Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu Mix: Complete Breed Guide for Prospective Owners

If you've fallen for the charm of small, long-coated companion dogs, you've likely encountered the Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu mix — sometimes called the Shih Apso or Lhasa Tzu. This designer cross blends two ancient Tibetan and Chinese palace breeds into a compact, affectionate companion. But unlike purebreds with predictable breed standards, mixed breeds come with a range of possible outcomes. This guide breaks down exactly what you can (and can't) expect from this cross so you can decide whether it's the right fit for your household.

The Parent Breeds: Where This Mix Comes From

Understanding a designer dog starts with understanding its parents. Both the Lhasa Apso and the Shih Tzu share Tibetan monastery origins, but centuries of separate development in different cultures produced distinct breeds.

Parent Breed Comparison: Lhasa Apso vs. Shih Tzu

Trait	Lhasa Apso	Shih Tzu
Origin	Tibet — monastery sentinel dogs	China — imperial palace companions (crossed with Pugs/Pekingese)
AKC Group	Non-Sporting	Toy
Weight	12–18 lb (5.4–8.2 kg)	9–16 lb (4.1–7.3 kg)
Height	10–11 in (25–28 cm)	9–10.5 in (23–27 cm)
Temperament	Alert, independent, wary of strangers	Outgoing, affectionate, playful
Coat	Heavy, straight, dense double coat	Long, flowing, slightly wavy double coat
Shedding	Low	Low
Lifespan	12–15 years	10–18 years
Barking Level	Moderate to high	Moderate
Trainability	Moderate — can be stubborn	Moderate — food-motivated but easily distracted

The Lhasa Apso was bred to alert monks to intruders, which explains its watchdog instincts and suspicion of strangers. The Shih Tzu, by contrast, was bred purely for companionship in Chinese imperial courts. When you cross these two, you get a dog that can land anywhere on the spectrum between aloof sentinel and gregarious lap dog.

Understanding Generations: F1, F1B, and Beyond

Size, Build, and Physical Appearance

Because both parent breeds are small and close in size, the Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu mix doesn't carry the dramatic size variability you see in crosses between large and small breeds. Still, there's a meaningful range.

Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu Mix: Expected Size Range

Measurement	Minimum	Maximum	Most Common
Weight	9 lb (4.1 kg)	18 lb (8.2 kg)	12–15 lb (5.4–6.8 kg)
Height at shoulder	9 in (23 cm)	11.5 in (29 cm)	10–11 in (25–28 cm)
Body length	14 in (36 cm)	19 in (48 cm)	15–17 in (38–43 cm)

Most Shih Apsos have a slightly longer-than-tall build inherited from both parents, with a sturdy bone structure that makes them feel heavier than they look. Head shape varies considerably: some inherit the Shih Tzu's brachycephalic (short-muzzled) face, while others get the Lhasa Apso's slightly longer muzzle. This distinction matters for health — we'll cover brachycephalic risks below.

Coat Types, Colors, and the Low-Shedding Question

Both parent breeds carry a long, dense double coat with low shedding, and most Shih Apsos inherit a similar coat. However, the specific texture and maintenance requirements vary.

Is the Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu mix hypoallergenic? No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but this mix is considered low-shedding and may produce fewer airborne allergens than heavy-shedding breeds. Both parent breeds score well for allergy-sensitive households. However, allergens come from dander and saliva, not just shed hair — so spending time with the specific dog before committing is essential. According to the American Kennel Club, no breed is guaranteed allergen-free.

Common coat colors include gold, cream, black, white, liver, brindle, and parti-color (white with patches). Many Shih Apsos darken or lighten as they mature — a puppy that appears solid black at 8 weeks may develop silver or brown tipping by adulthood.

Temperament: What Personality Will You Get?

Temperament is where the Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu mix shows the widest variability. Because the parent breeds have meaningfully different social styles, puppies can inherit any blend of the following traits:

Temperament Variability in the Shih Apso

Trait	Leaning Lhasa Apso	Leaning Shih Tzu	Blended (Most Common)
Stranger reaction	Reserved, barks at newcomers, takes time to warm up	Greeting everyone like a long-lost friend	Initially cautious, warms up within 10–15 minutes
Independence	Content alone for moderate periods, self-entertaining	Velcro dog, follows you room to room	Enjoys company but can handle 2–3 hours alone
Playfulness	Bursts of energy, then done	Sustained playfulness, always up for games	Moderate play drive, enjoys interactive toys
Stubbornness	High — "what's in it for me?" attitude	Moderate — distractible but willing	Moderate — responds to food motivation
Watchdog instinct	Alert barking at every sound	May bark, may not notice	Alert bark at door knocks, settles quickly
Child tolerance	Low tolerance for rough handling	Generally patient and forgiving	Tolerant of gentle children, not suited for toddlers

Health Considerations: Separating Myth From Reality

Let's address a common misconception head-on: hybrid vigor does not eliminate health risks. The concept of heterosis (hybrid vigor) applies primarily to traits controlled by many genes — like overall vitality and fertility. It does not protect against inherited conditions that both parent breeds share. Since the Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu share several genetic health risks, their mix can inherit any of them.

Conditions This Mix May Inherit

Health Risks in the Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu Mix

Condition	Description	Prevalence in Parent Breeds	Screening Available
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)	Restricted airways due to shortened skull shape. Causes snoring, exercise intolerance, heat sensitivity, and breathing difficulty.	Common in Shih Tzus (moderate-to-severe); less common in Lhasa Apsos (mild). Risk depends on which muzzle type the mix inherits.	Veterinary airway assessment; no genetic test
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)	Gradual degeneration of the retina leading to blindness. Onset typically between 3–8 years.	Both breeds carry PRA genes. Estimated 5–10% carrier rate across both breeds.	DNA test available (Optigen prcd-PRA); responsible breeders test both parents
Hip Dysplasia	Malformed hip joint causing pain, arthritis, and mobility issues.	Present in both breeds at moderate rates (~8–12% per OFA data).	OFA or PennHIP radiographic screening of parents
Patellar Luxation	Kneecap slides out of position, causing intermittent lameness or "skipping" gait.	Common in both small breeds. Grade I–II often manageable; Grade III–IV may require surgery ($1,500–$3,500 per knee).	Orthopedic exam; OFA patella evaluation
Renal Dysplasia	Abnormal kidney development leading to chronic kidney disease, sometimes manifesting in young dogs (under 5 years).	Shih Tzus have a known hereditary form. Lhasa Apsos are less commonly affected but not immune.	No reliable DNA test; diagnosis via bloodwork, urinalysis, and ultrasound
Dental Disease	Crowded teeth in a small mouth lead to rapid plaque buildup, gingivitis, and tooth loss.	Nearly universal in both breeds by age 5 without dental care.	Regular veterinary dental cleanings ($300–$800 per session under anesthesia)
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)	Degeneration or herniation of spinal discs, causing pain, weakness, or paralysis.	Both breeds have chondrodystrophic tendencies (disc degeneration). Risk increases with obesity and jumping from heights.	No preventive screening; manage via weight control and activity modification

What to ask a breeder: Request documentation of OFA hip and patella evaluations, PRA DNA test results (both parents clear or one clear/one carrier acceptable with disclosure), and a current CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation) eye exam. For Shih Tzu lineage, ask about renal function testing in the breeding line. Consult your veterinarian about establishing a health monitoring schedule tailored to this mix's specific risk profile.

Expected Lifespan

Most Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu mixes live 12–16 years, with some individuals reaching 17–18 years with excellent care. The wide lifespan range in the Shih Tzu parent (10–18 years per Merck Veterinary Manual) means longevity can vary significantly between individual dogs.

Grooming and Daily Care Requirements

This mix demands a genuine grooming commitment. Here's a realistic breakdown based on coat type:

Weekly Grooming Schedule

• Full coat (long, untrimmed): Brush 4–5 times per week using a slicker brush followed by a metal comb. Pay special attention to behind the ears, armpits, and the "skirt" along the belly. Budget 20–30 minutes per session.
• Puppy cut (trimmed to 1–2 inches): Brush 2–3 times per week. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks ($50–$90 per session depending on your region).
• Ears: Check and clean weekly with a veterinarian-recommended ear cleanser. Both parent breeds have drop ears prone to infection — moisture and hair in the ear canal create an ideal environment for yeast and bacterial overgrowth.
• Eyes: Wipe daily with a damp cloth. Shih Tzu-influenced mixes are prone to epiphora (tear staining) due to shallow eye sockets and facial hair wicking moisture. Products like Angels' Eyes or plain cornstarch applied to the tear track can help manage staining.
• Nails: Trim every 2–3 weeks. Many Shih Apsos resist nail trimming — start handling paws during the first week home and use high-value treats (freeze-dried liver, small cheese pieces) to build positive associations.
• Teeth: Brush daily or at minimum 4 times per week with enzymatic dog toothpaste. Given this mix's high dental disease risk, daily brushing is strongly recommended. Veterinary dental cleanings under anesthesia will likely be needed every 1–2 years starting around age 3–4.

Exercise, Training, and Mental Stimulation

Don't let the small size fool you — this mix needs genuine daily activity, though not marathon-level exercise.

Exercise Requirements

• Daily walks: 25–40 minutes total, split into two sessions. Morning and evening walks work well. Avoid midday walks in heat above 80°F (27°C), especially for dogs with shorter muzzles.
• Indoor play: 15–20 minutes of interactive play (fetch, tug, puzzle toys) on days when outdoor walks are shortened.
• Total daily activity: 40–60 minutes of combined physical and mental exercise.

Training Approach

Both parent breeds are intelligent but independent-minded. Force-free, positive reinforcement methods work best — specifically marker-based training (clicker or verbal "yes!") paired with food rewards. Keep sessions short (5–8 minutes) and end on a success. Common training challenges include:

• Housebreaking: Small breeds have smaller bladders and can be notoriously slow to house-train. Expect 4–8 months of consistent crate training and scheduled potty breaks (every 1–2 hours for puppies under 4 months). Indoor grass pads can help during extreme weather.
• Barking: If your mix inherits the Lhasa Apso's watchdog instincts, teach a "quiet" cue early. Reward silence after an alert bark rather than punishing the bark itself.
• Recall: Both breeds can be unreliable off-leash. Train recall in fenced areas with high-value rewards and never rely on recall in unfenced spaces near roads.
• Handling sensitivity: Grooming-heavy breeds need early desensitization to brushing, ear cleaning, and nail trimming. Pair each handling activity with treats to prevent grooming-time battles.

Cost: Purchase Price, Annual Expenses, and Where to Find One

Puppy Purchase Price

Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu Mix: Price Ranges

Source	Price Range	What's Typically Included
Reputable small breeder (health-tested parents)	$800–$2,000	First vaccinations, deworming, microchip, health records, spay/neuter contract, take-back clause
Casual/backyard breeder (no health testing)	$300–$700	May include first shots; often no health documentation or genetic screening
Puppy mill/pet store source	$500–$1,200	Minimal health documentation; high risk of inherited conditions and poor early socialization
Rescue/adoption	$150–$400	Spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchip, basic vet exam

Availability note: This is not one of the most common designer mixes (unlike Labradoodles or Goldendoodles). Dedicated breeders specifically producing Lhasa Apso × Shih Tzu crosses are relatively rare. You're more likely to find this mix through small hobby breeders who occasionally cross their own Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu, or through breed-specific rescues that occasionally receive mixed-breed dogs. Check Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso rescue organizations — they sometimes take in mixes.

Estimated Annual Costs

• Food: $250–$450/year (premium small-breed kibble or balanced fresh food; 1/2 to 3/4 cup per day depending on weight and activity)
• Routine veterinary care: $400–$800/year (annual exam, vaccines, heartworm test, fecal exam)
• Preventive medications: $200–$400/year (heartworm, flea/tick prevention)
• Grooming: $300–$700/year (professional grooming every 6–8 weeks if kept in a trimmed coat; higher for full-coat maintenance)
• Dental cleanings: $300–$800 every 1–2 years under anesthesia
• Pet insurance: $30–$55/month ($360–$660/year) for accident/illness coverage — recommended given the inherited health risks listed above
• First-year total estimate: $2,500–$4,500 (including puppy purchase, initial supplies, spay/neuter, and first-year care)
• Ongoing annual cost (years 2+): $1,500–$3,000/year

Who Is This Mix Best Suited For?

The Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu mix thrives in specific household setups. Here's a realistic assessment:

Frequently Asked Questions

What two breeds make up the Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu mix?

The Lhasa Apso (a Tibetan monastery sentinel dog) and the Shih Tzu (a Chinese imperial palace companion). Both are ancient small breeds with long double coats, but they differ meaningfully in temperament — the Lhasa Apso is more independent and alert, while the Shih Tzu is more outgoing and people-oriented.

How big will a Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu mix get?

Most adults weigh between 12–15 lb (5.4–6.8 kg) and stand 10–11 inches (25–28 cm) at the shoulder. The full range spans 9–18 lb (4.1–8.2 kg) depending on which parent's size genes dominate and the individual puppy's nutrition during growth.

Is the Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu mix hypoallergenic?

No dog is truly hypoallergenic. However, this mix is low-shedding and may suit some allergy-sensitive households. Both parent breeds produce less airborne dander than heavy-shedding breeds. Always spend time with the specific dog before committing — allergen response is individual.

What health issues might this mix inherit?

Key risks include brachycephalic airway syndrome (if the Shih Tzu's short muzzle is inherited), progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, renal dysplasia (primarily from the Shih Tzu line), dental disease, and intervertebral disc disease. Health-tested parents reduce but do not eliminate these risks.

How much does a Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu mix cost?

Expect to pay $800–$2,000 from a reputable breeder who health-tests both parents. Rescue adoption fees typically range from $150–$400. Annual care costs run $1,500–$3,000 per year including food, veterinary care, grooming, and preventive medications.

Are Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu mixes good with children?

They can be good with gentle, respectful children aged 8 and older. Their small size (under 18 lb) makes them fragile — a toddler picking up or squeezing the dog can cause injury. Both parent breeds also tend to have low tolerance for ear-pulling or tail-grabbing. Always supervise interactions between any dog and young children.

Do Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu mixes bark a lot?

It depends on which parent's temperament dominates. Lhasa Apso-leaning dogs tend to be more vocal, alerting to doorbells, footsteps, and unfamiliar sounds. Shih Tzu-leaning dogs are generally quieter. Most mixes fall somewhere in between — expect moderate alert barking that can be managed with training.