7 Facts About Lhasa Apsos You Probably Didn’t Know

Lhasa Apsos, known for their regal bearing and flowing coat, have a unique charm that sets them apart. These charismatic dogs from the Himalayan Mountains are often known for their distinctive looks, but there’s much more to this breed than what meets the eye. Let’s delve into seven surprising facts about Lhasa Apsos that you might not have known.

1. Historical Guardians

Despite their small size, Lhasa Apsos were bred to act as indoor sentinels in Tibetan monasteries. Their keen sense of hearing made them excellent watchdogs. Their role was not to attack intruders but to alert the larger Tibetan Mastiffs of any suspicious activities.

2. An Ancient Breed

One of the oldest recognized breeds, Lhasa Apsos have a history that dates back over a thousand years. They were named after the sacred city of Lhasa in Tibet and are revered in Tibetan culture, and are considered to bring good luck.

3. A Gift of Good Fortune

For many centuries, Lhasa Apsos were considered so valuable that they were never sold. The only way to get one was as a gift. This tradition was practiced as it was believed that giving away a Lhasa Apso would bring good fortune.

4. Delayed Puppies’ Maturity

Lhasa Apsos puppies take a longer time to mature compared to other breeds. They reach their full maturity only by the age of 3, whereas most breeds mature by the age of 1. This delayed maturity reflects in their training as well as they may be slower to housebreak than other breeds.

5. A Long-Living Breed

With an average lifespan of 12-15 years, and many living several years beyond that, Lhasa Apsos are one of the longest-living dog breeds. Proper care and regular vet checks can help these dogs enjoy long and healthy life.

6. An Independent Streak

Lhasa Apsos are known for their independent thinking, which some might perceive as stubbornness. This breed likes to assess situations for themselves, which is a remnant of their history as sentinel dogs. This can sometimes make training a challenge, but with patience and positive reinforcement, they can learn quickly.

7. Influencing the Shih Tzu Breed

While Lhasa Apsos and Shih Tzus may look similar and are both ancient Tibetan breeds, they are indeed separate breeds. However, Lhasa Apsos contributed to the creation of the Shih Tzu breed. The Chinese bred Lhasa Apsos they received as gifts from the Dalai Lama with their Pekingese to create the Shih Tzu breed.

In summary, Lhasa Apsos, with their independent and watchful character, offers a rich tapestry of intriguing facts that go beyond their recognizable charm. From their historical role as guardians, their ancient lineage, their status as tokens of good fortune, their delayed maturity, their impressive lifespan, and their independent nature, to their role in the creation of the Shih Tzu breed, these less-known facts provide a deeper understanding of this fascinating breed. Whether you’re a Lhasa Apso owner, or simply an enthusiast, these revelations invite a fresh appreciation of this endearing and enduring breed.