With more than 200 AKC-recognized breeds to choose from, finding a dog that best fits your lifestyle can be a challenge. Considering appearance, personality, and the breed’s original purpose, how do you determine which breed is right for you? If you’re looking for an elegant, independent companion with a rich ancestral history, check out the Lhasa Apso.
The Lhasa Apso’s Temperament
Among the oldest dog breeds, the Lhasa Apso is believed to have originated as early as 800 B.C. in the Himalayas near Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. The Lhasa Apso is called “Apso Seng Kyi” in Tibetan language, which best translates to “Bearded Lion Dog.” Developed as a companion and household sentinel, these little dogs kept watch over the interiors of Tibetan palaces and Buddhist monasteries, while Tibetan Mastiffs guarded outside.
The Lhasa Apso is independent, regal, and intelligent. With the people they love, they’re affectionate, comical, and a bit mischievous. This breed takes its origin as a watchdog seriously. Lhasa Apsos may be suspicious of strangers, and are highly aware of their surroundings.
Physical Traits and Grooming Needs
A member of the Non-Sporting Group, the Lhasa Apso is a small, sturdy breed that stands 10-11 inches tall and weighs 12-18 pounds. The breed’s most distinguishing feature is its long, luxurious coat, which ranges in color from light, creamy blond to black. The Lhasa Apso’s dark brown eyes peer through lush facial furnishings, which can be banded out of their face for cleanliness. The breed’s feathered tail flips over the back and may have a kink. (It’s said that a kinked tail is a sign of good luck.)
The Lhasa Apso is best known for its stunning coat that drapes to the floor, creating a distinctive silhouette. Parted down the middle, the hair is straight, thick, and heavy. Lhasa Apsos don’t shed much, but their coats require extensive maintenance. Daily grooming with a pin brush, wide-toothed comb, and conditioning spray will prevent tangles and mats from forming. Many Lhasa Apso owners opt for a shorter trim for ease and practicality.
How Much Training Do Lhasa Apsos Need?
Lhasa Apsos are highly intelligent problem-solvers with an independent nature. They have excellent reasoning abilities and may try to manipulate their owners into getting what they want. Basic obedience training — following programs such as AKC STAR Puppy, AKC Canine Good Citizen, and AKC Virtual Home Manners — is highly recommended to help your Lhasa Apso understand the expectations and boundaries of your household.
Lhasa Apsos respond best to positive, rewards-based training in short sessions, with plenty of treats and minimal repetitions. Their clever, comical nature requires a trainer with creativity, patience, and a sense of humor.
Are Lhasa Apsos Good for Families?
Lhasa Apsos generally prefer the company of adults, although some may do well in a household with children. A responsible breeder can determine whether an individual puppy is suitable for family life. A puppy with a confident, outgoing temperament will fare better than a shy or “soft” puppy.
Before bringing a Lhasa Apso home, it’s crucial for any children to learn how to respectfully and safely interact with a small breed. When raised in a family at a young age and with proper supervision and monitoring, Lhasa Apsos can be loving companions to family members of all ages.
How Social Are Lhasa Apsos?
Guardians by nature, Lhasa Apsos are suspicious of strangers and will bark at intruders. However, while they’re alert and aware of their environment, Lhasa Apsos don’t bark indiscriminately. As an independent breed, Lhasa Apsos rarely struggle with separation anxiety and are content to stay home while their owners are at work.
Lhasa Apsos don’t require extensive exercise, due to their small size and heritage as an indoor sentry. The breed is adaptable to apartment living, with regular walks for exercise and enrichment.
With its rich heritage, keen intelligence, and head-turning looks, the Lhasa Apso can be an intriguing companion for the right owner. To learn more about the breed, visit the American Lhasa Apso Club.