The Lhasa Apso was a dog breed established approximately around the 7th century AD. They were first discovered in the isolated ranges of the Himalayan Mountains.
Incidentally, during that time, Tibet was going through its conversion to Buddhism. As a result, Lhasa Apsos were extensively trained and were used as temple guards. But perhaps the trait that makes Lhasa Apsos the most interesting among all the other dog breeds is the fact that they were sent to the imperial courts of China as tokens of respect, veneration, and fortuity. As good luck talismans, the best of this breed were even sent to accompany the Dalai Lama.
It was not until the 1930s before Lhasa Apsos made their way to the Western world. Getting these dogs from the East all the way to the West was quite difficult since there was a point in time that exporting this breed was forbidden. Nonetheless, Tibetan dogs made their first appearance in England during the Youngsband expedition. Back then, they were referred to as 揕hasa Terriers.?
Since it was virtually impossible to get more Tibetan dogs for breeding, the English started breeding them with Terriers. Not long after, the Tibetan breed died out. Thankfully, a few Tibetan specimens were eventually brought in. Few people were able to breed Apsos, but they remained among the elite.
Unfortunately, for quite some time the Second World War halted the English breeding of these dogs. However, after the war, a man named Suydam Cutting was privileged enough to receive five dogs from the 13th Dalai Lama. After the 13th Dalai Lama抯 death, the Regent offered them two more dogs, a couple of golden Lhasa-Apsos.
For a time, Lhasa Apsos were even bred with Shih Tzus from China. But as time progressed, a good number of Lhasa Apsos were brought into the West --- just enough to be able to continue the lineage of this wonderful breed.
It is also interesting to know that the way dogs of this breed have been regarded with such importance and attention has ultimately helped them develop such strong personalities. Lhasa Apsos are very alert and intelligent dogs, but they also possess the constant need to be in charge. Dogs of this breed can be quite hardheaded and bossy.
Nonetheless, it is always helpful to take a look back at our loving pet companion抯 history. Not only does it provide us with interesting tidbits of information, most importantly, it helps us understand our furry companions as best as we can.
