Male Lhasa Apsos should ideally be 10.75 inches at the withers and weigh about 14-18 pounds, 6–8 kg. The females are slightly smaller, and weigh between 12-14 pounds, 5–7 kg.
Having been bred as an indoor monastery sentinel dog by Tibetan Buddhist monks, Lhasa Apsos are alert with a keen sense of hearing with a rich, sonorous bark that belies their size (some are known as "singers"). They can also move quite silently, allowing them to sneak up on intruders, as well as unsuspecting family members. The ideal Lhasa temperament is to be wary of strangers while being loyal to those closest to them. They rank 68th in Stanley Coren's The Intelligence of Dogs, being of fair working/obedience intelligence. Lhasa Apsos are independent as well as companion dogs who want to please their owners. Unique personality characteristics of Lhasa Apsos have gained them a reputation as being a very emotive breed that in some cases prove themselves to be completely fearless. They enjoy climbing hills and furniture, as well as burrowing into caves. They often occupy baskets, crawl into bottom shelves of bookcases and are known to build a nest for themselves before settling down for a nap with their owners as this burrowing is an inherent trait of their nature. A Lhasa Apso typically will express their happiness by rolling, rubbing their head and rolling on their owner's feet or burrowing their heads into a blanket. They also will try to bury their food with a sweeping head motion, placing a napkin under their dish allows them to bury their food.
A Lhasa Apso responds to exercise and discipline with a calm assertive energy. These dogs require socialization with dogs and other people early as puppies and throughout their lives. They require patience but in return can be quite comical, entertaining and caring companions. They aim to please their owners and enjoy training. Owners must be able to be pack leaders or this breed can suffer from separation anxiety - the leader may leave but the followers are fine with being left for a reasonable amount of time. While their personality belies their size, they need a home that is mindful that there is a small quiet dog in the house to prevent injury. They enjoy vantage points in the house where they can view all that is going on.
The Lhasa Apso is a loyal dog, who while not be a traditional lapdog, is a steadfast comical, gay, assertive, adventurous little companion dog whose only desire is to be with and protect their owners.
If properly trained early as soon as they are a puppy, the Lhasa Apso will come appreciate bathing, hair combing and clipping, but they generally do not enjoy bathing or swimming as this is not part of their breed traits.
The Lhasa Apso is a long-lived breed, with some living in good health into their early 20s. There are few health problems specific to the breed. Their vision may deteriorate with age but they are not sight-oriented dogs and they endure blindness with few noticeable changes in behavior. They should have some protective hair over their eyes, they have strong eyelashes that push this protective hair out of the way so they can see. Likewise, a Lhasa Apso should not be shaved as its hair insulates and protects its eyes and skin from the elements, such as the sun and acts to theromdynamically regulate their temperature.
Typically, the Lhasa Apso has few major health concerns, making this dog a great choice. Keep in mind that due to the long coat, it is imperative this breed be brushed regularly to avoid matting, which can create skin problems. Additionally, you want to keep the coat free from parasites such as ticks and/or fleas, which can also cause skin irritation.
You will also find that the Lhasa Apso can develop hip dysplasia. Although usually associated with larger breeds, hip dysplasia is a condition in which the hip is affected, causing pain, swelling, and ultimately lameness. When buying a Lhasa Apso, you should choose from a breeder that certifies against this and other genetic disorders. If you find your dog limping, then have him checked immediately for hip dysplasia. Sometimes, medical treatment can stop further damage although in severe cases, surgery is required.
The Lhasa Apso can also suffer from kidney problems although this is rare. Expert breeders are still unsure if the kidney problems are inherent but usually, quality breeding is the best way to avoid this problem as well. Unfortunately, kidney problems in a Lhasa Apso six months or younger can kill. The earliest warning sign is having a puppy that drinks a tremendous amount of water. If you find this to be the case, you should have your puppy checked by a reputable veterinarian right away.
When cared for properly, the Lhasa Apso will live to 15 years or more. During the first four years of life when the breed is still considered a puppy, you should experience no health problems whatsoever. Again, watch for signs of kidney problems to include excessive thirst and perhaps problems with potty training or urinating outside.
Finally, the Lhasa Apso may also develop problems with the eyes, specifically blocked tear ducts. In this case, minor surgery can be performed whereby the ducts are opened, allowing the eye to drain properly. Remember, if you want to add a Lhasa Apso to your family, the best way to avoid any type of health problem, whether small or large, is by working with a respectful breeder, one that will breed to remove the possibility of hereditary illness.
