Dog Breeds > Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso was considered good luck in its native country Tibet. This jolly and affectionate little pet and companion would truly bring good luck and joy to any dog lover or breeder’s family.
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Fascinating Facts
The Lhasa Apso was considered sacred and holy by noble families and monks in Tibet where it was originally developed. This breed was named after the Tibetan city called Lhasa. This small dog was used as guardians or watchdogs in temples and monasteries. In Tibet, it is believed that once the Lhasa Apso’s master died, their souls would enter the dog’s body.
Physical Appearance
The Lhasa Apso’s fully-grown size and weight is about 10 – 11 inches and 13 – 15 pounds. This dog looks apparently longer than it is tall. The eyes are dark brown in color and its hairy ears are hanging loosely on either side of its head.
The legs of the Lhasa Apso are straight especially the front ones. The hind legs are heavily covered with hair. The pads are also covered with hair. Its tail is standing high and also covered with thick hair. The coat of the Lhasa Apso is thick and covers the entire body. The common coat colors of the Lhasa Apso are honey, cream and gold, slate, smoke-color and dark-grizzle.
Grooming
The Lhasa Apso’s long coat needs to be brushed or combed on a regular basis. There is no need to trim or strip this furry dog to keep on top condition. However, there are few owners/trainers/handlers that choose to cut the Lhasa Apso’s coat short in order to manage it easily. Bathe only if necessary.
Mood
The Lhasa Apso is active, friendly and affectionate little dogs. This dog is very loyal to its master. With proper training, this breed can live peacefully with other household pets. This dog is also intelligent and obedient.
Just like every toy breed, the Lhasa Apso is very susceptible to human-induced behavior problem such as Small Dog Syndrome. Due to over pampering, this dog might think that it is the pack leader. It would display destructive behaviors such as biting furniture, chasing and fighting other pets and even barking excessively. Make sure that owners/trainers/handlers do not spoil this dog to prevent it from developing such bad attitudes.
With Children
The Lhasa Apso is a natural kid-magnet because of its cute appearance. This breed is very friendly and affectionate to children. It can play for long hours without showing signs of getting tired.
Training & Exercise
The Lhasa Apso needs daily walk in order to fulfill its instinct to walk. This also promotes healthy living condition for the dog. This dog would do well in an apartment but it would also explore well in a fenced yard.
When it comes to training, you can expect many things on the Lhasa Apso. This dog is very obedient and performs well if you use calm and gentle words. It also responds well on food reward training and challenges.
Health & Life Expectancy
The Lhasa Apso normally lives a lifespan of 15 years. This dog can live generally healthy for the rest of its life however, in some instances bleeding ulcers and eye problems are observed. You should also watch out for skin-related problems on this breed.
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