Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is an elegant yet sassy member of the Non-Sporting Group. The appearance of this dog cannot be mistaken. With its long flowing coat and small stature, the Lhasa Apso makes the perfect companion for individuals that enjoy a small house pet, yet one with the personality and boldness of a guard dog. They weigh from 13 to 15 pounds and stand from 10 to 11 inches.
The temperament of the breed is that of a bold, independent watchdog. Like many smaller types, the Lhasa Apso is as stubborn as it is affectionate, which makes it an excellent watchdog. They enjoy the company of the rest of the family – perfect for indoor living. The Apso is moderately friendly towards other pets, less so with other dogs, and absolutely weary of strange people.
A Brief History Of The Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is an ancient breed with its roots from Tibet. It's history is mixed in with the Buddhist beliefs that the souls of the Lamas would enter the bodies of these dogs immediately after death, thus creating high respect and reverence for the little canines.
These dogs were also used as dependable watchdogs in the monasteries. They would sound off the alert through barking when visitors approached. This service gave rise to the nickname “Abso Seng Key”, which means the Bark Lion Sentinel Dog.
When the breed made its way to England they were known as the Lhassa Terrier, even though it was not a terrier in any way, shape or form. The name Lhasa Apso is the breed's western name, said to have been derived from its native name.
The first Lhasa Apso dogs made their way to the United States sometime during the early 1930s. In 1935, the breed became recognized by the AKC as a member of the Terrier Group, then changed officially to the Non-Sporting Group in 1959.
Upkeep Requirements For The Lhasa Apso
Despite the small size of the Lhasa Apso, this dog needs a moderate amount of daily exercise to keep it happy. These exercise requirements can be met with several brisk walks on the leash or simply running around the living room. Play sessions outdoors are also acceptable so long as the area is safe.
This breed is not meant to live outside. They were originally bred for companionship and should stay that way. Apartment living is best suited for the Lhasa Apso. Grooming requirements consists of a thorough brushing every other day to keep its long coat neat and clean.
Health Concerns
The average lifespan of the Lhasa Apso is between twelve and fourteen years. The only major health concern in the breed is patellar luxation. Minor health issues include distichiasis, entropion, renal cortical hypoplasia, and PRA. Rarely seen is vWD, CHD, sebaceous adenitis, and urinary stones. Veterinarians suggest that the Lhasa Apso dogs get specifically tested for knee and eye problems.
History
This breed comes from Tibet. The Buddhist monks bred these dogs for an inside watch dog and friend. It let them know when someone unexpected came in with its rich bark. It was developed to handle temperature extremes from 100 degrees Farenheit during hot months to below zero during the winter.
In 1901 the Lhasa Apsos traveled to England with Mrs. A. McLaren Morrison. In 1902 the Kennel Club of England accepted this breed. The Lhasa Apsos came to the U.S. in the 1930's with Mr. Cutting as a present from the 13th Dalai Lama. The AKC accepted this breed in 1935.
General Looks
The body is small, strong, and compact. The outer fur is long. The eyes are dark and small. The fur feathers the tail and ears. The fur on the head appears bushy.
Is This Your Breed?
It is very important to socialize this breed at a young age. They are naturally leery of strangers. They do best with grownups and older kids. They like walking regularly. The long fur needs daily brushing. Some people maintain a puppy style cut, which is shorter.
Coat
The coat is not soft, but hard. It is weather resistant and the fur keeps the sun and wind out of the dog's eyes. It has a double coat. The outer one is long and the under coat thick.
Color
The colors are gold, gray, white, cream, brown, black, and honey.
Locomotion
The short legs were bred for agility and moving through rocky areas with ease.
Personality
The Lhasa Apsos is assertive and happy. It is faithful to its owner. It is independent, though it likes its owners company and likes to make its people happy. This dog likes to see all that is happening in the house. It will be affectionate by laying down on its owner's feet or rubbing its head upon him.
Lhasa Apso video:
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdgdjNAh0zc
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