Getting to Know Why the Lhasa Apso Breeds Well in Many Conditions

General Appearance and Description

Small and really lovable dogs, Lhasa Apso breeds came from the Himalayan mountains of Tibet. These dogs are the monks’ favorite and were bred solely for the noble men of Lhasa, a city of temples and monasteries.

It is a sacred dog for the monks and there was a myth that if the dog’s master died, it will enter the dog’s body. Characterized by its long flowing coat, the Lhasa Apso’s length is considerably longer than its height.

It has small dark eyes covered with fur. It has a double coat that can reach the floor if not cut and the colors may vary from white, brown, black, or combination of the three.

Basic Temperament

Lhasa Apso dogs are friendly. However, they can also be assertive at times. They are very intelligent small dogs that are very devoted to their masters. They respond highly to training and show their affection and obedience through their high-spirited ways.

One thing about Lhasa Apso is its ability to travel very well. However, it will not take kindly to strangers if you have not socialized it early on.

A common observation is that Lhasa Apso breeds fall into the Small Dog Syndrome in which they think they are the pack leaders. This behavior is not really a character of the dog but it shows if the owner did not train it well.

Care Required

Lhasa Apso dogs require daily brushing to prevent the hair from getting tangled. The long coat falls on either side and since it is double-coated, you need to dedicate a lot of time to ensure it does not mat.

With hair growing on its ears, too, you will need to check constantly for fleas, ticks, and ear mites.

Exercise Requirements

A thing about Lhasa Apso is its need for a daily walk. With its petite size, one would not think that it has lots of energy and that it requires exercise.

Since it is a playful dog, the playtime may compensate for the walk. But beware, dogs that are not taken for a daily walk are very likely to show behavioral problems.

Training

Lhasa Apso breeds are easy to train. They are submissive and they are very eager to please their masters. Just like small dogs, you need to housetrain your Lhasa Apso as early as two months of age.

It is best to start with housebreaking and potty training before training the dog how to sit or heel. Since the Lhasa Apso is small, it is very likely to sneak in places where it cannot be seen and eliminate there. Extra vigilance is highly recommended during the potty training of this breed.

Height and Weight

The Lhasa Apso can grow up to 11 inches in height. However, females can grow a little less than that. They can also weigh up to 7 kilograms.

If your dog weighs more than this, you may need to check with a veterinarian to see if your dog is developing obesity.

Health and Longevity

The Lhasa Apso is a very healthy breed and can live up to 18 years of taken care of properly. Lhasa Apso breeds are subject to developing skin problems if you do not groom their coats often. You need to ensure that the coat is free from parasites such as ticks and fleas.

Suitability

Since the dog is small, it can live in an apartment and will remain active indoors. It is alright to keep this dog in a house that has no back yard. However, you need to establish authority over this dog because it can become assertive if threatened, especially by little kids.

For more information and everything you need to know about the Lhasa Apso, check out the highly recommended Lhasa Apso eBook and audio package today!