Lhasa apso with a show coat.Photo: Pet Profiles-Isabelle Francais
Height: 10-11 inches.
Weight: 14-15 lbs.
Life Span: 12-14 yrs.
Breed Group:
Companion DogsOverviewMost Lhasa apsos are even-tempered and friendly but not demonstrative. They are wary of strangers at first meeting but usually warm up before too long. Some Lhasas can be nippy with children. Early obedience training and socialization with children, adults, and other animals are important.When praised and treated gently, they do very well in obedience training.
AppearanceThe coat is long, heavy, straight, hard, and dense (not woolly or silky). Coat color is sandy, honey, slate, smoke, dark grizzle, black, white, brown, or particolor.
Grooming & Exercise NeedsLhasas need to be brushed and combed daily to avoid matting. The coat can also be clipped shorter for easier grooming. They need two to three short walks daily.
OriginsSmall, shaggy dogs were known in Tibet as early as 800 B.C., and the dog we recognize today as the Lhasa apso has been known there since the 7th century A.D. The little "lion dogs" that barked at intruders became important watchdogs in Buddhist temples and monasteries.
Special AlertsThe Lhasa apso is unsuitable for inexperienced dog owners. Breed-related health concerns: entropion, progressive retinal atrophy, congenital kidney problems, atopy, intervertebral disc protrusion, patellar luxation.