Thinking about Lhasa Apso dogs as a companion?
Get to know this popular dog breed before you buy!

 

Size
Exercise
Grooming

Height: up to 25cm (10-11 inches)
Weight: 5-8 kg (12-18 pounds)

Group
American Kennel Club: Non-sporting
The Kennel Club (UK): Utility
Australian National Kennel Council: Non-sporting

Lifespan: 14-17 years

Who are Lhasa Apso dogs?

A small, hardy breed of dog with a beautiful long coat, Lhasa Apsos are cheerful and mischievous and make excellent family pets.

History of the Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apso dogs originated in Tibet, probably around 800BC.

They are one of the most ancient dog breeds and are closely related to the Asian wolf. They are related to other Tibetan and Chinese dogs such as Pekingese and Shih Tzus.

The word 'apso' means 'bearded' or 'long-haired' and Lhasa is the capital of Tibet, so Lhasa Apso really just means 'long-haired dog from Lhasa'. They come in any coat colour, from blonde to black.

Lhasas were mainly used as household companions and watchdogs in wealthy homes and monasteries. Today, owners find the little dog's keen hearing and surprisingly deep bark will alert them to any strangers about the house.

This breed is loyal to its family members but may be a little stand-offish with strangers.

 

Personality

• Joyful
• Mischievous
• Alert
• Aloof with strangers
• Intelligent

Good with children?

Yes - Lhasa Apso dogs bond closely with their families.

Exercise needs

Minimal – as a house dog, Lhasa Apso puppies don’t need a lot of exercise but need a regular walk and they love games.

Health

As an ancient breed, they have very few health problems and are known to be hardy. Some Lhasas have even lived into their early 20s!

Possible health problems

Progressive retinal atrophy or PRA (a retinal disease that can affect all breeds of dogs, leading to night blindness and gradual loss of day vision)

Grooming

If you choose to keep your Lhasa in full, long coat, you will need to do a lot of grooming! Many people prefer to keep their pets clipped shorter in ‘puppy’ or ‘pet’ clip.

The Lhasa’s double coat protects the dog from Tibet’s cold winds and bright sun. The long hair over the eyes also helped to protect the dog from dust and sun.

Ideal owner 

The ideal Lhasa Apso owner will keep their dog mostly indoors and will need to be prepared to either groom regularly or have their pet clipped every few weeks.

Lhasa Apso dogs will thrive in a family atmosphere and their affectionate, happy-go-lucky attitude endears them to owners across the world.

 

 

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