If you want a pet that looks small and cute and yet is smart and sturdy, then the Lhasa Apso is for you. The Lhasa may be small but don’t let her looks fool you. She is smart, intelligent, well mannered and friendly. Obedience training is usually easy and it will make the best watch dog despite its size. Here is more information about this smart, sturdy dog breed.
Characteristics
- This is a small breed dog with lot of muscle. Males stand 10 or 11 inches and females are slightly shorter. They usually weigh between 13-19 pounds.
- Lhasas can be seen in various colors like black, white, brown, dark brown, honey, sandy, smoke or dark grizzle and even parti colored. Their coat can be short or long. Lhasa apso puppies have different colored coats than that when they grow up.
- A well groomed Lhasa with long hair even resembles a lion and is compared that way in Tibetan mythology.
Where to find a Lhasa Apso
You can get a list of reputed Lhasa Apso breeders from the official Lhasa Apso website of America. It is definitely a good idea to consider adopting rescue puppies. Always get your pet from reputed breeders. Remember: it will be worth the wait if you want the best Lhasa. When purchasing your puppy, the most important consideration is towards its health. Never buy a puppy just because it is cute or cheap. Make sure the breeder gives guarantee for its proper breeding with all initial vaccinations, de-worming and proper health checks. Expect to pay anywhere between $1000 and $1200 for your Lhasa.
Temperament
- Lhasa Apso do not like being left alone; in the truest sense they are companion dogs.
- Depending on how you treat them, they will adapt to people and situations.
- Many factors will decide your Lhasa Apso Temperament including the food you feed them, their environment as well as their breeding.
- In general, the breed’s standard characteristics can be described as gay and cheerful.
- They are barkers- they are especially wary of strangers and might bark or take a reserved stance with them. Lhasa Apso can take time to become friendly with people but once they offer their friendship, they are very sincere.
- This is an alert, steady and reliable watchdog who is devoted to his family members.
- Not all Lhasas love being cuddled-each dog has a distinct personality.
Shedding and Grooming
Lhasa apsos need regular grooming to maintain their thick double coat. You can even take your pet to the professional groomer from time to time and try learning some tricks and tips from them. Lhasas with long hair need daily or at least bi-weekly brushing. Lhasa apso shedding is moderate- most dogs shed once a year though some tend to shed all year round. Feed your pet a high quality meal and talk to your vet about hair and coat supplements containing Omega 3 essential fatty acids to keep their coat shiny and healthy. Some owners like having their Lhasa’s coat trimmed short as it is easier to manage.
Exercise
This is a great dog for apartment dwellers as they love the indoors and your company. Make sure you take your Lhasa out at least once a day to walk and run about so that they can expend energy and remain mentally alert and fit. You can also invest in plenty of toys to entertain your pet at home. Many pet owners like to keep at least two Lhasas together so they can provide each other the company they love and deserve.
Food
The best food for your Lhasa is the one you prepare yourself so you can control the ingredients. Many commercial dog foods are filled with corn syrup and soybeans which do not provide any real nourishment and can even lead to allergies. Learn the best home cooked dog food recipes and speak to your vet about the right food for your Lhasa. Protein requirements of your Lhasa can change from time to time and your vet can recommend what to feed him accordingly.
Health issues
Lhasa Apsos are prone to skin diseases as well as external parasites like fleas and ticks. So use a good shampoo and comb your pet daily to remove these parasites. Thankfully you can avoid most health issues in your Lhasa with regular vet exams, daily exercise, good food, proper grooming and dental care.
