LHASA APSO
APPEARANCE
The Lhasa Apso is a small, long haired dog. It has a narrow, apple-shaped skull that drops off markedly behind the eyes, a straight foreface and heavily feathered pendant ears. Texture of the coat is heavy, straight, hard, neither woolly nor silky, and very dense. Interestingly, this coat changes color as it ages. The colors range from gold, cream, and honey to smoke, dark grizzle, slate, and a combination of brown, white and black. The weight of the Lhasa Apso is around 11-18 pounds, and the height is around 10-11 inches.
PERSONALITY
The Lhasa Apso is a happy, gentle, and loyal breed, and is a small dog with plenty of character and spirit. A dignified and watchful dog, the Lhasa Apso will bark to raise an alarm and therefore makes an effective watchdog.They can be a stubborn breed but with the correct master, will make a great pet and fine companion. Although they are known to be independent at times, the Lhasa Apso is not a breed that can be left at home too often because they will become lonely and depressed.
TRAINING
These dogs can be extremely strong willed and stubborn, may be bossy and dominant, and can be manipulative and jealous. He can also be very difficult to train and housebreak. Training sessions should be kept short and be made enjoyable to the dog so that its not considered a chore to practice basic obedience.
EXERCISE
Lhasas in general are not one of the more active dog breeds and will often sit for hours on a bed or sofa just listening for intruders. Most Lhasa Apsos are not fond of long walks and they typically regard a yard as a perimeter to be patrolled at infrequent intervals, rather than a playground. However, in snowy weather their Tibetan heritage may surface. With heavy hair protecting their toes, they are quite comfortable in the snow and may become more playful than they are in warmer weather.
SOCIALIZATION
Lhasa Apsos generally are not very good with small children because they don’t tolerate rough play. When it comes to strangers the Lhasa Apso tends ot be very stand offish and wary. However, once he has become acquainted will usually become friendly and welcoming. Good socializing and training of this breed while it is young is important to create a well-adjusted pet.
LIVING CONDITIONS
The Lhasa is an excellent apartment and condominium dweller. It is active and playful indoors and therefore does not require a yard.
GROOMING
The Lhasa Apso will need to be brushed 4-5 times per week. They have a long, thick coat that needs regular grooming in order to keep it tangle free. Bathing should be done every 2-3 months and special attention should be brought to their ears and paws as the fur here might become matted. Eyes and ears should be kept meticulously clean as they are prone to tearing.
HEALTH ISSUES
The Lhasa Apso is a long-lived breed, with some living in good health into their early 20s. There are few health problems specific to the breed. Their vision may deteriorate with age but they are not sight-oriented dogs and they endure blindness with few noticeable changes in behavior. Other minor health concerns include slight tendency to get hip dysplasia, kidney problems, as well as bleeding ulcers.
HISTORY
The Lhasa Apso originated in Tibet and was bred to protect the churches or religious community their owners would reside in. The breed was introduced to both Britain and America in the 1930s, and was registered with the AKC in 1935.
