LHASA APSO

You may live in a city apartment, but look back fondly on memories of your childhood dog. You would love to get a dog, but the idea of getting a small breed appropriate for an apartment just isn’t appealing. If that’s the case, you may want to consider a small breed dog that doesn’t act like one, the Lhasa Apso.

Bred as guard dogs to noblemen and monks because of their excellent hearing, the Lhasa Apso is originally from Tibet.The Lhasa Apso was so prized, the dog could not be purchased or adopted, and it was given out only as gifts from the Tibetan ruler. They were very important to their masters as they could hear strangers and intruders coming and would alert their human if they felt the presence was threatening.

These small dogs have long, silky coats that hang to the bottom of their paws. Their fur color can range from slate gray to white to brown or an amber color and often changes in color from puppy to adult. Lhasa Apsos have plumed tails and curls on their backs. They have deeply set eyes that are often covered by the fur from their head and their muzzles are of medium length.Male Lhasa Apsos will grow to weigh thirteen to fifteen pounds and will stand ten to eleven inches high. Female Lhasa Apsos are usually only slightly smaller than their male counterparts.Lhasa Apsos are affectionate, assertive, highly intelligent, devoted and active. They are loyal to their loved ones but are weary of strangers. Families with small children may reconsider adopting a Lhasa Apso, as they do not like to be handled improperly. If you have small children and do want a Lhasa Apso, be sure to teach your children before adopting a puppy to respect the family dog and to not mistreat it. Another key to stopping a problem before it starts is to be sure to socialize your Lhasa Apso very early on. This is key with this breed as they do tend to have problems with strangers, other pets and children.

It can be difficult to train Lhasa Apsos, as they are a hard headed breed. Do not give up on training your animal though and remember that Lhasa Apsos love treats, so it may be best to go the motivational training route.Lhasa Apsos tend to have a long lifespan ranging anywhere from twelve to eighteen years old. They do have some breed specific ailments that they may suffer from including kidney problems, vision problems, hip dysplasia and occasionally ulcers. Additionally, Lhasa Apsos require regular coat brushing to prevent infestations of common parasites.

Lhasa Apsos are a great companion for someone looking for a smart and affectionate dog. They are sweet little mops that are a great option for unique small breeds.

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