Lhasa Apso Breed Profile
KC Group Utility
Size Small
Height Dogs 25cm; bitches slightly smaller
Good with children? Yes
Good guard dogs? Would bark
Moulting level Low
Grooming Heavy
Exercise requirement Little
Jogging partner Yes
Colours Golden, sandy, honey, dark grizzle, slate, smoke, parti-coloured, black, white, or brown.
Lhasa Apso Breed Profile
With his free, jaunty movement, high set tail, and alert nature — and his trainability (when he feels like it!) — he makes for a great companion.
Lhasa Apsos originated in the city of Lhasa, Tibet. There they were used to alert the monks of any intruders into their monasteries and were supposed to follow the intruder whilst barking to draw attention. Traditionally Lhasas were not exchanged for money but given as a gift where they were believed to bring good fortune.
Lhasa Apsos were jealously guarded. They wanted for nothing their monastic owners could give them, but led a very enclosed life. This seems to have produced a companion dog who is better able than many to live in the confined spaces of an urban environment, with owners who fall for his enchanting, self-contained nature. Despite this however, they can enjoy country living too, and some will even make a spirited attempt at tackling vermin (although mostly with dubious success).
Lhasa Apso character
An alert, lively and courageous little breed. Excellent watchdog abilities and very confident and sociable. Lhasa Apso's need supervision whilst with children as they are quite sensitive to loud noises and rough play.
Lhasa Apso size
25cm at the shoulder, bitches should measure slightly less. Weight is between 4-7kg.
Lhasa Apso health
The Lhasa Apso Club indicates that the breed is susceptible to a condition called Progressive Retinal Atrophy, which affects their eyesight. Other than that the breed is generally healthy and long lived, an average lifespan of 15 years being well above the norm.
Lhasa Apso care
They are very confident dogs and will require you to assert your dominance over them in a kind and consistent manner. They should be supervised around young children
Remember! All breed profiles are general and every dog is an individual.