Lhasa Apso Details

The Lhasa Apso is a non-sporting dog breed originating in Tibet. It was bred as an interior sentinel in the Buddhist monasteries, to alert the monks to any intruders who entered

Lifespan: 12 – 14 years

Coat: Long, dense

Litter size: 4–6 puppies

Temperament: Fearless, Steady, Assertive, Lively, Energetic, Devoted, Obedient, Spirited, Alert, Intelligent, Playful, Friendly

Height: Female: 25–28 cm, Male: 25–28 cm

Weight: Female: 5–7 kg, Male: 6–8 kg

Highlights

• The Lhasa is highly independent; his aim is to please himself, not you.
• The Lhasa is a leader, and he'll be your leader if you allow him to.
• The Lhasa is a naturally protective watchdog. There's no changing this, though you can teach him good canine manners. Early, positive socialization is essential to help him become a friendly, sociable pet.
• The Lhasa matures slowly. Don't expect too much too soon.
• The beautiful Lhasa coat needs a lot of grooming. Expect to do a lot of work, or to pay a professional groomer.
• Dental care is essential. Brush the Lhasa's teeth regularly, and have your veterinarian check his teeth and gums periodically.
• To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill, or pet store. Look for a reputable breeder who tests her breeding dogs to make sure they're free of genetic diseases that they might pass onto the puppies, and that they have sound temperaments.

History

The Lhasa comes from Tibet, and he takes his name from the holy city of Lhasa. For thousands of years, the Lhasa was bred exclusively by nobility and monks in monasteries to act an inside guard and protector. He's known in his homeland as Abso Seng Kye, which translates as "Bark Lion Sentinel Dog." The Lhasa's thick coat is protective; his native climate is one of intense cold and extreme heat.

The recorded history of the breed goes back to 800 B.C. A Lhasa was considered good luck, but it was nearly impossible to buy one: he was a watchdog in temples and monasteries and was therefore considered sacred. It was thought that when an owner died, the human soul entered the body of his Lhasa Apso. Lhasas were not allowed to leave the country except when given as gifts by the Dalai Lama.

From the beginning of the Manchu Dynasty in 1583 until as recently as 1908, the Dalai Lama sent Lhasas as sacred gifts to the Emperor of China and members of the Imperial family. The Lhasas were always given in pairs and were thought to bring with them good luck and prosperity.

The first Lhasas to enter the United States directly were given as gifts by the 13th Dalai Lama in 1933 to C. Suydam Cutting, a noted world traveler, and naturalist. Cutting owned Hamilton Farm in Gladstone, New Jersey, and the two gift dogs became the foundation stock for his kennel.

The American Kennel Club accepted the Lhasa Apso as a breed in 1935.

Size

Males stand 10 to 11 inches high and weigh 13 to 15 pounds; females are slightly smaller.