Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is a small, long-coated breed from Tibet, bred over centuries as an indoor sentinel in monasteries and palaces.

History

It was kept by Tibetan monks and nobles as a watchful companion that would sound the alarm at anything amiss, its heavy coat suited to the thin, cold air of the high plateau. It was long considered a bringer of good fortune and given as a prized gift rather than sold.

Temperament

The breed is known for being confident, alert and independent — affectionate with its own people but naturally aloof and watchful with strangers, a legacy of its guarding past. It is hardy and self-assured for its size.

Care and training

Exercise needs are modest, but the long, heavy coat is a real commitment — frequent brushing or a shorter clip — and the independent streak asks for patient, consistent training. The ears and eyes need routine care.

Health

Known tendencies include an inherited kidney condition, eye problems such as dry eye and progressive retinal atrophy, and patellar luxation. These are patterns for the breed rather than a verdict on one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.