Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is an alert little dog that make good watchdogs. These little guys have a tenancy to bark, which could well be a problem with some people.

These small dogs have long coats that requires daily grooming. They do need to be socialised from an early age to be tolerant of other dog breeds.

Lhasa Apso Facts

Exercise Requirements:      

Good with Children:             

Easy to Train:                        

Good Watchdog:                    

Low Shedding:                       

Good with Other Pets:         

Vital Statistics

Size: 25-28 cm (10-11 in)

Weight: 6-7 kg (13-15.5 lb)

Coat: Heavy, long and straight topcoat with a moderate undercoat

Colour: Sandy, golden, honey, dark grizzle, slate, smoke, particolour, black, white or brown

Lifespan: 12-14 years

Special Characteristics

If you would ever describe any dog as vocal then this is it. These dogs are alert, active, assertive, steady, confident, stubborn and a little weary of strangers.

Exercise Requirements

These little guys are good with a couple of quick walks each day, but will happily go on long walks if you want them to. They are classed as having medium exercise requirements.

Attitude Towards:

Owners: Are loyal and very affectionate towards their owners.

Children: Usually good around children if raised with them.

Other Pets: Good if raised with them.

Strangers: Are reserved and aloof around strangers. They have a low tolerance for interference.

Other Unfamiliar Dogs: Are known to be problematic around other dogs that they are unfamiliar with.

What to Watch Out For

The Lhasa Apso does bark excessively and is known to be strong willed. These little guys need a strong willed owner to keep them in check.

Their long coat needs daily grooming to avoid mats from forming, their coat will need to be clipped on a regular basis. The hair around their eyes needs to be clipped or trimmed to allow them to see clearly.

Health Risks

Five health risks to take note of with this breed; patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, entropion, bleeding disorders and spinal problems.

Ideal Owner

The perfect owner of the Lhasa Apso should really be an experienced dog handler that is tolerant and patient. You should also have the time to keep up with their daily grooming needs.

These dogs really do need continuous training to keep them from being problematic around other people and unfamiliar dog breeds.

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