Lhasa Apso

• ExerciseLow

  Short strolls and play indoors keep them content.

• GroomingDaily grooming

  Daily brushing (and pro grooming) keeps the coat in shape.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment12–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Kidney disease · Progressive retinal atrophy · Cherry eye

The Lhasa Apso is an ancient Tibetan breed that served for a thousand years as an indoor monastery sentinel, and it still carries that job in its soul: alert, dignified, independent and comically serious about guarding, it is devoted to its own family but naturally reserved, even aloof, with strangers. It is confident and a little stubborn rather than eager to please, so it rewards patient, positive training and early socialisation. Its exercise needs are modest, making it a good apartment dog, but it is a watchdog at heart and will announce every arrival. The long, heavy, floor-length coat is high-maintenance, needing daily brushing to prevent matting; many owners keep it in a shorter clip, with regular cleaning around the eyes. Health-wise, buy from a breeder who screens, and be aware of the breed's tendencies: inherited kidney disease (renal dysplasia), eye conditions including progressive retinal atrophy, dry eye and cherry eye, and skin problems. As a small dog it also needs diligent dental care. Keep up grooming, eye and dental care, socialise it well, and this proud little sentinel will be a loyal, long-lived companion for twelve to fifteen years.

• How much exercise does a Lhasa Apso need?

  Low. Short strolls and play indoors keep them content.

• How much grooming does a Lhasa Apso need?

  Daily grooming. Daily brushing (and pro grooming) keeps the coat in shape.

• Is a Lhasa Apso suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Is a Lhasa Apso a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Lhasa Apso live?

  12–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Lhasa Apso?

  Keep an eye out for Kidney disease, Progressive retinal atrophy, Cherry eye. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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