent and can be stubborn.
30–45 minutes of daily walking plus indoor play.
Floor-length coat needs daily brushing if kept long; most owners get a "puppy clip" every 4–6 weeks. Eyes need daily wiping.
Cherry eye. Patellar luxation. Hip dysplasia. Renal dysplasia. Brachycephalic features (mild).
Full Lhasa Apso profile →Dignified, independent, sometimes aloof. Devoted to their chosen person.
Just 20–30 minutes of light walking daily. Cannot tolerate heat.
Long heavy double coat. Daily brushing. Many owners do a shorter "puppy cut" every 6 weeks.
BOAS (severe). Eye injuries (eyes are very prominent). Heart disease. Spinal issues. Heat stroke.
Full Pekingese profile →Apartment dwellers, retirees, families with older children.
Calm households, retirees, single-pet homes.
