Shih Apso

The Lhasa Apso is a small, sturdy, well-balanced dog of ancient Tibetan origin that presents a distinctive silhouette defined by its magnificent coat. Standing ideally between ten and eleven inches at the shoulder with females slightly smaller, this breed exhibits a rectangular body shape that is longer than it is tall. The overall impression is one of substance without heaviness, with a level topline and a tail carried in a characteristic curl over the back, sometimes with a kink at the end. The breed possesses medium bone and adequate muscle to create a compact, hardy appearance suitable for its original role as a monastery sentinel. The head appears somewhat rounded due to the heavy fall of hair that covers the face and frames the features. The skull is narrow and domed, leading to a medium-length muzzle that ends in a black nose. The eyes are small, dark, and deeply set, often hidden beneath the abundant headfall that is characteristic of the breed. The ears hang down as pendants, heavily feathered with long hair that blends seamlessly into the coat. The teeth typically meet in a level bite or may be slightly undershot. The neck is well-arched and of sufficient length to carry the head proudly. The coat is the Lhasa Apso's most distinguishing characteristic and served historically to protect these dogs from the extreme temperatures of the Himalayan region. The double coat consists of a heavy, straight, hard outer layer that is dense and long, parting naturally in the middle from head to tail. The undercoat is moderate and provides additional insulation. The coat grows to floor length when fully maintained and requires extensive grooming. Colors include golden, sandy, honey, dark grizzle, slate, smoke, black, white, brown, and parti-color, with all colors equally acceptable. The feet are round, catlike, and well-feathered, providing protection on rough terrain.

The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy companion dog with a distinctive appearance that reflects its ancient Chinese heritage. Standing between nine and ten-and-a-half inches at the shoulder and weighing nine to sixteen pounds, this breed presents a compact, well-balanced silhouette that is slightly longer than it is tall. The overall impression is one of substance without coarseness, displaying a proud carriage with the head held high and the heavily plumed tail carried in a graceful curve over the back. The body is solid and well-proportioned with a deep chest and level topline. The head is one of the breed's most distinctive features, appearing round and broad with a short, square muzzle that gives the face a chrysanthemum-like appearance when viewed from the front. The eyes are large, dark, and prominent, set wide apart and conveying a warm, trusting expression. A notable characteristic is the undershot bite, which is required by the breed standard. The ears are large with long leather, set slightly below the crown of the skull, and covered in abundant hair that blends into the neck coat. The nose is always black, positioned at or slightly below eye level, though liver-colored dogs may have liver noses. The coat is the Shih Tzu's crowning glory, consisting of a luxurious double layer that is long, flowing, and dense. The outer coat is long and silky, while the undercoat provides insulation and volume. The hair grows in all directions on the face, creating the characteristic chrysanthemum pattern, with a distinct fall over the eyes and a full beard and whiskers. The coat accepts virtually any color, with white blazes on the forehead and white tail tips considered highly desirable in parti-colored specimens. When properly maintained, the coat flows to floor length, though many pet owners prefer shorter utility clips for easier maintenance.