Home Animals A-Z
Animals A-Z >  Lhasapoo
Lhasapoo

The Lhasapoo is a delightful designer crossbreed combining the playful intelligence of the Poodle with the confident, devoted nature of the Lhasa Apso. This hybrid is relatively new, gaining popularity for its adaptable, friendly disposition and often hypoallergenic coat. Lhasapoos make excellent companions for individuals and families alike, thriving in environments where they receive plenty of love and attention.

Toy
Breed group
12 - 15 years
Lifespan
Height: 23–28 - 23–28 cm
Size
Black, White, Cream, Apricot, Brown
Color
Curly
Coat type
United States
Origin
Appearance Overview
Lhasapoos are small, sturdy dogs with a fluffy coat that can range from wavy to curly, depending on which parent breed they take after more.
Size
Small, typically 9-13 inches tall at the shoulder.
Weight
Usually between 10-18 pounds.
Coat
Can be curly like a Poodle or long and straight like a Lhasa Apso; often low-shedding.
Colors
Wide variety of colors, including black, white, brown, cream, and combinations thereof.
Head
Rounded head with a moderate muzzle.
Eyes
Dark, expressive eyes.
Ears
Drooping ears, often covered in fur.
Temperament Overview
Lhasapoos are known for their intelligent, affectionate, and playful nature, making them wonderful companions.
Affectionate
Form strong bonds with their families and enjoy close contact.
Intelligent
Quick learners, which can make training both enjoyable and effective.
Playful
Possess a cheerful and energetic demeanor, enjoying games and activities.
Alert
Naturally watchful and will often bark to alert their owners to anything unusual.
Social
Generally good with people and other animals when properly socialized from a young age.
Loyal
Devoted to their families, sometimes exhibiting protective behaviors.
Lhasapoo suitability overview
Lhasapoos are best suited for individuals or families who can provide them with companionship, consistent training, and moderate exercise.
Pros
Adaptable to various living situations, including apartments.
Affectionate and loving with their families.
Intelligent and relatively easy to train.
Often low-shedding, making them a good choice for people with mild allergies.
Playful and entertaining companions.
Cons
Can be prone to barking, especially if left alone for long periods.
Requires regular grooming to maintain their coat.
May have a stubborn streak, requiring patient training.
Prone to certain health issues, requiring regular veterinary care.
May become overly attached to owners, leading to seperation anxiety.
Suitability conclusion
The ideal Lhasapoo owner is someone who can dedicate time to training, grooming, and providing companionship. They thrive in homes where they are treated as part of the family and receive plenty of love and attention.
Lhasapoo care requirements
Lhasapoo care involves regular grooming, a balanced diet, and a comfortable living environment, ideally indoors with their family.
Grooming
Requires regular brushing (several times a week) to prevent mats and tangles, especially if the coat is longer. Professional grooming may be needed every few months.
Bathing
Bathe only when necessary, using a dog-specific shampoo to avoid skin irritation.
Diet
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their size, age, and activity level.
Dental Care
Brush their teeth regularly to prevent dental disease, which is common in small breeds.
Living Environment
Prefer to live indoors as part of the family. They adapt well to apartment living, provided they get enough exercise.
Nail Trimming
Trim the nails as needed.
Lhasapoo training and exercise
Lhasapoos are relatively easy to train due to their intelligence, though they can have a stubborn streak. They require moderate exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Trainability
Lhasapoos respond well to positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise. Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults. Consistency is key, as their intelligence means they can quickly pick up on inconsistencies in training.
Exercise needs
While not overly demanding, Lhasapoos need daily exercise to burn off energy and maintain their physical and mental health. This can include brisk walks, playtime in a securely fenced yard, or interactive games. Aim for at least 30-60 minutes of activity per day, split into shorter sessions.
Notes and tips
Positive Reinforcement
Use treats, praise, and toys to motivate and reward good behavior.
Early Socialization
Expose your Lhasapoo to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.
Consistency
Maintain a consistent training routine to avoid confusion.
Mental Stimulation
Provide puzzle toys and games to keep their intelligent minds engaged.
Stubbornness
Be patient and persistent, as they can sometimes exhibit a stubborn streak inherited from the Lhasa Apso side.
Lhasapoo health
Lhasapoos are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues.
Patellar Luxation
A condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal location.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
A degenerative eye disorder that eventually leads to blindness.
Hip Dysplasia
A malformation of the hip joint, leading to arthritis and pain.
Allergies
Lhasapoos can be prone to skin allergies, which can cause itching and discomfort.
Lhasapoo history
The Lhasapoo, as a designer hybrid, does not have a long, documented history like purebred dogs. The breed emerged in the late 20th century, likely in the United States, as part of the growing trend to create companion dogs with desirable traits from two different breeds. While the Lhasapoo itself isn't recognized by major kennel clubs like the AKC, both parent breeds have rich histories. The Lhasa Apso originated in Tibet as a sentinel dog in monasteries, and the Poodle, despite its association with France, is believed to have originated in Germany as a water retriever. The goal of breeding Lhasapoos was often to combine the Poodle's low-shedding coat with the Lhasa Apso's sturdy and friendly personality.
Faqs about Lhasapoo
Are Lhasapoos hypoallergenic?
While no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic, Lhasapoos are often considered to be low-shedding, thanks to their Poodle heritage. This can make them a better choice for people with mild allergies, but it's always best to spend time with the dog before committing to see if they trigger any allergic reactions.
How long do Lhasapoos live?
The average lifespan of a Lhasapoo is 12-15 years, with some individuals living even longer with proper care.
Do Lhasapoos get along with children?
Yes, Lhasapoos are generally good with children, especially when raised with them from a young age. However, as with any dog, supervision is always recommended, especially with very young children.
Do Lhasapoos need a lot of exercise?
Lhasapoos have moderate exercise needs. Daily walks and playtime are usually sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.
Are Lhasapoos easy to groom?
Their grooming needs depend on their coat type. Those with curlier, Poodle-like coats will require more frequent brushing to prevent matting. Regular grooming is essential for all Lhasapoos.
How much does a Lhasapoo puppy cost?
The price of a Lhasapoo puppy can vary depending on the breeder, location, and lineage. Expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $2,000 or more.
Where can I adopt a Lhasapoo?
While Lhasapoos are a designer breed and may be harder to find in shelters, you can check with local rescue organizations, breed-specific rescues (for Lhasa Apsos or Poodles), and online adoption platforms.
Are Lhasapoos good with other pets?
With proper socialization, Lhasapoos can get along well with other dogs and cats. Early exposure to other animals is key to ensuring they develop good social skills.
Do Lhasapoos bark a lot?
Lhasapoos can be prone to barking, especially when alerting their owners to something unusual. Training and providing adequate mental stimulation can help manage this.
Is a Lhasapoo a good first dog?
Lhasapoos can be a good choice for first-time dog owners, provided the owners are prepared to commit to training, grooming, and providing companionship. Their intelligence and affectionate nature make them relatively easy to manage, but their potential stubbornness requires patience and consistency.