Thinking about getting an Lhasa Apso? can anyone tell me about them?

Answer 1

They are tiny, Paris Hilton-type, yip-yappy dogs that annoy everyone except girls (not women).

Answer 2

The Apso is an ancient breed, originating in Tibet. Originally bred as interior sentinels in the monasteries, they have keen hearing, a discerning nature, and are of high intelligence. Make no mistake, these are not lap dogs nor a breed that is eager to please. Coming from the high Tibetan plateaus of the Himalayan mountains, their physical characteristics were shaped by their environment ... the double coat for protection from the elements, the large paws for a study base while navigating the mountain trails, an oval shaped chest cavity for efficient oxygen exchange at altitudes of 12,000+ feet, a longer nose to warm the frigid air before it hits the lungs. This is a sturdy little mountain dog.

Training can be difficult as they find repetition boring -- getting one that is food motivated is a plus! Generally, they are not yappy dogs -- barking a warning and then quieting down. The breed standard states they are "chary" of strangers ... IOW, don't expect your Apso to run up and make friends with the world. They prefer to stand back, analyze the person/situation, and then approach on their own terms.

Because of the profuse double coat which will grow to the ground, their grooming requirements are considerable. One can keep them in a "puppy cut" if the long coat is not desired. Be prepared to spend $25-$45 on grooming every 6-8 weeks.

Apsos have low activity requirements and can get their daily exercise by playing around the house and yard (if available). Generally a healthy breed, one still needs to find a reputable breeder that can offer a health guarantee as poorly bred dogs can be afflicted with renal dysplasia, KCS, allergies (food & inhalant), cherry eye, subluxating patellas and umbilical hernias (inherited diseases).

A dominant breed, the Apso is not for "soft" or first-time dog owners. They need a fair and consistent owner, one willing to set boundaries. Typically, they do not do well with small children and don't think twice about issuing a "correction" to children who are behaving inappropriately. The majority of Apsos ending up in rescue are there because of "child issues."

They are "apsolutely" a unique breed with the depth of the ages reflected in their eyes ... old souls. If you want to see what an Apso *should* look like, go to an AKC dog show. You can find schedules of events on www.onofrio.com, infodog.com or AKC.org. You'll also find Apsos competing in agility, rally and obedience.

And last, but not least, contact a breed specific rescue to see that they might have available in your area ... LhasaApsoRescue.org is a good place to start.

Vickie Kuhlmann
WestCentral Coordinator
American Lhasa Apso Club - Rescue

Answer 3

Lhasas are great little dogs. They are sturdily built, and require moderate care. I have found them not to be suitable around very small children. Males are usually the bright,snuggly, "pet me" types and are eager to please whereas the females tend to be aloof and want to guard the palace. They do have some health problems, ear mites has been a biggie here, as well as sinus-type problems caused by their stubby snout.

Answer 4

just that they are beautiful and they will need to be well groomed a lot. ,and heard they are very smart dogs.

Answer 5

my potential sister in-law has 3 of them, they are INSANE. It could just be her dogs, but they are snippy, yappy, and completely wild.