The Lhasa apso, or lhaso apso, is a small dog characterized by its long and thick coat. This little dog looks like a miniature version of the Old English Sheepdog and is originally from Tibet. Although little known, the Lhasa Apso is a very popular dog in its region and, despite its diminutive size, it is one of the quintessential guard dogs.
Discover on our site everything about the lshasa apso, a dog that despite its small size has an exceptionally brave and unique character. In addition, we will also detail with you some tricks for your care and for you to enjoy good he alth.
Keep reading to find out if the Lhasa Apso is the right dog for you:
History of the lhasa apso
The Lhasa apso hails from the city of Lhassa in Tibet and was originally bred as a guard dog for Tibetan monasteries. It is one of the best examples that a small dog can be a great guardian.
While the Tibetan mastiff was used for guarding outside monasteries, the Lhasa apso was preferred for guarding inside monasteries. He was also employed in public relations, since dogs of this breed were given to visiting personalities from other latitudes. In his homeland he is still known as Abso Seng Kye, which means something like "dog-lion sentinel". Possibly the "lion" comes from his abundant mane, or perhaps from his great courage and courage.
Although originally bred as a guard dog, today's Lhasa apso is a companion dog. The long and dense coat that was very useful for keeping warm and avoiding the strong solar radiation in Tibet, today is just one more attraction of these small but brave dogs.
Characteristics of the lhasa apso
The head of the Lhasa apso is covered with abundant hair, which covers the dog's eyes and forms a well-developed beard and whiskers. The relatively narrow skull should not be flattened, but neither should it be domed or apple-shaped. It is attached to the body through a strong, well-arched neck. The muzzle, short in relation to the length of the skull, is straight and the nose is black. The stop is moderate and the bite is inverted scissors (the upper incisors close just behind the lower ones).
The eyes of the Lhasa apso are oval, medium in size and dark. The ears are hanging and covered with fringes.
The body is small, and longer than it is tall. It is covered with abundant and long hair. The topline is straight and the loin is strong. The forelimbs of the Lhasa apso are straight, while the hindlimbs are well angled. The hocks should be parallel to each other. The Lhasa apso has long, coarse-textured fur, which covers its entire body and falls to the ground. The most popular colors in this breed are gold, white and honey, but others are also accepted, such as smoke, dark gray, slate, multi-colored, black and brown.
The tail of the Lhasa apso is set high and the dog carries it on the back, but not in the form of a handle. Often folded at the end, it is covered with abundant fur that forms fringes along its entire length.
The height at the withers of the males is around 25.4 centimeters. Females are a little bit smaller. The breed standard used by the International Cinological Federation does not specify a certain weight for the Lhasa apso, but these dogs generally weigh around 6.5 kilograms.
Lhasa apso character
Although it is a small dog, the Lhasa apso is not a lapdog Given its use as a guard dog, the Lhasa apso has evolved as a self-confident, strong and active dog that requires physical and mental exercise. However, today it is classified among companion dogs due to its size and appearance.
This dog breed tends to be independent, so early socialization is very important. Although it is a dog that is fond of cuddles and caresses, it tends to be a bit distrustful of strangers.
The small size of this breed suggests that it is suitable as a companion for children. This is a mistake. A properly socialized Lhasa apso will make good company for any family, but children pose an apparent (and often real) threat to most small dogs. Therefore, the Lhasa apso is more suitable for families with grown children or children who are mature enough to properly care for their dog.
Lhasa apso care
It is worth noting the difficulty of caring for the coat of the Lhasa apso. These dogs need frequent brushing, even more than once a day. Otherwise, the hair will become tangled and knots will form. This particular need is inconvenient for those who do not have enough time and for those who want to share outdoor activities with their dog. Although the Lhasa apso needs play and exercise, his demand for exercise is not high and he can live comfortably in an apartment.
Lhasa Apso Education
To begin with, and as happens with the education of any puppy, it will be very important to start treating socialization early so that the dog can learn to relate to people, animals and objects of all kinds, without suffering fears or phobias. On the other hand, at the arrival of his adult stage it will be very important to start practicing the basic orders of obedience that will help us facilitate communication with him.
Positive reinforcement works great with this breed. Therefore, it is more correct to say that the Lhasa apso is an easy dog to train if the right methods are used.
lhasa apso he alth
Overall, the Lhasa apso is a very he althy dog However, skin problems can occur if the coat is not maintained he althy. It is also known that this breed can have a slight tendency to hip dysplasia, kidney problems and ulcers. regular veterinary check-ups will help us detect any type of problem or discomfort.
We must follow the stipulated vaccination schedule and pay close attention to external parasites, which find the Lhasa apso a very attractive host. Deworming the dog externally on a monthly basis is essential.
