What is the difference between a Golden Retriever and a Lhasa Apso?

The Golden Retriever is 55–75 lbs, 21–24 in sized while the Lhasa Apso is 12–18 lbs, 10–11 in sized. They differ in size (55–75 lbs, 21–24 in vs 12–18 lbs, 10–11 in), lifespan (10–12 years vs 12–15 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Golden Retriever or Lhasa Apso?

Golden Retriever is generally good with kids. Lhasa Apso is not typically good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Golden Retriever or Lhasa Apso?

The Golden Retriever has a lifespan of 10–12 years while the Lhasa Apso has a lifespan of 12–15 years.

Golden Retriever vs Lhasa Apso — Breed Comparison

About the Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever was developed in the Scottish Highlands by Lord Tweedmouth during the mid-19th century, who crossed a Yellow Retriever with the now-extinct Tweed Water Spaniel to create the ultimate waterfowl hunting companion. Standing 21.5–24 inches tall and weighing 55–75 pounds, these iconic dogs wear a lustrous, water-repellent double coat in shades ranging from light cream to deep gold. Their gentle expression, athletic build, and flowing feathered coat have made them one of the three most popular breeds in America for decades running.

Temperament & Personality

Golden Retrievers are the gold standard of family dogs — trustworthy, patient, and endlessly forgiving with children of all ages. They possess an innate desire to please that makes them exceptionally trainable and a joy to live with, whether as a first-time owner's companion or a seasoned handler's working partner. Their friendly, tolerant attitude extends to strangers, other dogs, and household pets — they seem to genuinely believe every person and animal they meet is a friend.

Pros

Universally gentle temperament — consistently ranked among the best breeds for families with children
Highly intelligent and eager to please — excel in obedience, therapy, service, and search and rescue
Patient and forgiving nature makes them ideal for first-time dog owners
Social and friendly with virtually everyone — dogs, cats, strangers, and guests alike

Cons

Cancer affects approximately 60% of Golden Retrievers — the highest rate of any breed
Heavy shedding year-round with seasonal coat blows that cover furniture and clothing
Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disease, and eye conditions
Mouthy breed — will carry and chew objects constantly, especially during puppyhood

There's a reason Goldens are America's favorite — find Golden Retrievers looking for homes on Puplister.

About the Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso — named after the sacred city of Lhasa in Tibet — served as an interior sentinel in Buddhist monasteries and noble households for over a thousand years, alerting monks to intruders with their sharp, penetrating bark. Standing 10–11 inches tall and weighing 12–18 pounds, these sturdy little dogs have a dense, floor-length double coat that parts down the middle of the back and comes in a wide range of colors including gold, cream, honey, smoke, slate, white, black, and parti-color. Their heavy coat, developed to insulate against Tibet's harsh mountain climate, gives them a dramatically different appearance from most toy breeds.

Temperament & Personality

Lhasa Apsos are independent, assertive, and surprisingly tough-minded — they are companion dogs with the heart of a watchdog and the confidence of a much larger breed. They are devoted and affectionate with their chosen family but maintain a regal aloofness with strangers that can take time to warm up from. Unlike many small breeds, Lhasas are not typically needy or clingy — they enjoy companionship on their own terms and are content to watch from across the room.

Pros

Excellent watchdogs — keen hearing and a sharp, authoritative bark that belies their small size
Independent nature means they handle alone time better than most companion breeds
Long lifespan of 12–15 years — one of the healthiest and hardiest small breeds
Hypoallergenic coat sheds minimally — well-suited for allergy-conscious households

Cons

Long coat demands daily brushing and regular professional grooming — or must be kept in a puppy clip
Can be stubborn and difficult to train — their independent streak resists repetitive drills
Tendency toward small dog syndrome — may become snappy or dominant without firm, consistent boundaries
Prone to kidney disease, cherry eye, and dry eye — regular veterinary monitoring is important

Discover the ancient charm and loyal spirit of the Lhasa Apso — find one waiting for you on Puplister.

Golden Retriever vs Lhasa Apso