Also known as the Lhasa Terrier or simply the Lhasa, the Lhasa Apso is an active and happy breed. But how do you know whether you are ready to purchase a pet and if this breed is right for you? This information is absolutely necessary in making the decision to purchase a pet.
History
The origin of the Lhasa Apso can be traced back to 18th century Tibet. Enthusiasts believe the breed among the oldest of the native Tibet breeds, though this has never been proven scientifically or otherwise.
Throughout its history, the Lhasa Apso has been most commonly used for guarding the inside of dwelling and properties, proving its superior ability to alert and protect its owners.
Credited for introducing the breed to the United States in an enthusiast, breeder, and world traveler named Suydam Cutting. Thanks to Cutting’s years or devotion and hard work, the Lhaso Apso was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1935.
Today, while the Lhasa Apso has attained an underground popularity as an impressive companion dog, the breed remains rather rare in various areas of the world.
Personality Traits
Best known for its happy and outgoing nature, the Lhasa Apso thrives on strong and dependable relationships with humans. This small breed can be somewhat independent, stubborn, and overly confident at times, creating difficulty in training. As a pet, the Lhasa Apso is loyal, protective, loving, and affectionate. This breed adapts well to indoor living, yet is very energetic and enjoys time spent outdoors and playing games such as fetch.
Train-ability
Due to its somewhat stubborn and confident nature, the Lhasa Apso can prove somewhat challenging to train.
Establishing immediate dominance, trust, and respect is key to successfully training the Lhasa Apso. This breed requires a strong, experienced, and patient handler with a gentle yet stern approach.
Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed
There are many benefits to owning a Lhasa Apso. These active dogs are often quite entertaining to watch while at play. This breed is known to adapt well to indoor and apartment living, and enjoys long car rides. The Lhasa Apso is very alert and protective of its owner and property, making an excellent watch dog, announcing the arrival of guests and unwanted visitors. The Lhasa Apso is loyal, loving, and affectionate, making an amazing family pet and companion alike.
Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to owning a Lhasa Apso. While the breed adapts well to indoor living, they do require large amounts of daily exercise and room to run and play. Anyone wishing to purchase this breed lacking the adequate amount of time and space to dedicate to the dog is strongly advised against doing so. A Lhasa Apso not receiving the proper amount of time and space will often act out by destroying property, chewing, barking, and whining.
The Lhasa Apso does not typically get along well with children or other pets. It is not recommended to introduce this breed to a household in which other pets or children live, as it may become overly aggressive and territorial.
Like many companion breeds, the Lhasa Apso is known to suffer from separation anxiety. Individuals wishing to purchase this breed who travel frequently, have full time work, or are away from the home on a daily basis are advised to begin researching another breed. During an attack of separation anxiety, the Lhasa Apso will act out of nervous destruction and may destroy property, chew, bark, whine, and ignore housebreaking training.
This breed’s long and luxurious coat requires almost constant attention, brushing, and grooming to maintain its attractive appearance and prevent knotting and tangling.
As previously mentioned, the Lhasa Apso remains rather rare in certain areas of the world and can prove difficult to obtain. Individuals seeking to purchase this breed often encounter such challenges as inability to locate a breeder, high prices, and being placed on long waiting lists.
Common Health Concerns
While the Lhasa Apso is typically known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems, including: hip dysplasia, likeliness to develop various cancers and tumors, and bloat.
Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own a Lhasa Apso? Remember, purchasing a pet is a big decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with your entire family.
Sources:
http://www.akc.org/breeds/lhasa_apso
http://www.trainpetdog.com/lhasa-apso
