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Non-sporting breeds: Lhasa Apso
Origin
The Lhasa Apso (pronounced la-sa ap-so) originates from Tibet where it has been bred since 800 B.C. as an indoor guard dog. The Lhasa was once the exclusive property of holy men and nobles. It was also used as a lookout in the temples and monasteries, announcing strangers or intruders with a keen bark. Lhasa was the capital of Tibet, and "apso" is thought to come from a term originally meaning "barking-lion sentinel dog." After death, the soul of a human master was presumed to enter the dog's body. This is why the Lhasas were believed to be sacred. These dogs, considered to be vessels of good luck, were never bought and sold but were given freely as gifts or tokens of appreciation. It is in this manner that the breed slowly found its way around the world; in fact the first Lhasas to appear in the United States were gifts presented by the Dalai Lama to American friends.
Unfortunately, because of the current war-torn conditions in Tibet, there are thought to be fewer than 30 Lhasas left there.
General description
Height: 9.5-11 inches
Weight: 13-15 pounds
Color: White, black, reddish brown, cream, gray, parti-color
Grooming requirements
The coat is long, straight, absorbent, shedding, and potentially malodorous. Frequent brushing, bathing, eye cleaning, ear cleaning, and nail trimming are required. You will need a slicker brush and a metal comb to properly brush this dog in its full coat. This should be done daily, and every time the coat becomes wet. If you are not showing your dog, you may chose to have them clipped in a shorter cut so the upkeep is less. Even if your Lhasa is in a short clip, you will need to have them groomed every 4-8 weeks to maintain their coat at the length you can handle. The eyes of Lhasa Apso are prone to tearing and as a result need to be cleaned daily and dried very well afterwards. When the area is cleaned and kept sufficiently dry, the staining will be minimal.
Health considerations
Susceptible to respiratory problems, wheezes and snores, injuries to eyes.
Breed characteristics and personality
It is a joyous, lively, intelligent, and assertive little dog that is easily trained and responsive to kindness. Its keen eye, quick hearing, and fine instinct for recognizing the difference between friend and foe make it an ideal watch dog.
Uses
The Lhasa's primary function was that of a police watchdog. His keen intelligence and acute hearing and instincts for identifying friends from strangers made him uniquely suited for the role of a watchdog. Today, he makes an ideal companion and a wonderful apartment dweller.
Web links
AKC Lhasa Apso page
American Lhasa Apso Club
Lhasa Apso Reporter
Central Maryland Lhasa Apso Fanciers
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