Dusky vs Shih Apso Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Dusky or Lhasa-Tzu?

Compare the Dusky and Shih Apso breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Dusky or a Lhasa-Tzu? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Lhasa-Tzu, Lhasa Tzu, Shih-Apso, Lhasatzu, Shihapso

Weight

What is the average weight of Dusky and Shih Apso?

18.0 pounds ( 8 kg )

16.5 pounds ( 7 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Dusky and Shih Apso

14.0 inches ( 35.6 cm )

10.5 inches ( 26.7 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Duskys or Shih Apsos hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Dusky nor Shih Apso are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Dusky and Shih Apso dogs?

Playful
Stubborn
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Devoted
Lively
Gentle
Clever

Active
Playful
Happy
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Obedient
Devoted
Lively
Gentle
Steady
Spirited
Assertive

Shedding Level

Do Duskys shed more than Shih Apsos, or which breed sheds more, Duskys or Shih Apsos?

Dusky or Shih Apso dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Dusky or Shih Apso. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Dusky and Shih Apso breeds?

Siberian Husky, Dachshund

Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu

Date of Birth

When were Dusky and Shih Apso breeds first developed?

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Dusky and Shih Apso dogs?

Blue
Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Dusky and Shih Apso?

Black

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Dusky and Shih Apso breeds?

Duskys have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Shih Apsos are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Dusky and Shih Apso?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Dusky and Shih Apso?

Wiry

Wavy

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Dusky and Shih Apso?

4-8 puppies per pregnancy

A Dusky can have a litter of 4-8 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

4-6 puppies per pregnancy

A Shih Apso can have a litter of 4-6 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Dusky and Shih Apsos are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Dusky and Shih Apso, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Dusky and Shih Apso breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Dusky and Shih Apso breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Eye Diseases and Disorders

Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Kidney Problems
Liver Problems
Bladder Stones and Infections

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Dusky and Shih Apso?

Epilepsy
Hypothyroidism
Heart Disease
Urinary Stones

Ear Infections
Allergies
Eye Disease
Hernia
Reverse Sneezing
Dental Problems

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Dusky and Shih Apso breeds?

X-Rays
MRI
CT Scan
Physical Examination
Urinalysis
Complete Blood Work
Serum Chemistry
Neurologic Exam
Ophthalmic Examination

Wellness Check
Chest X-rays
Dental and Oral Examinations
Clinical Exam
Eye and Ear Examination

Social Needs

Dusky vs Shih Apso social needs comparison

Dusky and Shih Apso have above average social needs compared to other breeds. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Dusky or Shih Apso?

Duskys sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Shih Apsos have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Dusky vs Shih Apso?

Roaming urge

Dusky vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Dusky or Shih Apso - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Dusky and Shih Apso entertained?

Fetch

Walking, Tracking, Nose work, Freestyle, Fetch, Long walks, Loves swimming, Playing Ball, Holidays, Sleeping, Eating Snacks, Toys, Walk, Brushing, Chase, Shake, Walks, family, W, Walks, Dog Parks, Cuddling, Play, Running, Cuddles, Family play, Hiking, Playdate, Shake hands, Discipline, Stay

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Duskys or Shih Apsos?

Medium

Duskys are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Low

Shih Apsos are low-energy dogs. This breed make a great companion for a relatively inactive person. Shih Apso dogs require a few short daily walks, and then they're happy snuggling next to you for the rest of the day.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Dusky or Shih Apso walk each week?

9 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Dusky, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

4 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Shih Apso, it's at least 4 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Duskys or Shih Apsos require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most Duskys usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

30 minutes

In general most Shih Apsos usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Duskys or Shih Apsos?

The Dusky requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Shih Apsos have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Dusky and Shih Apso dogs?

Weekly

Dusky should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Daily

Ideally, Shih Apso should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Duskys and Shih Apsos?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Dematter
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Dematter
Comb
Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Dusky or Shih Apso in cups?

3 cups

For an average 25-55 pound (11 - 25 kg) Dusky feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

1 cups

For an average 15-18 pound (7 - 8 kg) Shih Apso feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Dusky or Shih Apso?

$1.40 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a Dusky is somewhere $1.40 - $2.00 per day.

$1.30 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Shih Apso is somewhere $1.30 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Dusky or Shih Apso?

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Dusky is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$35 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Shih Apso is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Sensitivity Level

How do Dusky and Shih Apso compare in sensitivity?

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Dusky and Shih Apso need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Dusky or Shih Apso?

Duskys are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Shih Apsos make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Duskys or Shih Apsos have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Duskys have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Shih Apsos are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Dusky or Shih Apso?

Cat Friendly

Do Dusky or Shih Apso breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Duskys are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Shih Apsos are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Dusky or Shih Apso?

Duskys are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Shih Apsos are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Pet friendly

How do Dusky or Shih Apso dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Dusky or Shih Apso?

Dusky and Shih Apso are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Dusky and Shih Apso?

Duskys are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Shih Apsos have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Duskys and Shih Apsos compare?

Dusky and Shih Apso dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.