Koolie vs. Shih Apso: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Koolies or Shih Apsos hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Koolie 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 Koolie and Shih Apso dogs?

Dominant
Dedicated
Temperate
Diligent
Intelligent
Affectionate

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

Shedding Level

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

3 / 5

Koolie 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 Koolie 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 Koolie or Shih Apso?

4 / 5

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

1 / 5

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

Ancestry

What are the origins of Koolie and Shih Apso breeds?

Collie-type Herding Dog, Dingo

Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Koolie and Shih Apso?

America's Pet Registry
Australian National Kennel Council
Dog Registry of America Inc.

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®

Date of Birth

When were Koolie and Shih Apso breeds first developed?

1800s

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Koolie and Shih Apso dogs?

Blue
Hazel
Brown
Amber

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Koolie and Shih Apso?

Blue
Black
Brown
Isabella

Black

Coat Length

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

1 / 5

Koolies have short coats.

5 / 5

Shih Apsos are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Koolie and Shih Apso?

2 / 5

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Koolie and Shih Apso?

Straight

Wavy

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Koolie and Shih Apso?

A Koolie can have a litter of 16-18 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 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

4 / 5

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

5 / 5

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

Health Issues

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

3 / 5

Koolie and Shih Apso 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 Koolie and Shih Apso breeds?

Deafness
Congenital Eye Defects

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 Koolie and Shih Apso?

Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd)
Skin Allergies

Ear Infections
Allergies
Eye Disease
Hernia
Reverse Sneezing
Dental Problems

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Koolie and Shih Apso breeds?

Skin Evaluation
Eye Examinations
BAER Testing
X-rays or other radiographic imaging

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

Energy

How do the energy levels of Koolies and Shih Apsos compare?

4 / 5

Koolies' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

2 / 5

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

Social Needs

Koolie vs Shih Apso social needs comparison

4 / 5

Koolie and Shih Apso 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

Koolie vs Shih Apso exercise need comparison.

4 / 5

Koolies require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

2 / 5

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: Koolie or Shih Apso?

2 / 5

Koolies sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

3 / 5

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

Tendency to Bark

Do Koolies or Shih Apsos bark more/less frequently?

3 / 5

Koolies bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

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.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Koolie vs Shih Apso?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Koolie vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

2 / 5

Prey Drive

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

3 / 5

4 / 5

Past times

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

Herding

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, Koolies or Shih Apsos?

Koolies 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.

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

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Koolie or Shih Apso walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Koolie, it's at least 15 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 Shih Apso, it's at least 4 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Koolies or Shih Apsos require more exercise?

In general most Koolies usually need at least 90 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 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, Koolies or Shih Apsos?

2 / 5

The Koolie has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

5 / 5

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 Koolie and Shih Apso dogs?

Koolie 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

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 Koolies and Shih Apsos?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Dematter
Comb
Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Koolie or Shih Apso in cups?

For an average 33-53 pound (15 - 24 kg) Koolie 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.

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, Koolie or Shih Apso?

The average cost of a Koolie is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per 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, Koolie or Shih Apso?

The average per month expenses of a Koolie 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.

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: Koolies vs Shih Apsos

3 / 5

Koolies are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

2 / 5

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

Sensitivity Level

How do Koolie and Shih Apso compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

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

5 / 5

3 / 5

Apartment Friendly

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

3 / 5

Koolies are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

5 / 5

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

Child Friendly

Do Koolies or Shih Apsos have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Koolie and Shih Apso 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 - Koolie or Shih Apso?

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

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

3 / 5

Koolies are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

5 / 5

Shih Apsos are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

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

3 / 5

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

5 / 5

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

Pet friendly

How do Koolie or Shih Apso dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Stranger Friendly

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

2 / 5

Koolies are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

3 / 5

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

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Koolie and Shih Apso?

3 / 5

Koolie and Shih Apso have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Koolies and Shih Apsos compare?

3 / 5

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