Lhaso Apsos – More Dog than Meets the Eye
Lhasa Apsos are one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. Originating in Tibet, they have existed since at least 800 B.C. These small dogs stand to about 10- 11 inches at the withers and weigh about 13 – 15 pounds. However, don’t let their small size fool you. These little dogs have big personality and will not be pushed around. They make devoted and loving companions and are a very hearty breed.
The Lhasa Apso is naturally a sociable breed. However, they can be reserved towards strangers if they are not socialized properly with people and fellow canines as a puppy. It is important to deter anti-social behavior from your Lhasa as this can lead to an overly aggressive and paranoid dog.
The Lhasa is an excellent watchdog, and will bark to alert their owners. It is in the Lhasa’s nature to guard their home, as it was once their purpose to guard inside homes and temples in Tibet. That being said, keep in mind that this breed enjoys barking, which can become an irritating habit if not controlled.
Despite how much you socialize a Lhasa Apso with others, understand that they may always be slightly nervous around those who are outside their family pack. What’s more is the Lhasa Apso is not typically fond of children. The Lhasa will not tolerate teasing or abuse, even if it is unintentional from children, and will bite or snap at any child engaging in such behaviors. Plus, Lhasa’s are a small breed, and they can easily become injured by absent minded or careless children. Thus, the Lhasa is not a good dog for really young children (under the age of 8), but does enjoy the company of respectful children.
Additionally, Lhasa Apsos do not tolerate other family pets, particularly their fellow canines. They don’t enjoy sharing their family or master with another, and will provoke a fight with other dogs.
The Lhasa Apso is an exceptionally intelligent breed and is wonderfully obedient when effectively trained. However, the Lhasa does require firm, gentle and consistent training, as he can be stubborn. It’s always a good idea to provide the dog with proper obedience classes taught by a professional.
Like all dogs, Lhasa Apso’s love to play. They have plenty of energy for their small size, and require two daily walks (approximately 15 minute walks), play time, and the opportunity to run free whenever possible. It is important to allow the Lhasa to release their energies daily, as this not only maintains their health, but also their happiness.
The Lhasa Apso is long-lived and generally has a life span of 15 or more years. The Lhasa isn’t plagued by too many health problems. However, common illnesses the breed is prone to include eye and skin problems, kidney problems, bleeding ulcers, and sometimes, hip dysplasia.
The coat of a Lhasa Apso is typically harsh to the touch when un-groomed, and slightly silky when groomed. They have a top coat and under coat, and daily grooming is required in order to prevent mats from forming in the coat. The coat of a Lhasa can be kept clipped short in a puppy style, or it may grow long to the floor. Despite how one may wish to maintain the coat, keep in mind that this breed does shed. That being said, shedding can dramatically be controlled if care is taken to groom the coat daily.
The coat colors of a Lhasa Apso include black, brown, gold, honey, parti-colored, sand, slate, smoke and white.
The Lhasa Apso is an ideal dog for a single person, or for an older family. He is excellent for apartment dwellers and is excellent company. He’ll put a smile on the face of any owner.
