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The Lhasa Apso

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

Height: 10 - 11 inches
Weight: 13 - 15 lbs.

Colors: Solid golden, sandy, honey, dark grizzle, slate or smoke; black parti-color, white or brown.
Coat: Top coat long, heavy, straight and hard. Moderate undercoat.

Temperament: Lhasa Apsos are gentle, loyal
With Children: Yes
With Pets: Yes
Special Skills: Family Pet

Watch-dog: Very High
Guard-dog: Low

Care and Exercise: Daily combing and or brushing is required. Their thick undercoat may become matted if not properly groomed. Pay special attention to matting on the bottoms of the feet. Clean ears and eyes meticulously. Even though they love to walk and play, Lhasa Apsos do not demand exercise, but regular exercise will keep them fit and trim.
Training: Can be obstinate. Patience and no harsh words are the best approach.
Learning Rate: High, Obedience - Low, Problem Solving - Medium

Activity: Indoors - Very High, Outdoors - High
Living Environment: House, apartment, country or city a Lhasa Apso will adapt to their environment. Owners of a Lhasa Apso must be committed to take care of their abundant coat.

Health Issues: May suffer from genetic kidney problems or ear infections.

Life Span: 14 years
Litter Size: 4 - 5

Country of Origin: Tibet
History: They are the most popular of the breeds indigenous to Tibet. The Tibetan Terrier, Tibetan Spaniel and Lhasa Apso all share common ancestors. Sometimes they are known as the Tibetan Apso. The name "apso" means goat-like and they may have been named that as their coat resembles that of the goats kept by Tibetan herders. In Tibet, Lhasa Apsos were a treasured dog of the privilege classes. They are truly an aristocrat, having been bred in a domestic environment for generations. Coming first to Britain in the 1930's and then later to America by 1935.

First Registered by the AKC: 1935
AKC Group:
Class:
Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 9), KC (GB), UKC