Lhasa Apso Alternate Names
Apso Seng Kyi (bearded lion dog)
Bark Lion Sentinel Dog
Lhassa
Lhassa Terrier
Apso means “longhaired dog”
Lhasa Apso Appearance
Body: Longer than it is tall, well-balanced, compact, well-sprung ribs, powerful loins, level back.
Coat: Straight, hard, and dense with a soft undercoat.
Color: All variations of colors.
Ears: Well-feathered, often with dark tips, and hang down along the cheeks.
Eyes: Medium size, oval-shaped, and dark brown; not bulging or sunken.
Feet: Round and cat-like, thick, firm pads, well-feathered.
Head: Moderately narrow skull, medium stop, straight muzzle, prominent, black nose, and abundant coverage of hair falling forward over the eyes.
Legs: Forelegs are straight and hairy. Hindquarters are strong with well-developed thighs.
Neck: Strong and well-arched.
Size:
Weight: 13 – 15 pounds
Height: 9 – 11 inches
Tail: Carried upward over the back, usually kinked and well-feathered.
Lhasa Apso Behavior
Recommended for experienced dog handlers
Can be difficult to housetrain
Not good with other animals
The Lhasa Apso is alert, highly intelligent, comical, and outgoing. He is a lot of dog in a small body and is one of the most independently-minded of all small dog breeds. He has a tendency to ignore obedience when it inconveniences him, and he will give careful thought to whatever you ask him to do.
AKC Standards say, “Not a breed given to being yappy or nervous, the Lhasa Apso is extremely intelligent, often exhibiting a regal attitude, which can be quickly dispelled by a clownish sense of humor and a joy of life. An independent nature ensures that Lhasas seldom need to be entertained.”
Because of his stubborn, strong-willed temperament, early training and continued socialization are a must. He is best suited for an experienced dog handler who is patient, capable of allowing him his independence, and leading him with a firm hand, while gaining his respect. He won’t appreciate or respond to harsh-like methods of training. Use a positive approach with lots of praise and rewarding treats.
Lhasa Apso Breed Type
AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group
Used by royalty as sentinels.
Lhasa Apso Care and Grooming
Exercise: Moderate daily exercise.
Grooming: Brush three to four times weekly. Keep his ear canals clean and dry. Keep his eyes clean by wiping them with a warm damp cloth or cotton swab. Limit bathing to three to four times yearly.
Lhasa Apso Health
Life Expectancy: 12 – 14 Years
Possible Problems:
LAllergies
Bladder stones
Diabetes
Heart murmurs
Hip Dysplasia
Kidney disease
Seizures
Lhasa Apso Country of Origin
Tibet