Breed Description: The Lhasa Apso is a sturdy little dog with a profuse coat of long, floor-length hair, and a prominent beard and mustache. This breed is very friendly and loyal to his owner and other family members. It has an acute sense of hearing and makes and excellent watch dog.
Group: Non-Sporting group.
Purpose of Breed: Companion and Guard in Monasteries
Country of Origin: Tibet
Average Size: Ranges from 10 to 11 inches and 13 to 15 pounds.
Color(s): Typically black, white, brown, gray, cream or parti-colored.
Coat Type: Coats are heavy, straight, dense and long flowing without being woolly or silky. Regular grooming is essential to keep the Lhasa Apso's coat from tangling.
Grooming: The coat of the Lhasa Apso needs brushing and combing daily to keep it tangle-free. This breed requires standard care for the ears, pads and nails. Eyes need frequent cleaning to prevent obstruction of tear ducts.
Exercise Needs: This breed is active indoors and is suitable for apartment living providing it gets a moderate amount of exercise daily.
Temperament: The Lhasa Apso is gentle, friendly and loyal. This intelligent dog has an acute sense of hearing and was bred to be naturally wary of stranger. It makes an excellent watchdog. The Lhasa Apso dislikes being left alone and prefers the security of a routine. This assertive breed considers himself a "big dog" in a little body. They can be a bit stubborn at times, but make a loving and loyal family pet.
Common Ailments: Susceptible to hip dysplasia and skin, kidney and eye problems
Life Expectancy: Averages 12-14 years.
Trivia: In Tibetan monasteries and palaces the Lhasa Apso served as an indoor guard, while a larger dog, like the Mastiff, stood guard outside.
More Information: American Lhasa Apso Club, Inc.
Check out these photos.
Growlithe was 10 years on December 23. He was a Lhasa Apso. I was working at a local pet store and when he arrived, I knew I had to have him. At 8 weeks old, he was so adorable.
Betty is my 1 year old Lhasa Apso. My husband got her for me on our anniversary. She loves chasing balls.
My name is Sophie. I'm a Lhasa Apso. I was born 16 May 2007. When I was adopted I found a very nice paradise. My parents take very good care of me just like a baby.
Josie is a 4 year old Lhasa Apso. I had a yard sale to make enough money to buy her and she was the only Lhasa listed in the paper. Had her named picked out before I got her, couldn't imagine her being named anything else.
Bandit is a 10 yr.old Lhasa Apso that I got on Feb. 14, 1995. He likes to lay on his back and put his feet straight up in the air and scratch and wiggle on the carpet. He is so funny.
EJ is a 4 year old Lhasa Apso. I got him when He was only 8 weeks old. He likes to Play ball and run around a lot. He's the friendliest and very loving dog I have ever seen .
Lacy is our 2 year old Lhasa Apso. We adopted Lacy from a rescue shelter. She has been through so much in her short life.
