Dog breed · Non-Sporting / Utility
Lhasa Apso
A small but sturdy Tibetan breed originally kept as an indoor watchdog in monasteries and homes. Lhasa Apsos are more independent-minded and less eager to please than many small breeds.
Small12–15 yearsTibetCan suit apartments
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Non-Sporting / Utility
- Origin
- Tibet
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 5–8 kg (12–18 lb)
- Height
- 25–28 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Long, heavy, straight double coat
- Temperament
- IndependentAlertConfidentWatchful
History
Bred for centuries in Tibetan monasteries and noble households as a household sentinel, alerting larger guard dogs to visitors.
Appearance
A small, long-backed dog with a floor-length straight coat, dark eyes and a confident carriage.
Exercise and activity
Modest — 30 minutes of walking and play daily suits most Lhasa Apsos well.
Care and grooming
The full-length show coat needs daily brushing; most pet owners keep a shorter, easier-to-manage clip instead.
Health considerations
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye)
- Patellar luxation
- Renal dysplasia
- Intervertebral disc disease