As its name implies, the Lhasa Apso as a breed originated in Tibet. There he traditionally had the honor of watching over monasteries and palaces.
Today’s Lhasa Apso has a royal feel to it with its full silky skirt that, when well groomed, barely skims the ground. It is the perfect size for a house pet and a companion. But don’t be fooled by its small stature. This little guy can stand on his own! He is by nature a guardian, a watchdog and protector of his home and family. It’s what his ancestors have done for years!
socialize and train
The Lhaso is a very protective breed, which can work for you or against you, depending on how much you are willing to put into their training. It is vital that your Lhasa is socialized from the start and that you are consistent with his training. If so, it will make an excellent companion and guardian.
Training requires a lot of patience as the Lhasa tends to have its own ideas. But it can be well trained if the trainer or owner is persistent. It takes a firm hand and positive reinforcement and praise when he does well.
Caring for the Lhasa’s coat
In most cases, your Lhasa needs little more than a daily brushing to keep its sleek coat free of tangles. But you must be consistent; it can get away from you very quickly. Every few weeks, a bath and blow-dry can be added to his grooming routine to keep his coat shiny, clean, and smelling great. Many Lhasa owners choose to give their pet a shorter puppy cut. This is a good option if it’s not going to be worn for a show, or for people who have busy schedules that just can’t accommodate much grooming.
A Lhasa is generally not recommended for a household with young children. The Lhasa tends to bite when angry, and young children can be very curious and overly attentive when there is a new dog in the home. Older children usually have little trouble and in fact have been known to form a strong bond with their dog.
Another advantage with a Lhaso is that they enjoy a longer than average lifespan, usually 12-15 years. They are not prone to disease or overly finicky as some of the toy-sized breeds can be. As a result, in addition to a long life, you can add strength to your list of good qualities. Beyond his annual checkups and vaccinations, your Lhasa will generally not cost you much in veterinary fees.
If you think the Lhasa Apso is a good fit for your family, do some research before you buy. Find a reputable breeder who breeds for health and temperament so you can be sure you have a healthy dog who will be able to share your life for years to come.