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Havanese vs Shih Apso Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Havaneser or Shihapso?

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

Other names

Havaneser, Bichon Havanese, Bichon Habanero, Havanezer, Bichon Havanês, Bichon Havanais, Havanese Cuban Bichon
Lhasa-Tzu, Lhasa Tzu, Shih-Apso, Lhasatzu, Shihapso

Weight

What is the average weight of Havanese and Shih Apso?
12.5 pounds ( 6 kg )
16.5 pounds ( 7 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Havanese and Shih Apso
12.5 inches ( 31.8 cm )
10.5 inches ( 26.7 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Havaneses or Shih Apsos hypoallergenic, or neither?

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Havaneses are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

No

Unfortunately, the Shih Apso is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Havanese and Shih Apso dogs?
Affectionate
Gentle
Playful
Companionable
Intelligent
Responsive
Sturdy
Lively
Amiable
Charming

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

Shedding Level

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

Havaneses shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Shih Apsos are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Havanese or Shih Apso?

Havaneses make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Avoid Shih Apsos as watchdogs - they're not effective.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Havanese and Shih Apso breeds?
Bichon Tenerife, Blanquito de le Habana

Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Havanese and Shih Apso?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Havanese Club of America

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DBR = Designer Breed Registry
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

Date of Birth

When were Havanese and Shih Apso breeds first developed?
1700s

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Havanese and Shih Apso dogs?
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Havanese and Shih Apso?
Black
Brown

Black

Coat Length

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

The coat of Havanese and Shih Apso dogs is generally known for its length.

Coat Density

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

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Havanese and Shih Apso?
Wavy

Litter Size

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

14-16 puppies per pregnancy

A Havanese can have a litter of 14-16 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

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

Havanese 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 Havanese and Shih Apso breeds?
Patellar Luxation
Deafness
Cherry Eye
Cataracts
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Portosystemic Shunt
Heart Murmur

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 Havanese and Shih Apso?
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia
Chondrodysplasia (Chd)

Ear Infections
Allergies
Eye Disease
Hernia
Reverse Sneezing
Dental Problems

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Havanese and Shih Apso breeds?
Eye
Hip
Hearing
Heart
Liver Ultrasound
X-Rays
Eye Examination

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

Energy

How do the energy levels of Havaneses and Shih Apsos compare?

Havaneses are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Shih Apsos are a good choice for a low-key lifestyle due to their low energy levels.

Social Needs

Havanese vs Shih Apso social needs comparison

Havanese has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Shih Apso has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Havanese vs Shih Apso exercise need comparison.

Havaneses require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.

Shih Apsos need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.

Sleeping Need

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

Havanese and Shih Apso breeds are known to have moderate energy levels and normal sleep patterns, typically sleeping around 12-14 hours per day.

Tendency to Bark

Do Havaneses or Shih Apsos bark more/less frequently?

Compared to most other breeds, Havanese and Shih Apso tend to be less vocal and bark less frequently. They typically only bark when necessary, such as to communicate or alert their owner, and do not bark excessively, especially when left alone.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Havanese vs Shih Apso?

Roaming urge

Havanese vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Havanese and Shih Apso entertained?
Bike ride, Go on Vacation, Walk, Run, Tug-of-war, Go to Park, Play, Chase, Fetch, High Five, Shake, Dog Parks, Eating Snacks, Shopping, Dressing up, Go to Beach, Frisbee, Heel, Speak, Brushing, Boat ride, Catch treats, Play keep away, Walking, Petting, Cuddling, Playing, Sit on lap, Groom, Sniff

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, Havaneses or Shih Apsos?

Medium

Havaneses 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 Havanese or Shih Apso walk each week?

7 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Havanese, it's at least 7 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 Havaneses or Shih Apsos require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most Havaneses 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, Havaneses or Shih Apsos?

The Havanese 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 Havanese and Shih Apso dogs?

Daily

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

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Havaneses and Shih Apsos?
Slicker Brush
Comb
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Dematter
Comb
Clipper

Cups

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

1.2 cups

For an average 10-15 pound (5 - 7 kg) Havanese feed 1.2 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, Havanese or Shih Apso?

$1.40 - $1.80 / day

The average cost of a Havanese is somewhere $1.40 - $1.80 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, Havanese or Shih Apso?

$42 - $53 / month

The average per month expenses of a Havanese is between $42 - $53. This makes an average of $504 - $636 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.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Havaneses vs Shih Apsos

Havaneses are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Shih Apso has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Havanese and Shih Apso compare in sensitivity?

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

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Havanese vs Shih Apso?

Apartment Friendly

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

Havaneses and Shih Apsos are known for being excellent apartment dogs. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Child Friendly

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

Havaneses make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

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 - Havanese or Shih Apso?

Cat Friendly

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

Havaneses and Shih Apsos are very cat friendly dogs. They generally make good companions for cats.

Dog Friendly

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

Havaneses and Shih Apsos are very friendly towards other dogs. This breed typically have a happy and affectionate temperament around dogs.

Pet friendly

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

Stranger Friendly

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

Havaneses are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Shih Apsos are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Havanese and Shih Apso?

Havaneses are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

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

Trainability

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

The Havanese is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.

Shih Apsos are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

Common match-ups