Major concerns: None
Life span: 12 – 14 years
Avg Size of Male: Height: 10-11 inches, Weight: 13-15 pounds
Avg Size of Female: Height: 10-11 inches, Weight: 13-15 pounds
Suggested tests: Knee, eye
Minor concerns: Patellar luxation, entropion, distichiasis, PRA, renal cortical hypoplasia
Occasionally seen: CHD, urolithiasis, vWD
Brief History on Lhasa Apso Origin
The Lhasa Apso originated in the remote mountains of Tibet, near the city of Lhasa. This is where they were first bred as companions and watchdogs for temples, palaces and monasteries. The breed is remarkably intelligent, it has a sharp bark, very good hearing and a natural ability to distinguish someone who may be a potential threat, which made them the perfect for this line of work. The true origin of the Lhasa Apso is somewhat unclear. Some theories suggest that the smallest puppies of the Tibetan Terrier sheepdog litters, which had very short legs, were given to the monks and became the foundation for the breed. Others say that this is a mere presumption. In the 1930s the breed had finally reached America and by 1935, it was registered with the AKC. Surprisingly, they mistakenly placed it in the terrier group. The Lhasa Apso is actually not a type of terrier, a while afterward in 1959, the AKC placed it into a non sporting group.
Lhasa Apso Breed Appearance
The Lhasa Apso is small in size, but strong and assertive nonetheless. This breed features an athletic loin and quarters. The muzzle is longer than it is wide, and the dark eyes are small and offer an alert and devoted expression. There is usually feathering around the ears and tail, the tail is held high above the back. The dog has quite a bit of hair around the neck area, giving it the lion-like appearance that was often times referred to by the Tibetans. The coat flows smoothly over the head and eyes, into a bushy beard and whiskers. The overall appearance is quite similar of the Old English Sheepdog. The double coat is straight and so long that it normally brushes the floor. The Lhasa Apso come in a large variety of colors. Such as gold, cream, honey, grey, multicolor combinations of white, and also brown and black.
Lhasa Apso Breed Temperament
The Lhasa Apsos bark is loud enough to come from a much larger breed. Faithful and loving to its family and very weary of strangers, this breed is a great watchdog in a small package. It is also gentle, intelligent, friendly, stubborn, independent and brave. Those hard headed qualities can very easily become disobedience if consistent, firm training is neglected. The Lhasa Apso thrives on attention and play, although it should be noted that it dislikes being roughhoused or teased by children. Its acute hearing and persistent bark make it too noisy for some. This breed particularly likes to travel with its family. It is a born companion, at home and on the road.
Lhasa Apso Breed Maintenance
The Lhasa Apso will require a daily brushing to keep a tangle-free outer coat, and a smooth, matte-free undercoat. The feet should also be checked for matting on a regular basis. The eyes and ears require grooming regularly. This breed is considered to be an average shedder. Some owners opt to clip their dogs to reduce the maintenance and upkeep. The Lhasa Apso is lively and playful indoors and loves games, indoor play may often reach its exercise requirements. Although, to keep the dog in good spirits and mental health, outdoor excursions are recommended. This breed is an excellent apartment dog if its barking it kept under control.
Toledo, United States.
