HISTORY

ORIGIN TIBET

GROUP NON SPORTING GROUP


The Lhasa Apso is thought to have existed since the 7th century in Tibet. This breed was known as the “little lion dogs” by the Tibetan Buddhists. They were used as watchdogs at Buddhist temples and monasteries because they would bark at the intruders. This breed has become a very popular companion in modern times.

APPEARANCE(S)

The Lhasa Apso is has a small sturdy body type. They have round black eyes and small drop ears, the tails curl over the back.

COLOR(S)


This breed is most commonly seen in sandy blond, brown and white, smoke, honey, white, black, or a combination of these.

COAT


The coat is long, straight, and dense. The coat is normally kept very long and has a part down the middle from the head to the tail. Often the hair on the face is long covering the eyes and needs to be tied up in a ponytail.

PERSONALITY

ACTIVITY LEVEL

Low

POSITIVES


This breed is loving and loyal to their owners. They make good lap dogs for adults and older owners. They are not always good with children and they are wary of strangers.

THINGS TO CONSIDER


The Lhasa Apso needs a lot of grooming, and don’t generally make good dogs for children.

IDEAL LIVING SITUATION

This breed would do well in country or city.

HELPFUL INFORMATION/SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

This breed requires extensive grooming.

BREED RELATED HEALTH CONCERNS

The following conditions are known to be seen in this breed, please look at our A to Z listing to find out detailed information.

  • Entropion
  • Atopy
  • Kidney problems
  • Patellar Luxation

NATIONAL CLUBS AND/OR ORGANIZATIONS

American Lhasa Apso Club Inc.
18549 Blythwood Dr.
Los Gatos, CA 95030

FUN FACT(S)

A Lhasa Apso was given as a gift from the Dalai Lama to an American naturalist in the early 20th century.
Written by: PetsMD Veterinary Editorial Staff