Breeds
Lhasa Apso: Temperament, Size, Lifespan & Care
A Lhasa Apso is a small, confident, devoted dog with a watchful streak and a long, flowing coat. Lhasas are affectionate with their families, adaptable to apartment life and alert to every visitor, but they are independent thinkers that train on their own terms, and a full coat needs serious upkeep. Many owners choose a short puppy cut. Here is what to expect on size, lifespan, health, grooming and training.
By Matt GarnettUpdated November 14, 20264 min read2 sources
Lhasa Apso temperament and personality
The AKC rates the Lhasa Apso five out of five for affection with family, adaptability and as a watchdog, and three out of five for openness to strangers. Lhasas are small but hardy dogs of aristocratic bearing, and many are reserved with visitors until they decide they are welcome.
The AKC describes them as highly intelligent, sometimes compared to a willful toddler: they will please you if it pleases them to. Expect a loyal, entertaining companion that keeps a close watch on its home.
How big do Lhasa Apsos get?
The AKC lists male Lhasa Apsos at 10 to 11 inches tall, with females slightly smaller, and a weight of 12 to 18 pounds. They are sturdy little dogs with a feathery tail curled over the back in the manner of Tibetan breeds.
Their famous floor-length coat, parted down the middle, can hide a dog's real shape, so check the body condition with your hands. A Lhasa should feel solid and muscular, not soft.
Lhasa Apso lifespan and common health issues
The AKC gives a Lhasa Apso lifespan of 12 to 15 years and calls the breed generally robust and healthy. It names hereditary kidney dysfunction, which can range from mild to severe, as the most serious health problem in the breed, and notes there is no reliable test to detect carriers.
Because of that, the AKC advises seeking experienced, conscientious breeders who know the condition and remove affected dogs from their programs. VCA says the earliest signs of chronic kidney disease are drinking and urinating more. Ask breeders about kidney problems in their lines, and see your vet if your Lhasa starts drinking noticeably more.
Exercise needs
The AKC says the Lhasa is generally not a couch potato and is good at exercising itself: racing around an apartment, entertaining itself in a fenced yard or taking its owner on a brisk walk. Mental stimulation matters as much as physical exercise.
According to the AKC, Lhasas excel at agility, can do scent work and have been known to retrieve and herd. A daily walk plus games and puzzle feeders suits most adults well.
Lhasa Apso grooming and shedding
The AKC says both long hair and a puppy cut need regular maintenance. A long coat needs regular brushing with the right grooming tools and a bath at least every two weeks, while a dog in a clip still needs brushing and baths between groomer visits.
Shedding is one out of five on the AKC scale. That can appeal to allergy sufferers, but no dog breed is allergen-free. Keep hair out of the eyes, trim nails, check the ears and brush the teeth regularly.
Training a Lhasa Apso
The AKC says Lhasas can learn just about anything a trainer makes interesting enough, on their own terms. They do not appreciate repetitive drills and can become uncommonly stubborn if bullied or badgered, so harsh methods backfire. Short daily sessions of five to ten minutes, ended while the dog is still keen, usually work better than one long session.
Keep sessions short, varied and reward-based, and stay patient. Early socialization with people, places and other dogs helps a naturally watchful dog stay calm with visitors. Handling practice makes grooming much easier.
Are Lhasa Apsos good with kids and other pets?
The AKC rates the Lhasa three out of five with young children. Many do best with calm, respectful older children who do not grab or tease, since a Lhasa may not tolerate rough handling.
With other dogs the AKC rating is also three out of five. Introductions should be calm and gradual, with plenty of space and treats for good behavior, and many Lhasas live happily with a household dog or cat they know well. Supervise early meetings and give the Lhasa a quiet place to retreat.
What a Lhasa Apso needs at home
Useful kit includes a pin brush, a slicker brush and a metal comb, gentle shampoo and conditioner, hair ties for the topknot, nail clippers, a dog toothbrush, a small-dog harness and leash, a cozy bed and puzzle toys.
Book a vet visit soon after bringing your Lhasa home and ask about kidney screening bloodwork, eye care and a grooming routine.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.
Common questions
How long do Lhasa Apsos live?
The AKC lists a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. A healthy weight, regular grooming and vet checks, and watching for increased thirst, a possible sign of kidney trouble, help a Lhasa live a long life.
How big does a Lhasa Apso get?
The AKC lists males at 10 to 11 inches, with females slightly smaller, and a weight of 12 to 18 pounds. Lhasas are small but sturdy, hardy dogs.
What is a Lhasa Apso's temperament like?
Confident, loyal, watchful and independent. Lhasas are affectionate with family but often reserved with strangers, and they train best when lessons feel worthwhile to them.
Do Lhasa Apsos shed?
Very little; the AKC rates shedding one out of five. The long coat still needs regular brushing and frequent baths, or a shorter puppy cut that is easier to maintain.
Sources we checked
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or injured, contact your veterinarian.
