Lhasa Apso - Independent, Stubborn, Bold and Intelligent

For people who desire to own a dog but do not want or cannot have a large dog due to their living quarters, they should consider the Lhasa Apso dog breed. The Lhasa Apso is a wonderful little dog that does not have many of the other small dog breed characteristics such as excessive barking.

History-

The Lhasa Apso comes from Tibet. They were originally used as personal guard dogs to the holy men in the temples, as well as to the noblemen, because of their very keen hearing.

The Lhasa Apso is highly intelligent and could often tell whether friend or foe was approaching and alert their master accordingly. In the early days, one could not purchase the Lhasa Apso, it had to be given as a gift by the Tibetan ruler.

Physical Characteristics-

The Lhasa Apso has long, straight fur that cascades to the floor. Their facial fur gives off an appearance of having a mustache and beard and should be darker in color. The color of their fur often changes from puppyhood to adulthood, ranging from gold, cream, honey, smoke, dark-grizzle, slate, and multicolor which includes white, brown and black.

The muzzle of the Lhasa Apso is of medium length, however not squared. Their eyes are deep set and the fur from their head falls over them. Their tail is plumed and curls to fall over their back.

A Lhasa Apso male grows to a height of approximately ten to eleven inches, and they weigh around thirteen to fifteen pounds. The female Lhasa Apso is usually slightly smaller in size.

Temperament-

The Lhasa Apso is very intelligent, active, affectionate, devoted and assertive. They are leery of people that they are not familiar with, but to their family, they are very loyal. A family with children should think carefully about getting a Lhasa Apso because this particular breed does not like to be mishandled, but this can be handled by teaching children to love and respect the Lhasa Apso.

Lhasa Apsos need to be socialized very early so that they will adapt well to children and other pets.

The Lhasa Apso can be stubborn when it comes to training, however they do love treats, so motivational training works best. Do not give up on training your Lhasa Apso, you do not want them to control your household.

Health-

The Lhasa Apso is fairly free of most ailments and genetic defects that plague many dog breeds. Skin conditions can develop if their coat is not brushed regularly to avoid parasite infestations. Other maladies that may affect Lhasa Apsos include hip dysplasia, kidney trouble, problems with eyesight, and very rarely, bleeding ulcers. This breed tends to live a long life, anywhere from twelve to eighteen years of age.

Grooming-

As mentioned above, their long coats need to be brushed regularly to avoid parasites, but also so that their fur does not mat up, or collect debris that can end up causing them pain. Some owners prefer to have their Lhasa Apsos trimmed, keeping the fur short and easier to manage. Particular care should be given around the eyes as they leak tears. You can dry shampoo your Lhasa Apso as needed.

All in all, if you want a loving and loyal furry companion to warm your heart and your lap, you cannot go wrong with bringing a Lhasa Apso into your home. This furry little mop will entertain you and love you for many, many years.

More facts (5 is high)

Energy level - 3

Playfulness - 3

Ease of training - 1

Heat tolerance - 2 (can't handle hot weather)

Affection level - 3

Watchdog ability - 5