Shih Apso vs. Belgian Sheepdog: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Shih Apsos or Belgian Sheepdogs hypoallergenic, or neither?

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

Temperament

What are the personalities of Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog dogs?

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

Active
Confident
Hard
Working
Stubborn
Intelligent
Alert
Friendly
Protective
Watchful

Shedding Level

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

3 / 5

Shih Apso or Belgian Sheepdog 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 Shih Apso or Belgian Sheepdog. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Watchdog Ability

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

1 / 5

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

5 / 5

Choose a Belgian Sheepdog if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog breeds?

Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu

Shepherd Dog

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog?

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®

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

Date of Birth

When were Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog breeds first developed?

Unknown

1800s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog?

Black

Black

Coat Length

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

5 / 5

Shih Apsos are known for their coat length.

4 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog?

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog?

Wavy

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog?

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.

A Belgian Sheepdog can have a litter of 12-14 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

5 / 5

Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdogs 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 Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog 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 Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog breeds?

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

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia
Hypothyroidism
Cancer

Minor Concerns

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

Ear Infections
Allergies
Eye Disease
Hernia
Reverse Sneezing
Dental Problems

Cataracts
Epilepsy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog breeds?

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

Blood Test
Hip X-Rays
Thyroid Tests
MRI
Eye Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Shih Apsos and Belgian Sheepdogs compare?

2 / 5

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

5 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Social Needs

Shih Apso vs Belgian Sheepdog social needs comparison

4 / 5

Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog 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.

Exercise Needed

Shih Apso vs Belgian Sheepdog exercise need comparison.

2 / 5

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

5 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Sleeping Need

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

3 / 5

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

1 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Tendency to Bark

Do Shih Apsos or Belgian Sheepdogs bark more/less frequently?

2 / 5

Shih Apso dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

5 / 5

Belgian Sheepdog dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Shih Apso vs Belgian Sheepdog?

4 / 5

2 / 5

Roaming urge

Shih Apso vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

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

4 / 5

1 / 5

Past times

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

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

Playing Ball, Walk, Run, Keep away, Hike, Swim, Frizbee, Canoeing, Chase, Long walks, Hiking, Eating Snacks

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Shih Apsos or Belgian Sheepdogs?

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.

Belgian Sheepdogs 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.

Tolerance of being left alone

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Shih Apso or Belgian Sheepdog walk each 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.

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

Activity per Day

Do Shih Apsos or Belgian Sheepdogs require more exercise?

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.

In general most Belgian Sheepdogs 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.

Grooming

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

5 / 5

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

3 / 5

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

Brushing Frequency

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

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

Belgian Sheepdog 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

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Shih Apsos and Belgian Sheepdogs?

Slicker Brush
Dematter
Comb
Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Shih Apso or Belgian Sheepdog in 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.

For an average 55-75 pound (25 - 34 kg) Belgian Sheepdog 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.

Daily Cost

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

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

The average cost of a Belgian Sheepdog is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

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

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.

The average per month expenses of a Belgian Sheepdog 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.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Shih Apsos vs Belgian Sheepdogs

2 / 5

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

4 / 5

Belgian Sheepdog is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

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

Affection Dependance

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

3 / 5

4 / 5

Apartment Friendly

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

5 / 5

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

2 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Child Friendly

Do Shih Apsos or Belgian Sheepdogs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

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

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

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

5 / 5

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

Dog Friendly

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

5 / 5

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

3 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do Shih Apso or Belgian Sheepdog dogs interact with other pets?

5 / 5

Stranger Friendly

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

3 / 5

Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog 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 Shih Apso and Belgian Sheepdog?

3 / 5

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

5 / 5

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

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Shih Apsos and Belgian Sheepdogs compare?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Belgian Sheepdogs are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.