Lhasa Apsos need a daily walk. Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs that do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe, open area off lead, such as a large, fenced-in yard. The Lhasa Apso is longer than it is tall, with a strong loin. Although the breed has never been used for purposes requiring great athleticism, it should nonetheless have a strong loin and well-developed quarters and thighs. The head is well-covered with a good fall over the eyes and good whiskers and beard, imparting a dignified, almost lionlike look. The bite should be either level or slightly undershot. The coat is heavy, straight, long and hard. Despite its lap-dog appearance, the Lhasa is a tough character. It is independent, stubborn and bold. Although it is eager for a romp or game, it will be happy as long as it is given exercise. It will also happily snooze beside its owner. These characteristics make it an excellent small companion in adventure. It is somewhat reserved with strangers. The Lhasa Apso originated in Tibet in the Himalayan Mountains hundreds of years ago. It's named after the sacred city of Lhasa. For years the breed remained solely bred in Tibet by holy men and nobles. It was used as a watchdog in temples and monasteries. The dog was considered sacred. The belief was that when its master died the master's soul entered the Lhasa Apso's body. The breed was not easy to come across and was hard to buy. The dogs were considered good luck to their owners. In 1933 the dogs spread to other parts of the world thanks to C. Suydam Cutting, who introduced the first Lhasas to the USA as gifts from the 13th Dalai Lama. Tibet's ruler would present them to visiting foreign diplomats. The Lhasa Apso first appeared in Britain in the 1920s and in the USA in 1930. It was first recognized by the AKC in 1935.
06: | Duke |
Litter Size: | 4-6 puppies |
02: | Buddy |
Apartment Friendly: | 5 stars These dogs are good for apartment living. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. |
Child Friendly: | 5 stars Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them. |
Name: | Lhasa Apso |
Playfulness: | 4 stars |
Shedding Level: | 4 stars Moderate Shedding: Expect this dog to shed regularly. Be prepared to vacuum often. Brushing will reduce shedding as well as make the coat softer and cleaner. |
Watchdog Ability: | 3 stars |
04: | Teddy |
08: | Sam |
Cat Friendly: | 5 stars |
Puppy Prices: | Average $1500 - $2500 USD Usually, the average price of a Lhasa Apso puppy from a reputable breeder is between $1,500 and $2,500, while a top-quality Lhasa Apso puppy can cost as high as $3,000. Their price depends upon the pup’s age, sex, quality, pedigree, and breeder’s location. |
Rank: | Boy Names |
10: | Cody |
Barking Tendencies: | 5 stars Frequent |
Grooming: | 5 stars High Maintenance: Grooming should be performed often to keep the dog's coat in good shape. Professional groomers can be sought after for assistance. No trimming or stripping needed. |
Height: | 10-11 inches (25-28 cm) |
Intelligence: | 3 stars Ranking: #68 Full Ranking List |
Other names: | Lhasa, Lion Dog |
Type: | Purebred |
05: | Oliver |
Adaptability: | 5 stars |
Health Issues: | 2 stars Hypoallergenic: No |
Size: | Smallest |
09: | Oscar |
Breed Group: | Non Sporting (AKC:1935) Companion Breeds (UKC) |
Life span: | 12-15 years |
Origin: | Tibet |
Popularity: | 2022: #86 2021: #84 2020: #78 2019: #78 2018: #71 2017: #77 2016: #71 2015: #65 |
Stranger Friendly: | 3 stars |
Trainability: | 3 stars Moderately Easy Training: This breed can be somewhat obstinate. Always use positive reinforcement, and never use harsh words. |
Temperament: | Alert Assertive Devoted Friendly Intelligent Lively Obedient Playful Spirited Steady |
01: | Max |
03: | Harley |
07: | Milo |
Colors: | Black Brown Red White Yellow |
Dog Friendly: | 5 stars |
Exercise Needs: | 2 stars More + Less - Lhasa Apsos need a daily walk. Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs, however, as with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs that do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe, open area off lead, such as a large, fenced-in yard. |
Weight: | 13-15 pounds (5.9-6.8 kg) |