Last Updated on September 20, 2023
It is said that the Lhasa Apso is a tiny puppy with extravagantly lengthy locks. Despite his tiny frame it is brimming with dog-like characteristics. This is the reason the reason why the world is filled with passionate Apso followers across the world. It’s difficult to comprehend that this dog isn’t more famous than he already is!
If you’re planning to be welcoming any of these adorable dogs into your home or are interested in knowing what the Apso excitement is about, you’re on the right page!
This guide to breeds will give you a complete Lhasa Apso training. We’ll begin with his background and how it influences the character of his dog. Then, we’ll concentrate on aspects like his extreme grooming requirements and the amount of exercise he needs, how to teach him to be an obedience dog, and so on. Are you interested in learning everything there is to know about this dog? Let’s get started!
History
It is an old breed which dates back to 800 B.C. The name is derived from the city of Tibet that is sacred to Tibetans, Lhasa. The name also means “long-haired dog. His initial role was that of a dog sentinel inside the palaces as well as Buddhist monasteries. Mastiffs were the primary line of defense in the outside and Lhasas served as the canine alarm systems inside. In his home country the country of his birth, he’s known as Abso Seng Kye, which means “Bark Lion Sentinel Dog..’
Lhasa Apsos remain as sacred animals and are revered by royalty as well as ordinary citizens. It was believed the moment a monk died to die his soul would pass into the dog and live forever. The holy dog was an highly guarded nation’s treasure. It was forbidden for them from leaving the nation, unless granted to Dalai Lama. Dalai Lama.
A pair of Lhasa Apsos was given by the Tibetans to America by the American government in 1933 to a famous traveler, Suydam Cutting. The majority of American Lhasas of today are derived from this pair of founders. It was the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed in 1935, as did it was recognized by the American Lhasa Apso Association was founded in 1959.
He is an extremely very rare breed and usually is somewhere between 70th- 80th most adored dog breed. The most famous Lhasa owner are Ellen DeGeneres, Elizabeth Taylor as well as Gwen Stefani. The remake of Lady as well as The Tramp in 2019 was based on Lhasa Apso to portray Peg who was previously an Pekingese.
Temperament
It is known that the Lhasa Apso is, and has always been a dog that protects. If you’re seeking an effective guard dog that is in a compact package take a take a look at this breed. He will stand firm and bark at strangers to alert the person in front of them and to remind the need to be aware of their steps into his territory. If you’re not a fan of barking dogs that are loud and noisy then this isn’t the dog for you. This breed can be a problem for noisy neighbors or with those who live in a noisy environment.
His ferocity and protection is a sign of the loyalty of his family and friends, and he will do anything to protect his family. He is a lion-like figure as well, and has the heart a lion as well. He is warm and affectionate when with family and has gotten used to the lifestyle of luxurious. When it comes to strangers, he’s unassuming, and it will require a long time and a special person for him to become comfortable with strangers.
He’s an Velcro dog that will be with you wherever because he enjoys company whenever it’s available. But, unlike many Velcro dogs, he does not like being in his own space for a short period of time. The Lhasa is a confident and elegant dog, for sure. He isn’t often afflicted with separation anxiety, which makes him a calm dog in this regard.
He’s an hilarious canine and is known for his hilarious things. The act of showing off his talents to his family members is one of his most favorite activities, and he’s always ready for playing tug-of-war or fetch. He has a long time to mature, and behaves like a puppy until his later years.
He’s a jolly guy, and constantly trying to test the limits and try to see what he can come up with. Some describe his character as that of the terrier. This is fittingconsidering that the breed was once called”the” Lhasa Apso Terrier.
Size & Appearance
The dog breed can be classified an smaller-sized breed of dog. They weigh between 12 to 18 pounds. Males are between 10 and 11 inches tall, from paw to cusp and females are ever less, so they are a little smaller. Females should appear feminine, while males must look more strong. Overall, he’s got a slim solid, well-balanced, rectangular frame with a straight topline and a pluming tail that hangs comfortably across his back.
His eyes are tiny and button-like, never light in hue, and concealed by the hair that he has. The Lhasa’s nose is frame by a jolly smile. The feet are nicely trimmed with hair, and often tidy to prevent grinch-like feet. The breed is similar to a lot of other short, long Asian dogs. He is frequently mistaken with Shih Tzu. Shih Tzu.
If you’re planning to take the breed of your Lhasa Apso into breed conformation shows, he’ll have to be in line with the standard of the breed. If it’s in line with the breed standard or not, a dog’s appearance has no bearing on the character of his owner.
Coat & Colors
The Lhasa Apso is most well-known for its gorgeous locks. He is a large double-coated dog with long straight, hard, straight hair. The pups shouldn’t feel wooly or silky even though they appear smooth and soft. Hair falls onto the ground, acting as a mop for dust and dirt. Hair around the eyes will get longer and this is the reason why many people put their hair in a ponytail to enhance their vision.
They come in a variety of gorgeous doggy shades. The most popular colors include black, black and golden, cream and red, as well as grizzle white and red gold. However, many are also available in charcoal, blue and gray, as well as liver and silver. They also have a variety of markings and patterns, like sable, brindle white patches, particolored. The most popular is dark facial masks and ear tips that are darker.
Exercise Requirements
The breed is an incredibly active dog for his size. He requires at minimum 30 minutes of enjoyable daily. It doesn’t need to be a particularly vigorous exercise however it does have to be engaging to him. Otherwise, this majestic dog will be a bit irritable when you mention walks! For a fun and exciting workout, you can try changing up your workout routine by exploring new locations and having fun in the park.
While he is a fan of laying on his master’s lap however, he’s not a traditional lap dog. He requires stimulation all day long in order to keep his brain active and his paws engaged. If he doesn’t, he’ll be quite a naughty puppy! Make sure you purchase toys that you can play with together with him as well as allow him to have fun independently.
An excellent way to get rid of extra power is to go to the dog park in your neighborhood. Be aware that he’ll try to establish himself as the one who is the leader. Most of the time large dogs will be to the with the group! This is also an excellent method to get him socialized so that it doesn’t cause him to become overprotective of his family and home.
Living Conditions
It’s the Lhasa Apso is small enough to fit in any home. From tiny city apartments to sprawling, sprawling rural estates, the dog will easily adapt. However, wherever you are it is important to ensure that your property and home are safe. The lion dog can wander around in the hopes of finding someone or other animal to take off. He’ll also chase down bad guys and wander off while he’s gone.
He’s a dog who is friendly with other dogs and would be content with other dogs. He isn’t afraid of big dogs and is able to manage his own play fights. If he is socialized properly and training, he can befriend other animals. He is also very fond of children and despite being sensitive to young, exuberant children, he has limits. It is important to teach children how to interact properly with dogs, and to always supervise the dogs together.
The ideal family is one that is at home most of the time, but like we said that he’s content to spend some time alone. The family members must be relatively active, but thankfully not too often. In general, he’s an adaptable dog who is generally a good dog so long as his primary requirements are satisfied.
Training
The dogs may be tiny, but they have the characteristics like the Lion. This means that he’s determined and believes that he’s the boss. The description of him is that he is a complicated dog. On the one hand, he’s affectionate and playful. However, he has an temperamental and abrasive aspect which can make training challenging. It is a fact that the Lhasa is best left to an knowledgeable dog owner who knows what to do in order to make the most from him.
Many Lhasa Apsos are afflicted with what is called by dog behaviorists the syndrome of small dogs. It is a condition that happens when small harmless canines are allowed to do whatever they want. This can cause a lot of problems. In addition to of their tendency to guard it is essential to set house rules and a schedule starting from the beginning. If not, he’ll rule over the flock.
Training with positive reinforcement is the most effective method to train this breed. There must be something for the dog to be taught. He’s also likely to get angry when you’re harsh to him. Spend some time finding out what your dog enjoys and incorporate this as a part of your training program to keep him motivated. Every dog is different It’s crucial to discover the things that work for your dog.
Socialization is essential for every dog, however especially for dogs that are overprotective like this adorable Lhasa. The ideal time for dog socialization is between 3 and 12 weeks. A reliable breeder will begin the process however it’s your responsibility to carry on the process when you bring your pet to your home.
Mix him up with as many strangers and new dog breeds that you are able to. Introduce him to the things will be encountered in his new surroundings, like noisy sidewalks as well as elevator rides and the grooming routine. This will boost the confidence of him and help instill the habit of politeness in him.
Another crucial aspect of training that you should take into consideration is the “quiet” command. It can make your life much easier by its loud methods and will help you avoid a lot of hassles as well. The Lhasa is never going to be a protector however, he must be taught that a couple of barks is enough. If not, he’ll drag you in trouble with your neighbors.
Health
There are a variety of things responsible dog owners must do to ensure the health of their pet. Making sure that your dog is fed the highest-quality food could be afforded is an easy method to ensure that he is well. In addition to keeping him active with regular exercise, and staying up-to-date with health checks by a veterinarian. A responsible breeder who is able to give you the appropriate health certificates is essential for ensuring the health of your puppy.
It is believed that the Lhasa Apso is a fairly healthy breed and this is evident in his expected long lifespan of between 12 and 15 years. Smaller breeds tend to live longer than bigger breeds like the Mastiff and the Mastiff, which is one of the main reasons for his. However, like all breeds of dogs they can be susceptible to a fair amount of health issues. It is important to research the following most common issues to be prepared in case the worst happens.
Familial Inherited Renal Dysplasia
This is among the most frequent conditions within the dog breed. It occurs when a puppy has unusually shaped or tiny kidneys. The severity of this disease is different. Certain pups suffer from total renal failure, while others will be healthy and not show any signs. The most frequent signs are an excessive thirst and a large abdomen.
Eye Conditions
As with many breeds of dogs they have a number of eye diseases. The most frequent issues include the progressive retinal atrophy, the keratitis condition, and the cherries eye. It is important to examine the appearance of the eyes and his vision. Responsible breeders must provide health certificates through OFA. Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).
Patella Luxation
It is a health issue that is mainly affecting smaller breeds, which includes this breed. Patella refers to the medical term of the kneecap. In essence, the kneecap isn’t sitting correctly and it can float between the proper position. This is a painful problem that may limit mobility. The symptoms include the ability to kick out the affected leg, and an unnatural gait.
Sebaceous Adenitis
It is a severe skin condition that could cause a variety of skin conditions and infections. It occurs when the glands that produce ebaceous fluids within the skin get blocked and affected. This causes swelling and hair loss. It also causes an unpleasant smell. The treatment is based upon the extent of issue.
Nutrition
Due to his tiny size Due to his small size, the Lhasa Apso does not carry with him a massive monthly bill for food. A typical dog will consume about 1.5 cup of meals each day.
Every dog is unique and have different lives which means that some dogs will consume less food, while others consume more food than others. It is important to adhere to the instructions on the packaging according to the size and habits of your dog. This will require some experimentation and trial, however it’s crucial to not feed him.
As a puppy is a must, so you’ll need to choose the right kibble specifically made for dogs of smaller breeds. The pieces of kibble smaller to fit the tiny mouth of your dog however, it also has the best nutrition for dogs with smaller breeds. It is also essential to feed him a diet that is appropriate for his age particularly during puppyhood, where he requires more omega fats and protein.
The importance of quality pet food is far more significant than many dog owners believe. It is able to reduce health risks and improve overall health. If your dog has an inheritable renal disease Your vet might recommend a special diet for renal health. Make sure you talk with them.
Grooming
The grooming regimen for them could be extremely high-maintenance or fairly simple depending on the haircut you decide for. If you choose to go with the traditional long coat or would like to showcase your dog in the show ring, he’s one of the extremely high-maintenance dog. You’ll have to groom him regularly to get rid of all the dirt and particles that get trapped in his hair.
If you don’t have the time or energy to do this kind of grooming, then you could choose to go for the “puppy coat.’ Essentially, it’s a place where hair is cut short and follows the contours that runs along the back of your body. If you choose to go with this type of coat, you’ll just need to brush once or every two weeks to make sure that no matting occur. However, he’ll be able to pick up less dirt and have less odor, too. A lot of dog owners take their dogs to groomers on a regular basis to ensure they look at their best.
They typically have an longer, natural coat that may also require bathing as well as shampooing and conditioning each two weeks. In contrast to the cut of a puppy that requires bathing only once each six weeks, or more. Make sure you choose the right shampoo specifically for dogs and takes care of their delicate skin. If your dog suffers from sebaceous adenitisthen he’ll likely require a special condition or a medicated shampoo.
Smaller dogs’ mouths are more cramped and, consequently, require brushing their teeth more frequently. Therefore, it’s crucial to brush your dog’s teeth at least 3 times per week using special toothpaste for dogs to prevent periodontal disease at the horizon.
The nails of his will require trimming each two weeks or as often. In the event that they don’t, they’ll grow excessively long, and pain-inducing. Therefore, make sure you be on the lookout for his hairy claws.
Many potential owners believe that Lhasa Apsos are not allergic However, this is not the case. Their dander gets stuck in their hair long, however, they are moderate shedders all through the all year. If you’re looking for an extremely small and hypoallergenic pet and they both Maltese as well as Maltipoo are suitable. Maltipoo can be Hypoallergenic and are similar in size.
Breeders & Puppy Costs
As we’ve already discussed that as we have already mentioned, the Lhasa Apso is a very rare breed within America. This means that you’ll have to travel further to locate an accredited breeder. However, this will depend on the location you reside in! Breeders with good reputations are likely to be on waiting lists. However, don’t fret it’s a good indication that they good care of their puppies instead of just pumping the most puppies out as they can.
A responsible breeder is likely to meet with you in person and will be able to inquire about the reasons you’ve chosen this breed. They’ll be extremely friendly and knowledgeable. They will insist that you meet their puppies together with their mother. They’ll also provide pertinent health certificates. A excellent place to begin your search for a puppy by visiting the AKC’s Lhasa Apso breeders page.
The cost of an purebred puppy is $1,000 however, it could go up to thousands, depending upon the breeder that you select. If you see an Lhasa puppy for sale at anything less than that then you must take it as a red flag.
Breeders who are irresponsible and unreliable attract customers with cheap costs however, in return they don’t care about their pups. This means that you’ll end up with an unsocialized, poorly-trained puppy that will cost you much more over the long haul. Avoid these!
There are other expenses associated with becoming an owner of a dog than the initial cost of a puppy. While this breed isn’t the least expensive, you must be financially capable of caring for your dog and his needs regardless of what happens. Think about things like collars, beds, crates and harnesses, toys and all the other things dogs require. Also, grooming, veterinary care and insurance costs.
Rescues & Shelters
A brand new, sparkling pup from an breeder is not the ideal choice for every person. However, it’s not the only choice! Many dogs out there waiting to find their forever home at rescue facilities all over America. But, keep in the mind that this breed is not a common dog which means he’ll be a rare breed in shelters for rescue.
There are two choices for people who want adoption of an Apso. The first is to go to the local shelter for rescue and talk to members of the shelter. They can guide about the process of adoption and may even direct you to an animal rescue center.
Another option is to get contact with rescues that specialize in breeds. One ideal place to begin your adoption journey is to contact Lhasa Happy Homes rescue organization or the Lhasa Happy Homes rescue group as well as the Lhasa Apso Rescue Facebook page.
As Family Pets
- The Lhasa Apso is a tiny puppy that is happy in any home size.
- He may be small however, he is an excellent guard dog.
- This adorable pup will show everyone who’s boss by his cute roars of a lion.
- His protectionist nature makes him cautious and distant from strangers.
- As for his family, he’s extremely affectionate and loving.
- Lhasa’s needs only 30 minutes of exercise each day.
- He will be spending the majority of the day at you.
- Thankfully, this dog is also an independent dog.
- He doesn’t mind being home on his own for a short period of time.
- This is a dog that’s active who is always up to play tug-of-war or fetch.
- They are able to live with other animals for as long as they are socialized.
- He loves children, however, he has a limit for children who are overly excited.
- It’s crucial for you to show your kids how to behave in a manner that is appropriate for dogs.
- He is a shrewd and complicated small dog.
- This is why he’s most suitable to a seasoned pet owner who is able to handle domineering dogs.
Final Thoughts
It is believed that the Lhasa Apso is a rare breed in America. After having read our article, you’re probably wondering what the reason! The only thing that we can imagine is that he’s difficult to train due to his incredibly protective nature. If you’ve got the knowledge to handle this dog’s complex nature then you’re definitely going to be in for a surprise.
He’s funny, affectionate, easy-going, and easily adapted to the new environment. There’s no dull moment when this dog, and He is also content to be left on his own for a couple of hours. This makes him distinct from other dogs that are small and needy. A lot of breed lovers affirm that this Lion dog is among the most loving canines around. If you’re confident that this dog is the perfect dog for you, then what do you have to lose?