The Lhasa Apso is a small, sturdy dog covered in a long, dense, and flowing coat that parts down the back.

Small, typically 10-11 inches tall at the shoulder.

12-18 pounds.

Long, straight, and hard outer coat with a moderate undercoat.

All colors are acceptable, including golden, sandy, honey, dark grizzle, slate, smoke, black, white, and brown.

Heavily furnished with hair, with a characteristic "chrysanthemum-like" face.

Carried over the back in a screw or curled fashion, well-feathered.

Dark, oval-shaped, and not overly large.

Lhasa Apsos are known for their confident, independent, and somewhat aloof nature, often displaying a cautious demeanor around strangers.

Possess a strong sense of self and can be stubborn at times.

Deeply devoted to their families, forming strong bonds.

Naturally watchful and make excellent watchdogs.

Enjoy playtime and interaction with their loved ones, but not overly demanding.

Tend to be wary of strangers, requiring proper socialization.

Smart dogs, but their independent nature can make training a challenge.

Lhasa Apsos are best suited for experienced dog owners who appreciate their independent nature and are committed to consistent training and grooming.

Long lifespan.

Independent nature may not suit first-time dog owners.

The ideal owner for a Lhasa Apso is someone patient, consistent, and experienced with dogs, who appreciates their unique personality and is dedicated to providing the necessary grooming and socialization. They thrive in a calm and stable environment with owners who understand their independent nature.

Lhasa Apsos require significant 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 as needed, typically every few weeks or when they get dirty.

High-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level.

Adaptable to various living situations, including apartments, as long as their exercise needs are met.

Regular teeth brushing is important to prevent dental disease.

Trim nails regularly, usually every few weeks.

Training a Lhasa Apso requires patience and consistency due to their independent nature. Moderate exercise is sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.

Lhasa Apsos are intelligent but possess an independent streak that can make training challenging. Early socialization and positive reinforcement methods are crucial. Consistency and patience are key, as they can be stubborn. Short, engaging training sessions work best. Avoid harsh training methods, as they can be counterproductive.

Lhasa Apsos have moderate exercise needs. Daily walks and playtime are sufficient to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They are not high-energy dogs but enjoy exploring and engaging in activities with their families. Indoor games and puzzle toys can also help keep them entertained.

Use treats, praise, and toys to motivate them.

Expose them to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Establish clear rules and boundaries and stick to them.

Be prepared for a slower learning curve compared to some other breeds.

Keep training sessions brief and engaging to maintain their interest.

Lhasa Apsos are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions.

A degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness.

A condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal position.

A prolapse of the third eyelid gland, appearing as a red mass in the corner of the eye.

Lhasa Apso can be prone to kidney issues, some of which can be hereditary.

The Lhasa Apso's history stretches back thousands of years, originating in the harsh, mountainous region of Tibet. They were primarily kept by monks and nobility within monasteries and palaces, serving as vigilant watchdogs. Their keen hearing and alert nature made them excellent sentinels, alerting residents to any approaching strangers. The breed's name comes from the Tibetan capital, Lhasa, and "Apso," which translates roughly to "bearded dog." They were considered sacred and were rarely, if ever, sold; instead, they were given as gifts, often signifying great respect. The Dalai Lamas historically gifted Lhasa Apsos to visiting dignitaries. The breed was first recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1935.

Lhasa Apsos can be good with older, respectful children who understand how to interact with a small dog. Early socialization is crucial, and supervision is always recommended.

They are known to be alert watchdogs and will bark to alert their owners to anything unusual. However, excessive barking can be managed with proper training.

Lhasa Apsos have a relatively long lifespan, typically 12-15 years, and some can live even longer with proper care.

While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, Lhasa Apsos are considered to be a better choice for people with allergies because they shed less than some other breeds. However, their long coat still requires regular grooming.

While they are relatively independent, Lhasa Apsos are still social animals and should not be left alone for excessively long periods. They can develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long.

Housebreaking can take some time and patience, like with any dog. Consistency is key, and crate training can be helpful.

With proper socialization from a young age, Lhasa Apsos can get along with other dogs. However, they can be assertive, so introductions should be done carefully.

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

A high-quality dog food formulated for small breeds is recommended. The specific type and amount will depend on their age, activity level, and individual needs.

Lhasa Apsos can be challenging for first-time owners due to their independent nature and grooming needs. Experience with dogs is generally recommended.