Shih Apso vs. Muscle Mastiff: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Shih Apsos or Muscle Mastiffs hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Shih Apso nor Muscle Mastiff 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 Muscle Mastiff dogs?

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

Protective
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Affectionate
Loyal
Devoted
Outright
Tempered
Companionable
Cheerful
Vigilant

Shedding Level

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

3 / 5

Shih Apso or Muscle Mastiff 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 Muscle Mastiff. 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 Muscle Mastiff?

1 / 5

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

4 / 5

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

Ancestry

What are the origins of Shih Apso and Muscle Mastiff breeds?

Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu

Mastiff, Dogue de Bordeaux

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Shih Apso and Muscle Mastiff?

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®

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

Date of Birth

When were Shih Apso and Muscle Mastiff breeds first developed?

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Shih Apso and Muscle Mastiff dogs?

Brown

Hazel
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Shih Apso and Muscle Mastiff?

Black

Black
Isabella

Coat Length

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

5 / 5

Shih Apsos are known for their coat length.

1 / 5

Muscle Mastiffs have short coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Shih Apso and Muscle Mastiff?

5 / 5

1 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Shih Apso and Muscle Mastiff?

Wavy

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Shih Apso and Muscle Mastiff?

Shih Apso and Muscle Mastiff, can have a litter of 4-6 puppies each on average. Nonetheless, it's important to keep in mind that litter size can differ significantly between individual dogs. Various factors such as the mother's health, breeding history, and genetics can have an impact on litter size.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Shih Apsos are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

4 / 5

Muscle Mastiffs are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

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

3 / 5

While the Shih Apso breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

5 / 5

The Muscle Mastiff breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

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

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

Gastric Torsion
Hip Dysplasia
Heart Disease
Cancer
Brachycephalic Syndrome

Minor Concerns

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

Ear Infections
Allergies
Eye Disease
Hernia
Reverse Sneezing
Dental Problems

Entropion
Ectropion
Elbow Dysplasia
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Retinal Dysplasia
Bloat
Ichthyosis
Eye conditions

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Shih Apso and Muscle Mastiff breeds?

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

Eye
Hip
Elbow
Heart
Thyroid Tests
Skin Scraping
Respiratory Tests
Blood Analysis

Energy

How do the energy levels of Shih Apsos and Muscle Mastiffs compare?

2 / 5

Shih Apso and Muscle Mastiff breeds may be a good choice for those who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle. They tend to have a lower energy level than other breeds of dogs.

Social Needs

Shih Apso vs Muscle Mastiff social needs comparison

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

Muscle Mastiff has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Exercise Needed

Shih Apso vs Muscle Mastiff 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.

3 / 5

Muscle Mastiffs need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

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

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Muscle Mastiffs are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.

Tendency to Bark

Do Shih Apsos or Muscle Mastiffs bark more/less frequently?

2 / 5

Compared to most other breeds, Shih Apso and Muscle Mastiff 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: Shih Apso vs Muscle Mastiff?

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Shih Apso vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

2 / 5

1 / 5

Prey Drive

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

4 / 5

3 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Shih Apso and Muscle Mastiff 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 fetch

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Shih Apsos or Muscle Mastiffs?

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.

Muscle Mastiffs 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.

Tolerance of being left alone

2 / 5

3 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Shih Apso or Muscle Mastiff 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 Muscle Mastiff, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Shih Apsos or Muscle Mastiffs 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 Muscle Mastiffs 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 Muscle Mastiffs?

5 / 5

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

2 / 5

The Muscle Mastiff has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

Brushing Frequency

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

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

Muscle Mastiff 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 Muscle Mastiffs?

Slicker Brush
Dematter
Comb
Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Shih Apso or Muscle Mastiff 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 144-190 pound (65 - 86 kg) Muscle Mastiff feed 6 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 Muscle Mastiff?

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

The average cost of a Muscle Mastiff is somewhere $5.60 - $7.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

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

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 Muscle Mastiff is between $168 - $210. This makes an average of $2016 - $2520 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 Muscle Mastiffs

2 / 5

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

1 / 5

Muscle Mastiff is an independent and stubborn breed with low obedience intelligence, making training a test of patience.

Sensitivity Level

How do Shih Apso and Muscle Mastiff compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Shih Apso and Muscle Mastiff 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 Muscle Mastiff?

3 / 5

Apartment Friendly

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

5 / 5

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

2 / 5

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

Child Friendly

Do Shih Apsos or Muscle Mastiffs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

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

5 / 5

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

Senior-friendly

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

4 / 5

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

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

5 / 5

Shih Apsos and Muscle Mastiffs 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 Muscle Mastiff?

5 / 5

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

4 / 5

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

Pet friendly

How do Shih Apso or Muscle Mastiff dogs interact with other pets?

5 / 5

Stranger Friendly

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

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

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

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Shih Apso and Muscle Mastiff?

3 / 5

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

2 / 5

Muscle Mastiffs are not known for being a highly playful breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Shih Apsos and Muscle Mastiffs compare?

3 / 5

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