Mary Allen
The Lhasa Apso is a playful and friendly dog, but with an independent personality. He needs good socialization and upbringing so he doesn’t push through his occasional stubbornness. The intelligent animals are very robust and persistent for their size and are well suited as companion and family dogs. Little Tibetans are initially suspicious of strangers and even make good watchdogs.
From Tibetan Lion to Companion & Family Dog
The Lhasa Apso is an ancient Tibetan breed. Already 2000 years ago, these dogs lived in the monasteries of the Tibetan Highlands and in northern India. They also called lion dogs and worshiped them as good luck charms. Smart animals proved to be helpful and unusual for farmers: they looked after stadiums, guarded the house, and protected it from pests. Some of the proud Tibetans arrived at the Chinese imperial court as popular gifts from princes.
Around 1901, the Lhasa Apso came to Great Britain. In 1934, the first standard for small companion dogs was created. The breed was recognized by the FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale) in 1960.
Nature of the Lhasa Apso
They are friendly and alert dogs with high intelligence – they are by no means suitable as clean lap dogs. Strong Lhasa Apso needs a large number of patients and is quite active. With a high degree of reliability, they make excellent guard dogs, even if you don’t always think so.
Lhasa Apso associates themselves with a reference person from whom they expect a loving and sovereign relationship. Well socialized and trained, they prove to be loyal companions and family dogs, but always show a spark of independence.
Training & Maintenance of Lhasa Apso
Because of their independence from the Lhasa breed, Apso must be properly socialized and trained in hygiene from puppyhood. It is highly recommended to attend puppy classes and dog school. Loving but consistent parenting is very important, which is difficult for many owners due to the charming nature of the Lhasa Apso. But a self-confident Tibetan quickly takes advantage of slovenliness in upbringing and can then become domineering.
A live dog can also live in an urban environment, but then it needs long walks and activities in large play areas. Many dogs are also into dog sports but do not overdo it with dogs in order to own the joints of a small one.
Caring for Lhasa Apso
The long heavy topcoat with a thick undercoat underneath should be thoroughly brushed at least twice a week. It is best to keep the coat short so that it can move freely and always have a good view.
Features of Lhasa Apso
Because of their breed, little four-legged friends are prone to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation (patellar disease), and eye disease.