Lhasa Apso

Group: Non sporting
Size: Small
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Exercise: Very low
Grooming: High
Trainability: Very low
Area of Origin: Tibet
Date of Origin: Ancient times
Original Function: Companion, watchdog

History
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 breed slowly found its way around the world; in fact the first Lhasas to appear in the States were gifts presented by the Dalai Lama to American friends.

Temperament
Bred as an indoor watchdog for over 2000 years, the Lhasa by nature is wary of strangers but is friendly and open with those he knows and loves. He is keen, alert, and loyal.

Upkeep
The Lhasa 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. It makes a fine apartment dog. It is not suited for outdoor living. The long coat needs brushing and combing every other day.

Breeders

Unfortunately there are no known breeders of the Lhasa Apso at this time. Please take a look at some alternative suggestions below or if you know of a registered breeder please contact us.

You may also be interested in:’

• Shih Tzu

• Maltese

• Havanese

Breed information sourced from: https://www.dogsnz.org.nz
Images sourced from Google Images.
No copyright infringement intended.