Note: The breed registries indicated above are the most recognized all-breed registries. The breed may also be recognized by other registries not indicated here. For further details about dog registries, please see the document: Dog Breed Registries in North America.
* — The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) is the World Canine Organisation, which includes members (one member per country) that each issue their own pedigrees and train their own judges. The FCI recognizes 332 breeds, with each being the "property" of a specific country. The FCI is not a breed registry nor does it issue pedigrees.
Origin:
Tibet
CKC Group:
Non-Sporting Dogs
Height:
Males — Between 10 - 11 inches (25-28 cm), maximum 11 ½ inches (30 cm) Females — Slightly smaller
The Lhasa Apso was bred in Tibetan monasteries for over 2,000 years and was originally named the Abso Send Kye, "Bark Lion Sentinel Dog". Lhasas were never sold but given as gifts to dignitaries. While the Tibetan Mastiff was used to guard the outdoors, the Lhasa was the indoor guardian. His keen hearing and instinct for identifying friend from stranger make him an ideal watchdog.
The Lhasa Apso is a loyal and loving companion to those he knows. He has a unique temperament and is said to have a big dog personality. He can be rather independent and stubborn with a regal attitude. He views himself as big and important and expects to be treated as such. Patient understanding is a must and no harsh or strict discipline is advised for this breed.
The Lhasa coat is his crowning glory: long, heavy, straight and hard with an abundance of hair on the head and a plumed tail carried over the back.
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The Lhasa Apso is a very healthy and hardy breed, relatively free of health problems. Kidney disease is the most serious health problem found in the Lhasa. The average life expectancy is 12 to 18 years.
If you are considering the adoption of a Lhasa Apso puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
Health and Nutrition — Canada's Guide to Dogs growing section on several health and nutrition related issues.
AKC LHASA APSO VIDEO
17 Min. Video Edition Published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com
Almost daily grooming is an absolute necessity to keep the Lhasa Apso's beautiful coat free of mats. A bath is also suggested every 7 to 14 days. A small amount of conditioner and water used in a spray bottle can help make brushing easier between baths and also help to cut down on static. Care must also be taken to keep the ears clean and to trim the hair on the pads of the feet.
Grooming — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes tips, articles and information covering all aspects of dog grooming along with a listing of Groomers from across Canada.
SHOW OFF YOUR DOG: GROOMING BASICS VIDEO
60 Min. Video Edition Published by A.R.T. Productions
Suitable for 54 longhaired breeds, but especially good for parted-coat breeds. Will also show you to make grooming a pleasant and rewarding experience for you and your dog. Groomer is Ena Lane, breeder and handler, Shih Tzus.
— Available from Dogwise.com
PET GROOMING THE SMALL LONG COATED BREEDS VIDEO
70 Min. Video Edition Published by Sonnen Productions
This is one of the breed grooming videos from Sonnen productions under the guidance of Michael Kemp, a top handler and groomer.
— Available from Dogwise.com
Training — For information on training your Lhasa Apso, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
Made in Tibet — An extensive article on the origin and characteristics of the Lhasa Apso.
Fabriqué au Tibet — Un article sur l'origine et les charactéristiques du Lhasa Apso.
Clubs, Sports & Activities — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes information on several dog sports and activities as well as listings of non-breed specific clubs from across Canada. (For breed specific clubs, see the Breed Clubs section.)
Working Dogs — Dedicated to the working dog. This section includes tributes, information on various dog jobs, and listings of organizations from across Canada.
Select from the following links to view Lhasa Apso Breeder listings; Breed Clubs; Shows and Events; Rescue Organizations; as well as Books and Merchandise specific to the Lhasa breed:
