STOP SCROLLING: ESPN's Michelle Beadle Is a Total Dog Fanatic—And Her Pug Love Will Win You Over!

Michelle Beadle—sports reporter, ESPN host, and huge dog devotee—talks rescue, being a woman in a famous boys' club, and why Pugs rule

Last refreshed: February 4, 2026

Michelle Beadle, sports reporter and co-host of ESPN's SportsNation, is a bold female voice in the guy-heavy world of sports journalism. That alone would win us over, but add in that she's the adoptive mom to three rescue dogs and is about to front one of our fave non-profits, Best Friends Animal Society, and we're hooked. Then factor her hilarious, no-filter Twitter (Michelle has over 1.1 million followers for a reason) and we're wishing she were our new BFF. We threw a few questions at the very cool Michelle. Read her answers below—we're pretty sure you'll adore her.

A: We've got four dogs: Leroy the Pug, Violet, a Plott Hound mix, Henry, who looks like a Springer with a dash of who-knows-what, and Stella, the baby, maybe part Jack Russell. Violet came with my boyfriend Steve; they adopted her in New York State about three years back. Henry was a Petco event find—because who can hit a Petco on a Saturday, see all those little faces, and keep walking? Henry was the one we scooped up and couldn't set back down. And Stella we call our little 'con artist.' Our dog walker got tailed home by this sweet, sneaky princess. I got home from work and there she was, chilling in the living room. No chip. Not spayed. No way I was taking her to a shelter, and here we are. Confession: I got Leroy at a pet store eight years ago in Manhattan. He's the best little dude ever, but the pet-store route died for me long ago. No regrets—and he's loving his 'big brother' role over the whole pack.

Snapshot: The Shih TzuLife on White

A: I've been a dog person for as far back as I can recall. I remember being 12 or 13, walking through a mall with my family when we passed a pet store. I went in and parked myself in front of a cage with a tiny Pug. And I sat. And sat. Till my folks realized I'd wandered off. When they showed up, I was crying over this little creature staring back at me. Total meltdown… Given the choice to hang with dogs over people, I pick pups every time. And when you meet another dog person, it's instant comfort. We 'get' each other.

Lhasa Apsos run a touch heavier than Shih Tzus—typically 12 to 18 pounds versus 9 to 16.

A: Rescuing dogs turned into a huge part of feeling like I can help, even a little. I'm the type who tears up the second I pass an adoption event, and until I buy a big plot of land and open a refuge, adopting these little monkeys is my best bet. I've picked up so much about pet adoption over the years. For ages I figured, like most, that a pure breed meant you had to buy. Now I spend free time scrolling Pug rescues, always hunting for puppy number five. I've told anyone who'll listen: adopt! You can find the perfect fit for your family, however quirky your taste, waiting at some shelter. Get online and do the legwork.

These two breeds resemble each other for a reason: they share ancestors! Centuries ago, imperial breeders in the Chinese emperor’s palace shaped the Shih Tzu from Tibetan stock, likely blending two older Sino-Tibetan breeds—the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese—according to the AKC.

Pic: The Lhasa ApsoPfotenweltfoto (stock)

A: The best and worst part of being a female sports broadcaster is probably near the same thing. I don't always clock that I'm a 'female' broadcaster, whether I'm arguing a rookie QB's worth, weighing odds on bitcoin sportsbooks, or breaking down front-office drama. But someone's always there to remind me. Being a woman in this game now feels fresh because so many of us are doing way more than ever. I've got a voice. And good or bad, I treasure that role.

Exercise Requirements Here's what you need to know.

Visual by The Shih TzuAntonIlchenko / Stock photo

A: The three traits that—keyword: think—have carried me: stubborn, thick-skinned, and balanced.

In the West, Shih Tzu is pronounced “sheed-zoo” or “sheet-su,” while the Chinese say “sher-zer”.

A: I'd be a Pug! Obviously. I am them; they are me. But real talk, I've always felt pulled to those squishy-faced furballs. I think we're both cute some days, scary-un-cute on others. We bank on personality and figure we're pretty funny. We're stubborn. Love to sleep. Love to eat even more. Sometimes we're social, but mostly want a little one-on-one. We're never quite sure if you're laughing at us or with us, and that's fine.

The Lhasa Apso is known for a floor-length, flat-lying coat parted down the middle and falling evenly along both sides, the AKC notes. A plumed tail curves up and over the back in the classic Tibetan style. Devoted fans swear those dark, oval eyes peeking through the luxe facial hair are windows to a Lhasa’s merry spirit.

Pic: The Lhasa ApsoLife on White (stock)

A Guide to shih tzu appearance

Shih Tzus are known for their long, silky coats, small stature, and charming faces. They have a distinctive appearance with button noses, large, expressive eyes, and floppy ears. Their coats come in various colours and patterns, and they’re often described as looking like “lion cubs” or “teddy bears.”

Photo courtesy of A Shih Tzu puppyJagodka

Differences Between the Shih Tzu & the Lhasa Apso

The Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso are both small, long-coated breeds that look much alike, yet their histories, temperaments, and builds set them apart.

The Truth About origin

Understanding temperament

The Lhasa Apso tends to be more independent and alert, with a naturally protective instinct. They can be wary of strangers and more aloof, making them better watchdogs.

In contrast, the Shih Tzu is generally more affectionate, sociable, and people-oriented, thriving on attention and companionship. Shih Tzus are typically friendlier with strangers and more eager to please.

Why appearance

Physically, the breeds are similar in size, but Lhasa Apsos are slightly longer-bodied and more solid. Shih Tzus usually have a shorter muzzle, giving them a flatter face (brachycephalic), which can lead to breathing issues.

Lhasas have a longer muzzle and a straighter nose, generally leading to fewer respiratory problems.

Coat Type and Grooming Needs

Both breeds have long, luxurious coats that require regular grooming, but the Lhasa Apso’s coat is typically denser and coarser, while the Shih Tzu’s is silkier. Their grooming needs are high, and many owners opt for shorter ‘puppy cuts’ for easier maintenance.

Though they’re easy to mix up at a glance, the Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso part ways in their original jobs, their personalities, and a few quiet physical differences.

Interested in dog breeds? Check out more of our dog breed content here!