Lhasa Apso

Size: Small
Other Names: Lhasa Terrier, Lhasa
Country of Origin: Tibet
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Non-Sporting
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Non-Sporting
United Kennel Club (UKC): Companion Dog
Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC): Non-Sporting
The Kennel Club (KC): Utility
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Utility
National Kennel Club (NKC): Recognized
New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC): Non-Sporting

Height:

Male: about 10 inches; Female: slightly shorter

Weight:

Male: 14-18 pounds; Female: 12-14 pounds

Color(s):

Any

Coat:

Double, heavy, straight, hard, very dense, neither woolly nor silky

Description:

The Lhasa Apso originated in Tibet, and was bred as an interior sentinel in the Buddhist monasteries.  He has incredibly good hearing, and alerted the monks to any intruders who entered.  "Lhasa" is the capital city of Tibet, and "apso" is a word in the Tibetan language meaning "bearded" Lhasas can change color as they get older.  Some start off with a dark brown coat with tan and white splotches, but when their hair is cut or it grows naturally, their color can turn much lighter.

Temperament:

The Lhasa Apso is valued as a companion and watchdog.  He is gay and assertive, and loyal to his family.  He is wary of strangers, and, if he deems a visitor untrustworthy, he may be quite assertive about not allowing the visitor to enter the home.  Lhasa Apsos are alert and have a keen sense of hearing, with a rich, sonorous bark that belies their size.  Lhasas are not recommended for children under the age of 12.  The Lhasa does not tolerate rough play, and are not averse to issuing a "correction" for behavior they deem inappropriate.  Many Lhasas are highly tolerant of solitude, and do not long for the companionship of other dogs.  The Lhasa Apso can exhibit brief periods of explosive energy, but in general he is not very active.  He will often sit for hours on a bed or sofa, listening for intruders.  He is quite comfortable in the snow, is surprisingly sure-footed, and may become more playful than in warmer weather.

Training:

Lhasa Apsos can be headstrong and difficult to train.  The Apso must be trained to appreciate bathing, hair combing, and clipping.  While an Apso can be integrated into a family with small children, it requires a great deal of time, effort, training, and supervision of dog and children, which is something many families cannot or will not provide.

Care & Grooming:

Most Apsos are not fond of long walks, however, like all dogs, daily exercise is required.  Regular hair combing, clipping, and bathing are recommended.  When there are other male dogs in his territory, the Lhasa may be obstinate about marking territory with urine, so neutering at an early age is strongly recommended.

Shedding:

Low if the long coat is kept brushed; loose hair is trapped in the coat.

Health:

Lhasa Apsos may develop dry eye, progressive retinal atrophy, kidney disease, and patellar luxation.  Regular eye care and dental cleaning help this small companion.

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Litter Size:

4–6 puppies