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Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is a small, ancient breed from Tibet. They have a heavy coat that requires regular grooming.


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Breed Facts
Active:
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Affectionate:
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Friendly:
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Pet Friendly:
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Protective:
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Physical Characteristics
  • Long, heavy double coat drapes to the ground
  • Comes in all colors
  • Coat: straight, hard and heavy hair
  • Oval, medium-sized eyes
  • Heavy, feathered ears are covered with hair
  • Height: 10-11 inches
  • Weight: 13-15 pounds
  • Average lifespan: 15-18 years, sometimes more
Temperament
  • Smart, bold, spirited, independent, strong, devoted
  • Interaction with people: Can be uneasy around children and strangers
  • Interaction with animals: Needs early socialization 
  • Training: Responds best to incentive training
  • Protection: Excellent watchdog; generates loud, constant barking when strangers are detected
Medical Conditions
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
Grooming
  • Average shedder
  • Needs daily brushing to prevent matting
  • Dry shampoo when needed
  • Check feet regularly for matted hair
  • Clean eyes and ears often to prevent infection and tearing
  • OK to cut coat short
Other Facts
  • The Dalai Lama often presented this breed as a gift to visiting dignitaries; attributing to the Lhasa Apso's presence around the world
  • Known as "abso seng kye" and the "bark lion sentinel dog" in Tibet
  • Powerful instinct for determining friend from foe
  • Slow to mature; reaches fully maturity in third or fourth year
Breed History
  • Native to Himalayan Mountains of Tibet
  • Name is taken from Tibetan city of Lhasa
  • Bred solely by holy men and nobles for 2,000 years
  • Used as watchdogs in sacred temples and monasteries
  • Popular belief held that after death the soul of a Lhasa Apso owner entered the body of the dog
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the American Lhasa Apso Club For breed rescue opportunities, visit ALAC Rescue