Lhasa
Apso
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 Description:
The Lhasa Apso originates from Tibet where
it has been bred since 800 BC as an indoor
guard dog. It was also used as a sentinel
in the temples and monasteries, announcing
strangers or intruders with a keen bark.
Lhasa was the capital of Tibet, and "apso"
is thought to come from a term originally
meaning "barking-lion sentinel dog".
These dogs, considered to be vessels of
good luck, were never bought and sold but
were given freely as gifts or tokens of
appreciation. It is in this manner that
the Lhasa Apso slowly found its way around
the world; in fact the first of this breed
to appear in the States were gifts presented
by the Dalai Lama to American friends. The
Lhasa Apso adapts well to small living quarters
provided he can take a short, daily walk.
Height:
The height of a Lhasa Apso is 10
- 11" (25.4 - 25.4cm) for dogs, 9.5
- 10.5" (24.1 - 24.1cm) for bitches.
Weight:
The Lhasa Apso weighs 13 - 15 lbs (5.8 -
6.7 kg).
Coat
Type: The long, flowing
coat of the Lhasa Apso is straight, heavy
and dense. Plenty of grooming is required
to keep the coat from tangling.
Color: All
colors are acceptable for the Lhasa Apso
breed.
Temperament:
Bred as a indoor watchdog for over 2000
years, the Lhasa Apso by nature is wary
of strangers but is friendly and open with
those he knows and loves. He is keen, alert,
and loyal.
Health Problems:
The Lhasa Apso is generally a healthy
breed that can live into its early 20s!
They may be affected by some health issues
that include with hip dysplasia, eye and
digestive problems.
Special Interest:
The Lhasa Apso was a sacred and revered
dog long ago in Tibet. Not only were they
thought capable of warding off evil forces,
but many also believed the soul of the dog's
owner entered into the pet upon dying.
Classifications:
AKC: Group 6 - Non-Sporting Dogs
ANKC: Group 7 - Non Sporting
FCI: Group 9 Section 5 Tibetan breeds
CKC: Group 6 - Non-Sporting Dogs
KC: Non-Sporting - Utility Group
NZKC: Non-Sporting
UKC: Companion Breeds
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