Breed Name - Lhasa Apso.
Aliases - Apso Seng Kyi.
Pronunciation - LAH-sa AHP-so.
Description - The Lhasa apso is an ancient, small breed which has beautiful dark eyes that are
mysteriously appealing. Their long bodies sit atop short legs that make for a very hardy little dog.
Lhasa Apso's have a natural under bite that almost looks as if they are smiling. They have long,
coarse coats that come in many colors and patterns that is neither silk nor wooly.
The Lhasa Apso
has characteristics of serious watchfulness, acute senses and is very intelligent. Its keen eye,
quick hearing, and fine instinct for recognizing the difference between friend and foe make it an
ideal watch dog. They are easily trained with loving but firm commands as they are very
responsive to kindness and positive reinforcement using rewards. Lhasa Apso's are happy and
long lived, adaptable and good with families including children when raised around them. It is
one of the strongest minded of all small breeds but equally lives to please its owner. It is playful
and curious yet remains calm and subdued in nature. It makes a wonderful house dog that does
not need a lot of exercise.
The Lhasa Apso likes heights and are excellent climbers. Owners
should not be surprised if they find their Lhasa perched on top of tall furniture or on the
dashboard of their vehicle. Lhasa's are also fond of caves and will create their own under a table,
chair or desk. They are very sturdy, resilient and despite their often fragile appearances, are of
tough character and very independent. The Lhasa Apso is totally devoted to their owners and
families and cheerfully provides unconditional love and incomparable affection for many years.
Temperament - The Lhasa Apso is gentle, happy, outgoing and devoted little dog. It has a bold
temperament and is playful and affectionate which makes for a lively and friendly companion for
other pets, children or elderly folk. Lhasa's are very people oriented and does not like to be left
alone for long periods of time. A favorite pastime of the Lhasa Apso would be quietly napping
next to its owner.
Though it is a very regal looking species, its character is tough and ever so
hardy. Although the Lhasa Apso is courageous and adaptable, it does not like rough handling or
loud harsh words. Lhasa Apso's are timid yet can be assertive and strong willed with minds of
their own. They are very intelligent, quite sensitive and do not respond well to raised voices
which can cause them to be depressed. Their intelligence scores them many points during
training as they seem to live to please their owners.
Having been bred to be watch dogs, Lhasa
Apso's tend to be alert and have a keen sense of hearing with a rich, sonorous bark that is
deceptive of their size. They must not be overly spoiled as they may develop behavioral
problems. The Lhasa is in a class of it's own when it comes to showing devotion towards a
loving, gentle and firm but kind owner. Although they can be obstinate, they are forever loyal.
The Lhasa Apso is calm in nature and makes a wonderful lap dog for all ages and allows it ample
enjoyment during traveling. In its moods of playfulness, they can be quite entertaining and very
enjoyable.
Height, weight (min-max) - Males range from 10 to 11 inches at the shoulders and weigh
between 14 and 16 pounds. Females range from 9 to 10 inches at the shoulders and weigh
between 12 and 14 pounds. Lhasa Apsos are slow to mature and do not reach their prime age
until 3 to 4 years old.
Health Problems - The Lhasa Apso is relatively free of health problems with the few
exceptions. Ear infections can occur if the ears are not dried properly after bathing, or kept free of
unnecessary hair in the ear itself. Their eyes may tear if the hair is not kept out of their faces.
A
skin condition known as Sebaceous Adenitis causes irritations of the skin resulting in hot spots
(localized skin infections), hair loss, flaking of the skin and itching. The Lhasa Apso can suffer
from genetic kidney problems These problems seem to be in certain breed lines rather than the
whole breed.
Living Conditions - Lhasa Apso's can live in houses or apartments in the country or city. They
predominantly live indoors but will adapt to their environment. They are a sentinel breed always
ready to alert their owners when someone or something approaches.
The Lhasa Apso can play indoors
thus meeting its exercise needs while having fun. However, they do benefit from outdoor
adventures such as a daily walk. Large yards are not necessary as the Lhasa apso tends to occupy
small spaces at any given time and can do so while being very content.
