A white Lhasa Apso with long hair poses in a natural setting.

Lhasa Apso

Height
9 - 11"
Weight
13 - 15 lbs
Type
Non-Sporting
Life Expectancy
12 - 14 years
Area of Origin
Tibet
The Lhasa Apso is an intelligent, independent, and regal companion breed that originated in the Himalayan Mountains thousands of years ago. For centuries, Tibetan monks kept these small, dignified dogs in the Buddhist monasteries near Lhasa, a city considered to be sacred. The term “Apso” translates to “longhaired dog” in Tibetan, but the breed was specifically called “Apso Seng Kye," which means “Hairy Lion Dog” and references their sacred mythological background. Today, these petite, elegant dogs make fantastic family companions in any living situation, including cities and small apartments. They are affectionate with children, but can still hone in on their guardian heritage, protecting family members in the presence of strangers and unknown dogs. A loud, high-pitched bark is characteristic for the breed when alerting their family to something suspicious. When not on alert, the breed is quirky and comical in play, as well as warm and loving to those they consider family.
Energy Level
3
Playfulness
4
Friendliness to dogs
3
Friendliness to strangers
2
exercise requirements
2
affection level
4
friendliness to other pets
4
watchfulness
4
Grooming Requirements
5
Vocality
3

Where Is the Lhasa Apso From?

Lhasa Apsos were kept in Buddhist monasteries in Tibet for both companionship and protection. Dalai Lamas would occasionally send pairs to royal families in China, as they were thought to bring good luck and success to those who owned them. The breed inspired much folklore, specifically a myth about a flying “Snow Lion” that made nests in the skies and birthed two Apsos: one with wings and one without. The Snow Lion laid the wingless Apso on Tibetan ground, creating the very first Lhasa Apso dog.

It was also thought that deceased monks were brought back as Lhasa Apsos and, likewise, when a Lhasa Apso dog died, they were brought back as a human child. With all the mythology and sanctity surrounding the breed, they were kept very close and isolated to Tibet for many centuries. It wasn’t until the 1930s that an American received a pair as gifts from the 13th Dalai Lama, establishing the breed in the United States for the first time. By 1935, the breed was registered with the American Kennel Club as part of the Terrier Group, but was ultimately transferred to the Non-Sporting Group in the 1950s.

Caring for a Lhasa Apso

What Kind of Diet Does a Lhasa Apso Need?

What Kind of Diet Does a Lhasa Apso Need?

A diet with higher fat and protein content is recommended for Lhasa Apsos to support their dense coat. However, overfeeding should be avoided, as this breed is prone to gastrointestinal distress.

How Much Grooming Does a Lhasa Apso Need?

How Much Grooming Does a Lhasa Apso Need?

The breed’s signature hair coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting.

Are Lhasa Apso's Healthy Dogs?

Are Lhasa Apso's Healthy Dogs?

The Lhasa Apso is a hearty and healthy dog breed, typically living for upwards of 14 years.

Sebaceous adenitis, a genetic disease that causes inflammation of the sebaceous glands in the skin, is a common health concern for the breed. This disease can result in dry, scaly skin and hair loss.

Lhasa Apsos are predisposed to: allergies, sebaceous adenitis, cherry eye, dry eye, retinal atrophy, inherited renal dysplasia, and patellar luxation.

How Much Training Does a Lhasa Apso Need?

How Much Training Does a Lhasa Apso Need?

The Lhasa Apso is an independent, intelligent, and often stubborn breed that benefits from early and consistent obedience training. A significant amount of human interaction and socialization is recommended during their formative years.

How Much Exercise Does a Lhasa Apso Need?

How Much Exercise Does a Lhasa Apso Need?

Lhasa Apsos have moderate exercise requirements. Regular walks during the day and light play at night are sufficient for daily activity.

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What Are the Physical Characteristics of a Lhasa Apso?

How Big Are Lhasa Apsos?
The Lhasa Apso is a short, hardy dog with a distinctive long, flowing coat that is commonly parted down the middle from head to tail. They are rectangular in shape, with an upright and curled tail. They average 9 to 11 inches in height and weigh between 13 and 15 pounds.
Lhasa Apso Head and Facial Features
The Lhasa Apso has a narrow head with brown eyes that are typically surrounded by darkly pigmented fur. Their ears are triangular and hang downward, close to the muzzle.
Are Lhasa Apsos Strong?
The Lhasa Apso has a well-balanced body, but they are not especially muscular. Their overall shape is rectangular and, size wise, they are rather petite.
How Do Lhasa Apsos Carry Their Tails?
The Lhasa Apso tail is typically curled on the back or dropped over the side.
Lhasa Apso Front Legs
The breed’s forelimbs are straight, with equal distance from shoulder to elbow and elbow to ground. Their shoulders are set back and feet are rounded, boasting tough, protective pads.
What Colors Are Lhasa Apsos?
Although tan coloring is most commonly seen in Lhasa Apsos, all variations of coat color are acceptable. Honey, black, white, and red are all possibilities.
Lhasa Apso Back Legs
The hindlimbs are straight and parallel to the front limbs. Feet are rounded and the entire length of the limbs is well-feathered, exactly like the front limbs.
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Lhasa Apso Facts

The Lhasa Apso was the first of the three breeds from Tibet to be recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Lhasa Apsos are slow to mature, not becoming fully grown until 3 - 4 years of age.
The breed is extremely popular with celebrities, including Gwen Stefani, Elizabeth Taylor, and Ellen DeGeneres.
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Other Breeds to Explore

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Maltese
Yorkshire Terrier
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References

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