The Lhasa Apso originated in Tibet in the Himalayan Mountains hundreds of years ago. It’s named after the sacred city of Lhasa. For years the breed remained solely bred in Tibet by holy men and nobles. It was used as a watchdog in temples and monasteries. The dog was considered sacred. The belief was that when its master died the master’s soul entered the Lhasa Apso’s body. The breed was not easy to come across and was hard to buy. The dogs were considered good luck to their owners. In 1933 the dogs spread to other parts of the world thanks to C. Suydam Cutting, who introduced the first Lhasas to the USA as gifts from the 13th Dalai Lama. Tibet’s ruler would present them to visiting foreign diplomats. The Lhasa Apso first appeared in Britain in the 1920s and in the USA in 1930. It was first recognized by the AKC in 1935.
Description
The Lhasa Apso is longer than it is tall, with a strong loin. Although the breed has never been used for purposes requiring great athleticism, it should nonetheless have a strong loin and well-developed quarters and thighs. The head is well-covered with a good fall over the eyes and good whiskers and beard, imparting a dignified, almost lionlike look. The bite should be either level or slightly undershot. The coat is heavy, straight, long and hard.
Despite its lap-dog appearance, the Lhasa is a tough character. It is independent, stubborn and bold. Although it is eager for a romp or game, it will be happy as long as it is given exercise. It will also happily snooze beside its owner. These characteristics make it an excellent small companion in adventure. It is somewhat reserved with strangers.
Uses/benefits of Lhasa Dog
- It has excellent traits of guard dogs as it is naturally suspicious of strangers.
- It is very serious for its job as a protector.
- This is a lionhearted breed whose devotion is to share his life with his family.
- It is intelligent, independent and mischievous breed.
- Lhasa’s hobby is to do his own things, which basically means that his goal is not to please anyone.
Features of Lhasa Dog
- Highlights
- The Lhasa is highly independent; his aim is to please himself, not you.
- The Lhasa is a leader, and he’ll be your leader if you allow him to.
- The Lhasa is a naturally protective watchdog. There’s no changing this, though you can teach him good canine manners. Early, positive socialization is essential to help him become a friendly, sociable pet.
- The Lhasa matures slowly. Don’t expect too much too soon.
- The beautiful Lhasa coat needs a lot of grooming. Expect to do a lot of work, or to pay a professonial groomer.
- Dental care is essential. Brush the Lhasa’s teeth regularly, and have your veterinarian check his teeth and gums periodically.
- To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill, or pet store. Look for a reputable breeder who tests her breeding dogs to make sure they’re free of genetic diseases that they might pass onto the puppies, and that they have sound temperaments.
Specification of Lhasa Dog
| HEIGHT | 10-11 inches |
| WEIGHT | 12-18 pounds |
| LIFE SPAN | 12-15 years |
| BREED SIZE | small (0-25 lbs.) |
| GOOD WITH | families seniors children |
| TEMPERAMENT | friendly willful aloof |
| INTELLIGENCE | high |
| SHEDDING AMOUNT | occasional |
| EXERCISE NEEDS | medium |
| ENERGY LEVEL | calm |
| BARKING LEVEL | frequent |
| DROOL AMOUNT | low |
| BREED GROUP | non-sporting |
| COAT LENGTH/TEXTURE | long |
| COLORS | brown / chocolate / liverredgold / yellowcreamblackbluegraywhite |
| PATTERNS | sablebrindleblack and tan |
| OTHER TRAITS | requires lots of groomingtolerates being aloneapartment-friendlycold weather tolerantstrong loyalty tendencies |
Prices of Lhasa Dog
$1500 – $3,000