Lhasa Apso | bearded lion dog

"All About The Lhasa Apso Dog"

"The Lhasa Apso is a Tibetan dog
once used as sentinels by royalty in Tibet."

Alternate Names Appearance Behavior Breed Type Care and Grooming Health Country of Origin More Photos

Alternate Names

Apso Seng Kyi (bearded lion dog)
Bark Lion Sentinel Dog
Lhassa
Lhassa Terrier

Apso means "longhaired dog"

Appearance:

Body: Longer than it is tall, well-balanced, compact, well-sprung ribs, powerful loins, level back.

Coat: Straight, hard, and dense with a soft undercoat.

Color: All variations of colors.

Ears: Well-feathered, often with dark tips, and hang down along the cheeks.

Eyes: Medium size, oval-shaped, and dark brown; not bulging or sunken.

Feet: Round and cat-like, thick, firm pads, well-feathered.

Head: Moderately narrow skull, medium stop, straight muzzle, prominent, black nose, and abundant coverage of hair falling forward over the eyes.

Legs: Forelegs are straight and hairy. Hindquarters are strong with well-developed thighs.

Neck: Strong and well-arched.

Size:
Weight: 13 - 15 pounds
Height: 9 - 11 inches

Tail: Carried upward over the back, usually kinked and well-feathered.

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Behavior

Recommended for experienced dog handlers
Can be difficult to housetrain
Not good with other animals

The Lhasa Apso is alert, highly intelligent, comical, and outgoing. He is a lot of dog in a small body and is one of the most independently-minded of all small dog breeds. He has a tendency to ignore obedience when it inconveniences him, and he will give careful thought to whatever you ask him to do.

AKC Standards say, "Not a breed given to being yappy or nervous, the Lhasa Apso is extremely intelligent, often exhibiting a regal attitude, which can be quickly dispelled by a clownish sense of humor and a joy of life. An independent nature ensures that Lhasas seldom need to be entertained."

Because of his stubborn, strong-willed temperament, early training and continued socialization are a must. He is best suited for an experienced dog handler who is patient, capable of allowing him his independence, and leading him with a firm hand, while gaining his respect. He won't appreciate or respond to harsh-like methods of training. Use a positive approach with lots of praise and rewarding treats.

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Breed Type

AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group

Used by royalty as sentinels.

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Care and Grooming

Exercise: Moderate daily exercise.

Grooming: Brush three to four times weekly. Keep his ear canals clean and dry. Keep his eyes clean by wiping them with a warm damp cloth or cotton swab. Limit bathing to three to four times yearly.