Breeds in the Utility Group of Dogs

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Lhasa Apso

A beautiful little dog - only 10" at most - the Lhasa Apso is a dog who needs considerable attention to his coat if he is to look his best. His background is very exotic; at one time known as the Tibetan Apso he is an ancient breed, a native of Tibet, he was originally kept in the Tibetan monasteries and would give warning if intruders managed to evade the Tibetan Mastiffs tethered outside. He was also kept by wealthy traders and was believed to be a bringer of good fortune and was never sold but always a gift.

The Lhasa Apso was first seen in Britain in the 1920s - though some say that Lhasas had been imported in the middle of the 19th century - and made their first appearance in the showring shortly after. They were recognised by The Kennel Club in 1933, the same year the first Breed Club was established.

Although quite small, the Lhasa Apso is, nonetheless a sturdy little dog, weighing up to 8.5kg, which is quite a lot packed into 10". His top coat is straight and hard and in golden colours, dark grizzle, slate, smoke, parti-colour, black, white or brown - all of which colours are equally acceptable. He is a happy dog, though can be quite bossy and stubborn with a natural distrust of strangers though to his friends he is very affectionate. Content as a housedog he is perfectly ready to take long walks with his family.

Not a dog who is indiscriminate in his affections, and one who needs a fair amount of coat care, if he suits your circumstances he is a very attractive and cheerful head-turner.

Click here to read the Lhasa Apso Breed Standard.

Selected Books

The time to make sure that the Lhasa is the right breed for you is before you bring him home. If you and your dog are going to be a good match speak to breeders, Breed Clubs, and generally find out as much as you can about the breed.

Understanding dog psychology, and what his motivations are will save a lot of confusion and misunderstandings for both you and him. Many mistakes can be avoided, and quick solutions reached if you have the basics of puppy training to guide you through all the early settling in difficulties. It helps, too, to have some idea of basic healthcare so you can make informed judgements about whether a visit to the vet is necessary or if there is a simple remedy. For example, many cases of upset tummies are best cured by 24 hour starvation. The books we have chosen will be able to guide you as to whether your dog can be treated at home, or a visit to the surgery is necessary.

Lhasa Apso Breed Clubs

Lhasa Apso Rescue

Contact a Breed Club. They should all be able to give you information about dogs requiring homes and procedures for re-homing; if you are in the unfortunate position of having to re-home your own Lhasa, please go through breed rescue. They will not be judgmental and are best able to find the right permanent home for your dog.

Lhasa Apso Breeders

If you are looking for a puppy contact the Breed Clubs and the Breeders listed and visit the puppyfinder website where there is a great deal of information on hereditary conditions. If you are a Breeder and wish to advertise your puppies puppyfinder is an excellent showcase.

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