Lhasa Apso Breed Information




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Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is known in his native Tibet as "Apso Seng Kye," which translates literally as "Hairy Lion Dog". The Tibetans refer to this dog simply as the Apso, pronounced "Apsok". This is one of the most ancient companion breeds, having been kept by Tibetan monks for many centuries in the isolation of their great monasteries. These dogs were pure-bred and jealously guarded from outside influence. Their main purpose was to guard the household of their masters while the Tibetan Mastiff guarded the grounds. Considered a "holy dog," Lhasas was often presented as a gift to visitors as a token of luck.

The history of Lhasa Apso is still unknown. It is believed that many centuries ago the smallest puppies of the sheep-herding Tibetan Terriers were given to the monks as monastery dogs. These little animals whose legs were too short for herding sheep became the foundation stock of the Lhasa Apso breed. Because they were so closely guarded in Tibet, Apso arrived in the West in the late 19th century.

This long-coated fellow makes an excellent apartment dog. Lhasas are very long-lived, playful and affectionate. Their independent and stubborn nature requires patience and understanding. In general, Lhasas are very eager to please, although some are aloof and haughty. They need to be trained with positive reinforcement — lots of praise and rewards. Intensely loyal to their family, they are a small dog with a big heart!

Photo courtesy of: Dar Tibetu

Lhasa Apso Breed Outline

Country of Origin:	Tibet
FCI Classification:	Group 9 - Companion and Toy Dogs; Tibetan breeds (without working trial)
Utilization:	Toy Dog
AKC Classification:	Non-Sporting Group
Size Category:	Small
Height:	10-11 inches at shoulders
Personality:	Intelligent, alert, watchful, assertive, regal little dog. Ideal watchdog. Big dog personality in small package.
Colors:	Golden, sandy, honey, dark grizzle, slate, smoke, parti-colour, black, white or brown. All equally acceptable.
Other Names:
Average Litter Size:	4
Life Span:	10-15 years
Grooming Requirements:	High. Daily brushing and combing (metal comb required) to prevent undercoat from matting. Bathe every 7-14 days. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.
Shedding:	Little
Social skills:	Gets along well with other animals.
Suitability for Children:	Very good with children.
Exercise Needs:	They are content to play at home or take a walk on a leash.
Train Ability:	Stubborn and reacts poorly to harsh language. Start obedience training early.
Health & Behavior Issues:	Responsible breeders will screen their Lhasa Apsos for genetic eye problems (keratoconjunctivitis sicca, PRA, cataracts), as well skin and bone problems (atopy, patellar luxation).