The Lhasa Apso is a playful and people-friendly dog, but it has an independent nature. It needs good socialization and education so that it does not assert its occasional stubbornness. The intelligent animals are very robust and enduring for their size and are well suited as companion and family dogs. The little Tibetans are initially suspicious of strangers and even make good guard dogs.

ProfileLhasa Apso

From Tibetan lion dog to companion and family dog

The Lhasa Apso is an ancient Tibetan breed. As early as 2000 years ago, these dogs lived in the monasteries of the Tibetan highlands and in northern India. They were also called lion dogs and were revered as lucky charms. For the farmers, the clever animals proved to be helpful and useful: they herded the herds, guarded the house and kept it free of vermin. As popular gifts from the princes, some of the proud Tibetans came to the Chinese imperial court.

Around 1901, the Lhasa Apsos came to Great Britain. Here they were formed into pedigree dogs and in 1934 the first standard for the small companion dogs was created. The breed was recognized by the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) in 1960

The character of the Lhasa Apso

They are friendly and bright dogs of high intelligence – they are by no means suitable as pure lap dogs. The robust Lhasa Apsos need a lot of exercise and are also quite active in other ways. Thanks to their high level of attention, they make excellent guard dogs, even if you don’t necessarily see it.

Lhasa Apsos attach themselves to a caregiver from whom they expect loving and sovereign treatment. Well socialized and educated, they prove to be loyal companions and family dogs, but they always carry a spark of independence within them.

Education and Attitude of the Lhasa Apso

Due to their breed-related independence, Lhasa Apsos should be socialized and educated accordingly from puppyhood. Attendance at puppy lessons and dog school are highly recommended. A loving but consistent upbringing is important, which is difficult for some owners because of the charming nature of the Lhasa Apso. But the self-confident Tibetan quickly takes advantage of negligence in education and can then become presumptuous.

The lively dog can also live in a city apartment, but then needs long walks and activity in the form of extensive play units. Many Lhasa Apsos also like to go to dog sports – but don’t overdo it to protect the joints of the small dog.

Care of the Lhasa Apso

You should brush the long, hard top coat with the dense undercoat underneath thoroughly, at least twice a week. It’s best to keep the coat short so that it can move freely and always has a good view.

Special features of Lhasa Apso

Due to the breed, the little four-legged friends are susceptible to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation (a disease of the kneecap) and eye diseases. If you want to buy a Lhasa Apso, contact a responsible breeder who belongs to the VDH (Association for the German Canine Society). Reputable breeders are working harder to avoid breed-related diseases.

Meet these great, lesser-known family dogs:

• Chinook: The Chinook is a special dog: Every day he wants to discover the world outside – but also enjoys pleasant breaks with his family on the sofa.
• Puggle: The Puggle is one of the “designer dogs” and is a mixture of pug and beagle. The handy puggles are very popular as family dogs and are lovable companions for people of all generations.
• Kokoni: The kokoni comes from Greece and was already a popular house dog there in ancient times. With its friendly, bright and playful nature, it conquers the hearts of its owners. Cocoons are rather small, but their energy level is all the higher.
• Elo: The Elo is considered a relaxed and friendly family dog. Its appearance is very diverse due to the crossbreeding of different dog breeds. Ideally, it has no hunting instinct and is therefore a relaxed partner on walks.
• Kromfohrlaender: The rather lesser-known Kromfohrlaender has a wonderful nature, is fond of children, easy to train and has only a low hunting instinct. The “Kromi” is an ideal family dog, also ideal for first-time dog owners.
• Pug: “A life without a pug is possible. But pointless,” said Loriot. With good reason: The pug is a lively charmer and loyal companion, yet loving and affectionate. You can’t resist his crumpled face and his big eyes.