Description

The Lhasa Apso has the characteristics of keen watchfulness, and is very hardy. Lhasa Apso are easily trained and responsive to kindness. The beautiful dark eyes of Lhasa Apso are appealing as they wait for some mark of appreciation for his efforts. The Lhasa Apso is happy, usually long lived, adaptable and good in families with children.

Size of Male: Height: 10-11 inches Weight: 13-17 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 10-11 inches Weight: 13-17 pounds

Temperament

Lhasa Apso is a hardy dog with a friendly, assertive, manner. Intelligent and lively, Lhasa Apso makes a good pet, but it is naturally suspicious of strangers. Lhasa Apso are spirited and devoted. These little dogs are affectionate with their masters, but they will not tolerate rough or badly behaved children. Some are willful and some are very obedient to their masters. This breed responds to motivational training. They should have a dominant owner. They are good watchdogs with a loud, persistent bark, which gives the impression to intruders of a much larger dog. The breed can be noisy and may be too nervous around children and strangers. They are inclined to fight if they are not the only dog in the house. They have a fine sense of hearing. These little dogs travel well. Lhasa Apso bitches make good mothers. They dislike being alone and can be snappish if surprised or peeved.

Living Conditions

Lhasa Apso are good for apartment living. Lhasa Apso are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. As with other small dogs, the exercise in the apartment is usually enough when they play some games and run around, however, do ensure they are properly socialized and exercised to keep them healthy

Upkeep

The Lhasa Apso is an active dog, but its relatively small size makes it possible to meet its energy needs either with short walks or vigorous play sessions in the yard, or even home. Lhasa Apso makes a fine apartment dog. Lhasa Apso is not suited for outdoor living. The long coat needs brushing and combing every other day.

Health

Major concerns: none

Minor concerns: patellar luxation, entropion, distichiasis, progressive retinal atrophy, renal cortical hypoplasia

Life expectancy: 12 – 14 years