Lhasa Apso

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Dog Breed Group

Non Sporting Dogs 

Origin of Breed

Tibet as a guard dog 

Life Expectancy

12 to 18 years. 

Color

Include red, gold, cream, honey, white, gray, brown, and black. 

Coat

Long, straight, and harsh coat. Double coated 

Exercise Needs

Moderate energy level. It does not demand exercise although it loves to scramble about and will be healthier and happier if give 

Temperament

It has a bold temperament. It is wary and aloof of strangers. They tend to be a one person dog and do not change loyalties easil 

Good with Children

Makes an excellent watchdog. 

Grooming Needs

Minimal shedder but has a tendency to mat. It requires professional clipping 4 to 6 times per year. 

Average Size - Male (in)

10 - 11 

Average Size - Female (in)

slightly smaller 

Average Weight - Male (lbs)

13 - 15 

Average Weight - Female (lbs)

13 - 15 

Health Issues

Slow to mature, the Lhasa Apso does not reach its prime age until 3 to 4 years of age. It is relatively free of health problems,v

Living Conditions

Can adjust to both city and country living. Makes an excellent apartment dog. 

Breed Description

The Lhasa Apso is a shaggy breed of nonsporting dog used to guard monasteries, temples, and households and revered as a symbol of Tibetan royalty and as a good-luck talisman. Its name stems from Chinese words meaning "barking sentinel" or "lion". It is also called the Tibetan Apso, a reference to its origins in Tibet in the 8th century BC; legend says that Tibetan priests who failed to reach Nirvana were reincarnated as lhasa apsos. They are easily trainable, responsive and alert nature and very long-lived. The Lhasa Apso is characteristically hardy, intelligent, and watchful. It is longer than it is tall and has a heavily haired tail that curls over its back and a long, profuse coat that covers its eyes. The coat of the Lhasa apso may be of various colours, but golden-brown shades are preferred by most breeders. The hair is so long it is often groomed to fall over the eyes and face so that only the muzzle peeks out from a curtain of hair. Its ears are pendantlike and heavily feathered, and nearly obscured by hair. The tail forms a lush plume over the back and its eyes are medium-sized and dark brown.