Lhasa Apso
Sacred Tibetan watchdog. Long-coated, alert, affectionate with family.
Photo: Alexas Fotos / Pexels
The Lhasa Apso was bred over 1,000 years ago in Tibetan monasteries as an indoor sentinel — alerting monks to intruders. They were considered sacred and never sold; the Dalai Lama gifted Lhasas to honoured visitors. Today's Lhasa is a long-coated, alert little watchdog with deep family loyalty.
Temperament
Alert, watchful, affectionate with family, suspicious of strangers. Lhasas are independent and can be stubborn.
Exercise needs
30–45 minutes of daily walking plus indoor play.
Grooming
Floor-length coat needs daily brushing if kept long; most owners get a "puppy clip" every 4–6 weeks. Eyes need daily wiping.
Common health issues
Cherry eye. Patellar luxation. Hip dysplasia. Renal dysplasia. Brachycephalic features (mild).
👍 Best for
Apartment dwellers, retirees, families with older children.
👎 Not best for
Owners who can't commit to grooming or want a sociable greeter.
Buying guides for Lhasa Apso owners
Buying guides for Lhasa Apso owners
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