Description

The Lhasa Apso has a long, heavy, double coat, draping over his entire body to the floor. This shaggy little dog looks like a small version of the Old English Sheepdog. Gold, cream, and honey are the most popular colors, but the coat also comes in smoke, dark-grizzle, slate and a multi-color assortment of brown, white & black. It is common for a Lhasa Apso puppy's coat to change colors as it grows. The coat is straight, hard and heavy, but not silky. The hair should cascade from the head over its eyes. It should have a dark beard and mustache, and a muzzle that is medium-length, but not square. It has small, dark, deep-set eyes and heavy feathered ears. Its neck has an abundant scarf of hair and its tail is feathered and carried over its back.

Origin

The land of Tibet was the home of the Lhasa Apso - the breed taking its name from the sacred city of Lhasa. For at least two thousand years the breed was only bred in Tibet by holy men and nobles. It was used as a watchdog in temples and monasteries, and was considered sacred, for when its master died, his soul was thought to enter the Lhasa Apso's body. Although they were thought to bring good luck to their owners, Lhasa Apsos were virtually impossible to buy. Happily these very precious dogs, and the equally prized Tibetan Terrier, spread to other parts of the world, mainly because the Dalai Lama. Tibet's ruler would present them to visiting foreign diplomats. The breed was first seen in Britain in the 1920's and was introduced to the US in the 1930's.

Temperament

This is a hardy dog with a friendly, assertive, manner. Intelligent and lively, it makes a good pet, but it is naturally suspicious of strangers. Lhasa Apsos are spirited and devoted. These little dogs are affectionate with their masters, but they will not tolerate rough or badly behaved children. Some are willful and some are very obedient to their masters. This breed responds to motivational training. It should have a dominant owner. They are good watchdogs with a loud, persistent bark, which gives the impression to intruders of a much larger dog. The breed can be noisy and may be too nervous around children and strangers. They are inclined to fight if they are not the only dog in the house. They have a fine sense of hearing. These little dogs travel well . Lhasa Apso bitches make good mothers. They dislike being alone and can be snappish if surprised or peeved.

Height

Height: Dogs 10-11 inches (25-28cm.) a little less for Bitches

Weight

Weight: Dogs 13-15 pounds (5.9-6.8kg.)

Known Health Problems

Generally a very healthy dog. Sometimes they have skin problems if the coat is not kept free of parasites. They do have a slight tendency to get hip dysplasia. Also kidney problems, eye problems and bleeding ulcers.

Conditions for Living

These dogs are good for apartment living. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Exercise Requirments

their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs who do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe open area off lead, such as a large fenced in yard.

Life Expectancy

About 15 or more years. This breed is very long-lived. Some dogs live up to 18 or more years.

Grooming

The long coat parts at the spine and falls straight on either side. No trimming or stripping is needed, although when in full coat, they need to be brushed about once a day to keep their coats from matting. Some owners opt to cut the coats short for easier grooming. Dry shampoo as necessary. Check the feet for matting and for foreign matter stuck there. Clean the eyes and ears meticulously, for they tend to tear. Some owners prefer to get their coats clipped to cut down on grooming. This breed is an average shedder.

Group

Herding, AKC Non-Sporting