Dog Breeds: Lhasa Apso

Sunday, May 3rd, 2009 at 4:08 am

lhasa-apso The Lhasa Apso was bred in Tibet in monasteries as a temple and palace sentinel. It was named after the Tibetan capital of Lhasa.

The Lhasa Apso was considered to be sacred in ancient times as Tibetans believed that when its master died his soul entered the body of the Lhasa Apso.

The breed was introduced outside Tibet when the Dalai Lama presented it to foreign diplomats as a gift.

Lhasa Apso’s look like a smaller version of the Old English Sheepdog.

FACTS ABOUT THE LHASA APSO

Size	Male: 10-11 in (25-28 cm) Female : 9-10 in (23-25 cm)
Weight	Male: 14-18 lb (6-8 kg) Female: 12-16 lb (5-7 kg)
Temperament	The Lhasa Apso is a friendly, affectionate dog with an assertive manner. An intelligent and loyal dog, the Lhasa Apso loves human companionship, it is however, suspicious of strangers and can be snappy if they are surprised. The Lhasa Apso will be snappy if handled roughly or teased and may be nervous around children or strangers. They have very acute hearing and their loud; persistent bark will alert you to when strangers are approaching. Lhasa Apso’s can be willful and stubborn so they need to know who is in control and therefore require a dominant owner.
Grooming	Lhasa Apso require extensive grooming on a daily basis. If not groomed regularly, the undercoat becomes matted. Some owners prefer to have the dog clipped to make it easier to care for. The feet need regular checking for matting and foreign matter. Lhasa Apso’s are average shedders. Clean any residue of food from the beard when the dog has finished eating.This will help to stop matting and staining.
Exercise	Regular exercise is required. Your Lhasa Apso enjoys going for walks but they love to run free and play.
Living Area	Suited to living in an apartment. Because they are so active inside they do not require a back yard to run in.
Health	The Lhasa Apso is a relatively healthy dog with few health problems. These dogs can suffer from hip dysplasia and kidney problems. If the coat is not groomed regularly and kept parasite free, the Lhasa Apso can suffer from skin problems. The eyes can be subject to tears and the eyes may get infections so pay particular attention to these areas when grooming.
Life Expectancy	Although the average life span is around 15 years they can live up to 18 years or more.