Lhasa Apso
Small Tibetan guardian with a long coat, proud, clever and a touch independent. Size Small, life expectancy 12–15 years, energy Moderate. Expect CHF 1'500 – 2'600 to buy and CHF 80–140 / month upkeep.
See available Lhasa Apso
The profile at a glance
- Proud and clever little guardian
- Independent
- Elegant
- Demanding grooming
- A touch stubborn
- Reserved with strangers
Temperament
Small Tibetan guardian with a long coat, proud, clever and a touch independent.
Daily needs
Demanding grooming, moderate exercise.
Health & care
Eyes, kidneys, patella. Robust.
Ideal for
Families, city-dwellers, apartment.
Origin & history
The Lhasa Apso is a small dog originating from Tibet, where it was bred for centuries in monasteries and palaces, notably around the holy city of Lhasa. Considered a good-luck charm, it played the role of an indoor sentinel dog, alerting the monks with its barking. Its long dense coat protected it from the harsh climate of the Himalayas. Sometimes given as a precious gift, it was introduced to the West in the 20th century. Proud, watchful and independent, the Lhasa Apso is an endearing companion with a strong personality, that retains its alert instinct despite its small size.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Lhasa Apso bark a lot?
Historically an alert dog of the monasteries, it tends to be watchful and signal noises. Consistent training helps channel this behavior.
Is grooming its coat demanding?
Yes, its long dense coat requires regular brushing to avoid knots. Many owners opt for a shorter cut to simplify maintenance.
Is the Lhasa Apso independent?
Yes, it is a proud dog with a strong character, sometimes a little stubborn. It is affectionate with its family while keeping a certain reserve.
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