The Kyi-Leo is a small, sturdy dog with a long, flowing coat that often reaches the floor.

Small, typically 8-12 inches tall at the shoulder.

Usually between 6-14 pounds.

Long, dense, and straight, with a silky texture.

Most commonly black and white or gold and white, but can also be solid black, white, or shades of gold.

Rounded skull with a distinct stop (the indentation between the eyes).

Dark, round, and expressive.

Drop ears, heavily feathered.

Carried over the back, heavily plumed.

Kyi-Leos are known for their affectionate, playful, and sometimes stubborn personalities.

They form strong bonds with their families and love to cuddle.

They enjoy games and interactive toys, maintaining a puppy-like energy throughout their lives.

They possess a self-assured demeanor, inherited from the Lhasa Apso.

They are watchful and make good watchdogs, though not aggressive.

They can be somewhat stubborn and require patient, consistent training.

Generally good with other dogs and children, especially when socialized early.

Kyi-Leos are best suited for individuals or families who can provide them with plenty of attention, affection, and consistent grooming.

Alert and make good watchdogs.

Prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.

The ideal owner for a Kyi-Leo is someone who is home often and can dedicate time to grooming, training, and providing companionship. They thrive in environments where they are a cherished member of the family.

Kyi-Leos require regular grooming due to their long coat, a balanced diet, and a comfortable living environment.

Daily brushing is essential to prevent mats and tangles. Professional grooming may be needed every few months.

Bathe only when necessary, usually every 2-3 months, to avoid drying out their skin.

Trim nails regularly, usually every 2-3 weeks, to prevent overgrowth.

Check and clean ears weekly to prevent infections.

Brush their teeth regularly, ideally daily, to maintain dental health.

Feed them a high-quality, small-breed dog food appropriate for their age and activity level.

They adapt well to apartment living but appreciate having a comfortable, safe space to call their own.

Kyi-Leos are moderately easy to train, responding best to positive reinforcement, though their independent streak can require patience. They have moderate exercise needs.

Kyi-Leos are intelligent dogs but can be independent thinkers. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work best. Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults. Consistency and patience are key, as their Lhasa Apso heritage can make them somewhat stubborn.

Despite their small size, Kyi-Leos need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. Short walks, play sessions in a securely fenced yard, and interactive games indoors are usually sufficient. Aim for about 30 minutes of exercise per day. Mental stimulation is equally important; puzzle toys and training sessions can help keep their minds engaged.

Establish clear rules and stick to them from the beginning.

Use treats, praise, and toys to motivate them.

Expose them to various people, dogs, and environments early in life.

Keep training sessions short and engaging to prevent boredom.

Be prepared for occasional stubbornness and don't get discouraged.

Kyi-Leos are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions.

A condition where the kneecap dislocates, causing pain and lameness.

A degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness.

A spinal condition that can cause pain and paralysis.

Kyi-Leos can be prone to skin allergies, which can cause itching and discomfort.

The Kyi-Leo's story began in the 1950s in the San Francisco Bay Area, California, with an accidental breeding between a Maltese and a Lhasa Apso. The resulting puppies charmed their owners, who, recognizing the unique blend of traits, decided to continue the line. The breed's development was further refined in the 1970s by Harriet Linn, who established a consistent breeding program. The name 'Kyi-Leo' was chosen, combining 'Kyi' (Tibetan for 'dog') and 'Leo' (Latin for 'lion'), reflecting the Lhasa Apso's heritage and the breed's lion-like mane. While not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Kyi-Leo is recognized by several other registries, including the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) and the Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA).

While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, Kyi-Leos are considered to be low-shedding and may be a better choice for people with mild allergies. However, it's always best to spend time with the breed before committing to ensure there's no allergic reaction.

The average lifespan of a Kyi-Leo is 12-15 years.

Kyi-Leos can be vocal, especially if they are not properly trained or socialized. They are alert and will bark to alert their owners to anything unusual.

Yes, Kyi-Leos are generally good with children, especially when raised with them. They are playful and affectionate, but supervision is always recommended with any dog and young children.

The price of a Kyi-Leo puppy can vary depending on the breeder, location, and lineage. Expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $2,000 or more.

Kyi-Leos are prone to separation anxiety and do not do well when left alone for extended periods. They thrive on companionship and can become destructive or anxious if left alone for too long.

Yes, their long coat requires commitment to grooming. Daily brushing is a must to avoid matting and tangles. Many owners also opt for professional grooming every few months.

No, they have moderate exercise needs. Short daily walks and play sessions are usually sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.

No, the Kyi-Leo is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) because it's a hybrid dog breed. However, they are recognized by other registries, such as the ACHC and DRA.

While less common than some breeds, you might find Kyi-Leos through breed-specific rescues or shelters specializing in small dogs. Online adoption platforms can also be a resource.