Lhasa Apso

I'm Adoptable!

Side Note: Why not consider Adoption First? With the popularity of small dogs increasing, so too has the number of breeders... and the population of unwanted dogs is ever increasing. There is a great Lhasa Apso near you in need of rescue. Your future dog could be waiting.

A 15 YEAR + COMMITMENT- Lhasas are long lived dogs. Buying or adopting a dog is a commitment to take care of him for his entire lifetime. If you're planning a move or a career or lifestyle change or if you're unsure of your financial ability to feed, vet, groom, house or properly care for another living creature, be honest with yourself and take the decision seriously.

Excitability and Behavioral Issues- As the demand for this breed increases, so too does the number in need of rescue. This is because puppy mills are producing as many litters as possible with no regard for health or temperament of the breeding stock (and most often these dogs suffer unimaginably). The resulting puppies from these mass breeding operations are more likely to have poor dispositions and undesirable behavioral issues.

Housebreaking difficulties- Small breed dogs are among the hardest dogs to housebreak. You'll need to be very patient and probably clean up several messes in the process of housebreaking this breed. We highly recommend the positive training techniques outlined on our dog training page.

It's true that this breed is strong willed and can be tough to train, but almost any owner will tell you that their dog was well worth it. If you're interested in a Lhasa, but the responsibility of training a puppy seems overwhelming, why not consider adoption. Click here to learn all the reasons why adopting an adult dog is the smartest choice.

Separation anxiety is common- A vast majority of dogs of all breeds suffer anxiety when left alone, Lhasas are no exception. Separation anxiety could result in destructive chewing, loud continuous barking or "accidents" on your carpet or furniture. Crating a dog for long hours every day is not a solution. Check out our page on separation anxiety to learn more.

Maintenance Needs-If you're not prepared for or if you're unable to pay for regular professional grooming, a Lhasa apso is not the breed for you. Their coats are very high maintenance and require frequent brushing, clipping, trimming, etc. to keep from becoming matted. Regular attention should also be given to nails, teeth, ears and pads.

Caution around children- These dogs are not well known for their fondness of children. Constant supervision with this breed is necessary. One little nip is all it takes to injure a child, not to mention the risk inolved to the dog if he should happen to bite or if the child should injure him.

Still unsure if a Lhasa Apso is the right dog for you? If you're looking to share your home with a dog and you've got a soft spot in your heart for an animal in need, check into volunteering at a rescue... or better yet, become a foster parent for a Lhasa Apso in need of a temporary home. There are countless dogs in immediate need of someone like you who cares. Do a google or yahoo search for a rescue group near you.

Skin Problems- Most of the skin problem in this breed are brought on by parasites and allergies. Fleas and ticks are a nuisance to all mammals, but to a Lhasa they can be especially troublesome.

Kidney Disease Renal Dysplasia is the most serious hereditary disease among Lhasa Apsos. Excessive thirst and frequent urination are the most obvious symptoms to be aware of.

Hip Dysplasia is a developmental subluxation of the hip joints which can eventually lead to arthritis and/or lameness. It's causes are genetic as well as environmental. A secondary concern of this affliction is osteoarthritis.

The use of pet steps has been shown to significantly reduce the wear and tear on joints.

Dry eye- Another concern for Lhasas and their owners are eye problems. Dry eye is a lack of or inadequate tear production. The eyes of Lhasa pups should be scrutinized carefully before a decision is made for purchase.