Karelian Bear Dog vs Shih Apso Comparison. Which dog is better for you: KBD or Lhasa-Tzu?
Compare the Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a KBD or a Lhasa-Tzu? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
What is the average weight of Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso?
47.0 pounds
( 21 kg )
16.5 pounds
( 7 kg )
Height
What is the average height of Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso
22.0 inches
( 55.9 cm )
10.5 inches
( 26.7 cm )
Hypoallergenic
Are Karelian Bear Dogs or Shih Apsos hypoallergenic, or neither?
No
Unfortunately, neither Karelian Bear Dog 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 Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso dogs?
Do Karelian Bear Dogs shed more than Shih Apsos, or which breed sheds more, Karelian Bear Dogs or Shih Apsos?
Karelian Bear Dog 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 Karelian Bear Dog or Shih Apso. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.
Watchdog Ability
Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Karelian Bear Dog or Shih Apso?
Karelian Bear Dogs 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 Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso breeds?
Spitz
Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu
Date of Birth
When were Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso breeds first developed?
Unknown
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso dogs?
Brown
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso?
Black
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso breeds?
Karelian Bear Dogs 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 Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso?
Straight
Wavy
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso?
10-12 puppies per pregnancy
A Karelian Bear Dog can have a litter of 10-12 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
Karelian Bear Dogs are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.
Shih Apsos are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.
Health Issues
Between Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso, which breed is more prone to health problems?
The Karelian Bear Dog is prone to health issues and requires regular check-ups with a vet to identify and treat any problems early.
While the Shih Apso breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.
Major Concerns
What are the major health concerns for Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso breeds?
Cataracts Hip Dysplasia Periodontal Disease Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
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 Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso?
What occasional tests are recommended for Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso breeds?
OFA CERF Physical Examination
Wellness Check Chest X-rays Dental and Oral Examinations Clinical Exam Eye and Ear Examination
Energy
How do the energy levels of Karelian Bear Dogs and Shih Apsos compare?
Karelian Bear Dogs' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.
Shih Apsos are a good choice for a low-key lifestyle due to their low energy levels.
Social Needs
Karelian Bear Dog vs Shih Apso social needs comparison
Karelian Bear Dog 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
Karelian Bear Dog vs Shih Apso exercise need comparison.
Karelian Bear Dogs need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.
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: Karelian Bear Dog or Shih Apso?
Karelian Bear Dogs 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.
Tendency to Bark
Do Karelian Bear Dogs or Shih Apsos bark more/less frequently?
Karelian Bear Dogs bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.
Shih Apso dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: Karelian Bear Dog vs Shih Apso?
Roaming urge
Karelian Bear Dog vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Karelian Bear Dog or Shih Apso - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Past times
What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso entertained?
Fetch, Walk, Run
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, Karelian Bear Dogs or Shih Apsos?
High
Karelian Bear Dogs are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.
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 Karelian Bear Dog or Shih Apso walk each week?
10 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Karelian Bear Dog, it's at least 10 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 Karelian Bear Dogs or Shih Apsos require more exercise?
60 minutes
In general most Karelian Bear Dogs 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, Karelian Bear Dogs or Shih Apsos?
Karelian Bear Dogs require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.
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 Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso dogs?
Weekly
Karelian Bear Dog 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 Karelian Bear Dogs and Shih Apsos?
Pin Brush Comb Nail Clipper
Slicker Brush Dematter Comb Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Karelian Bear Dog or Shih Apso in cups?
2.5 cups
For an average 44-51 pound (20 - 23 kg) Karelian Bear Dog feed 2.5 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, Karelian Bear Dog or Shih Apso?
$1.70 - $2.00 / day
The average cost of a Karelian Bear Dog is somewhere $1.70 - $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, Karelian Bear Dog or Shih Apso?
$48 - $63 / month
The average per month expenses of a Karelian Bear Dog 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.
Intelligence
Comparing Intelligence: Karelian Bear Dogs vs Shih Apsos
Karelian Bear Dogs 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 Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso compare in sensitivity?
These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Karelian Bear Dog 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: Karelian Bear Dog vs Shih Apso?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Karelian Bear Dog or Shih Apso?
Karelian Bear Dogs can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.
Shih Apsos make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.
Child Friendly
Do Karelian Bear Dogs or Shih Apsos have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Karelian Bear Dogs 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 - Karelian Bear Dog or Shih Apso?
Cat Friendly
Do Karelian Bear Dog or Shih Apso breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Karelian Bear Dogs are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.
Shih Apsos are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.
Dog Friendly
Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Karelian Bear Dog or Shih Apso?
Karelian Bear Dogs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.
Shih Apsos are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.
Pet friendly
How do Karelian Bear Dog or Shih Apso dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Karelian Bear Dog or Shih Apso?
Karelian Bear Dog 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 Karelian Bear Dog and Shih Apso?
Karelian Bear Dogs 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 Karelian Bear Dogs and Shih Apsos compare?
Karelian Bear Dogs are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.
Shih Apsos are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.
