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The Lhasa Apso is a small dog, averaging approximately
10 to 11 inches at the shoulder(withers). They weigh anywhere from
12 to 18 pounds. The coat colors that a Lhasa may possess are black,
golden, white, dark grizzle, brown and bi-color. The Lhasas have long,
dense hair (this hair is neither silky nor woolly) that requires grooming
on a regular basis. These dogs do shed their undercoat twice a year, but
the rest of the time shedding is minimal if the dog receives good grooming
care. Caring for a "show" Lhasa is indeed a full time job, however, if
you own a "pet" Lhasa keeping your dog in a puppy or teddy bear clip is
much more simple.
The Lhasa Apso is an indoor dog, it was bred to
be an early warning alarm. Mastiffs would guard the outside walls
of the Tibetan monastery, the Lhasas would guard the monks inside. The
Lhasa is not a "foo-foo" dog, they are sturdy, resilient and couregeous.
They are totally devoted to their family and wary of strangers. This
natural wariness must be monitored by the owner of the Lhasa to ensure
that it does not become aggressive as well. Control through gentle
training, and early and continual socialization are the means that should
be used to make sure that your Lhasa Apso does not become an uncontrollable,
ankle-biting, rug rat.
The Lhasa is in a class of its own when it comes
to showing devotion towards a loving, gentle and firm, but kind, master/mistress.
These dogs are tough, and independent. They would live life by their
own rules if allowed. Yet, they are extremely sensitive, some say
almost human, and a well trained Lhasa makes for a caring, loving friend
and companion.
The Lhasa Apso is a very intelligent dog, however,
routine training does not inspire its enthusiasm, it may even get stubborn
about being made to obey. It is bored very quickly, and it would
much rather do other things. An important note - if you attempt
to use force,and/or a lot of corrections, the Lhasa will become stubborn
and resistant, and will stay that way because you have taught it to be
stubborn and resistant.
This breed of dog tends to like older (over 8 years
of age) children, younger children tend to be too noisy, too reckless,
and too rough. The Lhasa could get assertive with the younger child,
basically telling the child enough is enough, leave well enough alone.
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