The Lhasa Apso
 Trube Kennel |
 Trube Kennel |
Since danger threatened this strange land, a huge Mastiff was chained to a post beside the outer door to prevent intruders from entering, while Lhasa Apso's were kept as special guards inside the dwellings. The little dogs were peculiarly adapted by their intelligence, quick hearing, and finely developed instinct of distinguishing intimates from strangers.
The Lhasa is one of the three Tibetan breeds that are in the AKC's Non-Sporting Group. The other breeds are the Tibetan Terrier and the Tibetan Spaniel. These breeds have two things in common with the Lhasa- their heavy coats to protect them from the harsh climate, and the tail upcurled over the back. The Lhasa was the first of these dogs to be admitted to the AKC. In 1935 it was originally shown in the Terrier Group, but was reassigned to the Non-Sporting Group in 1959.
They are the most popular of the breeds indigenous to Tibet. The Tibetan Terrier, Tibetan Spaniel and Lhasa Apso all share common ancestors. Sometimes they are known as the Tibetan Apso. The name "apso" means goat-like and they may have been named that as their coat resembles that of the goats kept by Tibetan herders. In Tibet, Lhasa Apsos were a treasured dog of the privilege classes. They are truly an aristocrat, having been bred in a domestic environment for generations.
These little dogs are affectionate with their masters, but they will not tolerate rough or badly behaved children. Some are willful and some are very obedient to their masters. This breed responds to motivational training. It should have a dominant owner. They are good watchdogs with a loud, persistent bark, which gives the impression to intruders of a much larger dog. The breed can be noisy and may be too nervous around children and strangers. They are inclined to fight if they are not the only dog in the house. They have a fine sense of hearing. They dislike being alone and can be snappish if surprised or peeved.
Males should be 10-11 inches tall, females slightly smaller. Their coat is heavy, straight and hard. Lhasa's can be gold, cream, and honey are the most popular colors, but the coat also comes in smoke, dark-grizzle, slate and a multi-color assortment of brown, white & black. The coat is straight, hard and heavy, but not silky. The hair should cascade from the head over its eyes. It should have a dark beard and mustache, and a muzzle that is medium-length, but not square. It has small, dark, deep-set eyes and heavy feathered ears. Its neck has an abundant scarf of hair and its tail is feathered and carried over its back.
Daily combing and or brushing of the Lhasa Apso is required. Their thick undercoat may become matted if not properly groomed. Pay special attention to matting on the bottoms of the feet. Clean ears and eyes meticulously. Even though they love to walk and play, Lhasa Apsos do not demand exercise, but regular exercise will keep them fit and trim.
Health conditions include luxating patella, renal dysplasia, hip dysplasia, bladder stones, allergies, diabetes, epilepsy and heart murmurs.
