The Lhasa Apso Dog Characteristics

Picture taken from www.dogbreedinfo.com

Picture taken from www.dogbreedinfo.com

Hello and welcome!

This is Sharda with another Lhasa Apso Dogs newsletter!

Today we will briefly discuss Lhasa Apso Dog Characteristics that are interesting & fun to know!

People who have owned or worked with Lhasa Apsos report that they have a very gentle temperament and are almost distinguished in their demeanour.

They are not an overly affectionate breed, rather are more respectful of their owners and enjoy just being in the same room or area with their families.

The Lhasa Apso enjoys being petted and groomed and prefers to be in the company of humans.

They tend to bond strongly with one individual but do like to be with lots of people once they are familiar with them.

Occasionally the Lhasa Apso is seen to be an aloof breed, but this is largely due to their protective nature.

They will stay aware and attentive in strange situations to protect their owners.

These qualities combine to make a Lhasa Apso a great companion dog for a single person or a family. The Lhasa Apso is less likely to be a rough and tumble dog, and does not usually engage in play like some of the other breeds.

They don’t need to be pampered and have a generally sound temperament.

EXERCISE
For older people or others who are not able to provide huge areas for exercise or are not interested in taking long daily walks a Lhasa Apso is a wonderful choice of dog.

They require very little exercise and will basically get all the activity they need just walking around a small house or apartment. They generally do not require any time outside other than morning and evening sessions and will self-exercise.

LHASA APSO TRAINING
The Lhasa Apso dogs tends to be a breed that responds very well to positive rewards and praise. They love to make their owners proud and happy, and do not respond well to punishment and harsh words or tone of voice.

They tend to be independent and it is important for trainers to be consistent with the dogs. Once they are trained they follow directions very well and love to please.

SIZE
The breed is a medium small size, with males reaching up to 11 inches at the shoulder and females up to 10 inches. The small size makes these dogs exceptional for individuals in apartments and small houses.

They are also watchdogs, which is an asset that many of the other small breeds of dogs do not have.

HEALTH AND LIFESPAN
A Lhasa Apso purchased from a reputable breeder will have a lifespan of 12-14 years. They have few health issues if properly fed and cared for.

Regular veterinarian checkups are required, as with every breed, but largely there are no other concerns besides vaccinations.

Occasionally there are concerns with luxating patella, a condition that causes loose knee joints, but a vet can identify this when the puppy is first examined. There are treatments for this condition and it does not need to be debilitating.

A Lhasa Apso is a good companion dog for a single person or a family. They tend to be tolerant of other animals and pets when properly introduced, and are loyal protectors of the family.

Their reserved temperament makes them a more independent breed that does not require or demand constant attention. They are wary of strangers but will quickly come to recognize family friends and frequent visitors.

Their distinctive coats and beautiful appearance are a source of pleasure for their owners, and with a bit of effort the long coats can be easily maintained. If this is not a possibility, Lhasa Apso dogs can be clipped and groomed to a shorter coat that will be easier to keep.

Either way, this breed is ideal for a person or family that would like a small size dog that is loyal and requires little from its owners but love and respect.

I hope that you learned a lot from today’s Lhasa Apso Dogs newsletter.

All the best and take care!

Warmly,
Sharda Baker