Lhasa Apso
Quick Summary
Independent watchdog with ancient heritage, ideal for owners seeking a loyal, low-shedding companion. Requires dedication to grooming and training, best suited for patient, experienced owners.
Contents
Weight Range
12-18 lbs
♂ Male: 12-18 lbs
♀ Female: 12-18 lbs
Height Range
25-28 inches
♂ Male: 10-11"
♀ Female: 10-11"
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #52
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Non-Sporting Group
Originally bred for Serving as sentinel dogs in Tibetan monasteries and palaces since 800 BC, these alert watchdogs protected Buddhist monasteries and warned of approaching strangers
Popularity
#71
Moderately popular breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 10"-11" |
| Female Height | 10"-11" |
| Male Weight | 12-18 lbs |
| Female Weight | 12-18 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($1000-2000), supplies, and vaccinations. Monthly expenses cover premium food, grooming supplies, and regular professional grooming. Healthcare costs include routine checkups and potential eye care.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Displays confident, intelligent, and sometimes stubborn personality. Moderate energy levels suit apartment living. Shows devotion to family while maintaining characteristic independence. Alert and protective nature makes excellent watchdog.
Social Needs
Moderately social dogs requiring regular family interaction but comfortable with alone time. Can be reserved with other dogs and strangers. Benefits from early socialization but maintains independent nature.
Breed Overview
Lhasa Apsos feature a long, dense double coat flowing to the ground, with a distinctive beard and fall of hair over the eyes. Their compact, sturdy build belies their agile nature. Distinguished by an alert, lion-like expression and well-feathered tail carried over the back, these dogs combine regal bearing with a mischievous charm. Their confident yet reserved demeanor reflects their ancient heritage as Tibetan sentinels.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Loyal and devoted
- ✓ Good apartment dog
- ✓ Long lifespan
- ✓ Minimal shedding
- ✓ Excellent watchdog
Cons
- ✗ High grooming needs
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ Reserved with strangers
- ✗ Frequent barking
- ✗ Independent nature
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Confident, Smart, Comical |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Independent |
| Grooming Needs | 2-3 Times a Week Brushing |
| Shedding | Infrequent |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 30-45 minutes of daily exercise through moderate walks and indoor play sessions. Enjoys interactive games and short training periods. Moderate intensity level suits their size and energy, making them adaptable to various activity types.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 1-1.5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention to portion control prevents weight gain. Small kibble size recommended for easier consumption. Consider age-specific formulas.
Feed 1-1.5 cups of premium dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Choose age-appropriate formulas with high-quality protein. Monitor weight closely as breed can become overweight. Fresh water always available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adapts well to apartment living with sufficient exercise. Ideal for small spaces but needs regular outdoor access. Tolerates various climates but requires indoor comfort during temperature extremes.
Adapts well to small spaces including apartments. Requires minimal outdoor area but appreciates a secure space for exercise. Highly adaptable to various living situations with proper exercise.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Developed in Tibet's isolated mountain monasteries, Lhasa Apsos served as interior sentinels while Tibetan Mastiffs guarded the exterior. Their name derives from Lhasa, Tibet's sacred city, and 'apso' meaning bearded.
Historical Purpose
Serving as sentinel dogs in Tibetan monasteries and palaces since 800 BC, these alert watchdogs protected Buddhist monasteries and warned of approaching strangers.
Fun Fact
Lhasa Apsos were considered so sacred in Tibet that they could never be sold, only given as gifts.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular grooming essential for coat maintenance. Moderate exercise needs but requires consistent training. Watch for eye and joint health issues throughout life.