What is the temperament of a Lhasa Apso?

Lhasa Apsos are known to be steady, fearless, friendly, devoted, assertive, spirited, energetic, lively, alert, obedient, playful, intelligent, affectionate, athletic, dignified. This combination of traits makes them excellent companions for families with children. Their temperament is influenced by both genetics and proper socialization from an early age.

How much exercise does a Lhasa Apso need?

Lhasa Apsos are high-energy dogs requiring 60+ minutes of vigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation.

How often should I groom my Lhasa Apso?

Lhasa Apsos require intensive grooming with daily brushing and regular professional grooming sessions.

How do I train a Lhasa Apso?

Lhasa Apsos may require extra patience during training and respond best to positive, consistent methods.

Are Lhasa Apsos good with children?

Lhasa Apsos are excellent with children. Their natural patience, gentle nature, and resilience make them outstanding family dogs. They typically form strong bonds with children and tend to be forgiving of the occasional accidental rough handling that can occur with younger kids. Remember that proper socialization and teaching children appropriate interaction with dogs are always important, regardless of breed.

What makes the Lhasa Apso unique compared to other dog breeds?

The Lhasa Apso stands out from other breeds due to its dignified appearance and bearing, rich heritage from Tibet, natural protective instincts. This unique combination of characteristics makes them special among dog breeds and appeals to owners who appreciate these distinct qualities. Understanding these traits helps provide appropriate care tailored to their specific needs.

What should I know before getting a Lhasa Apso?

Before bringing a Lhasa Apso into your home, potential owners should consider: They have high exercise requirements (5/5) and need an active owner. Their coat requires significant maintenance (5/5) with regular grooming sessions. They typically excel in family environments with children (5/5 child-friendliness). They can be challenging to train (2/5) and are better suited for experienced dog owners. Additionally, researching reputable breeders or rescue organizations is essential for finding a healthy, well-socialized Lhasa Apso. Understanding these factors will help ensure a good match between the breed and your lifestyle, leading to a happy relationship for both you and your dog.

What were Lhasa Apsos originally bred for?

Lhasa Apsos were originally bred for guarding inside the home, companion. This protective background explains their naturally alert, territorial nature and sometimes reserved attitude toward strangers. As part of the Non-Sporting group, they share characteristics with other breeds developed for similar purposes. Understanding your Lhasa Apso's breeding heritage helps explain many of their natural behaviors and instincts, which can be channeled appropriately through training and enrichment activities. Even though modern Lhasa Apsos are primarily companions, these inherent traits remain part of their genetic makeup.

How long do Lhasa Apsos typically live?

The average lifespan of a Lhasa Apso is 12 - 15 years. With proper care including quality nutrition, regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate exercise, and preventative healthcare, some Lhasa Apsos may live beyond this range. Genetics, environment, and healthcare all play important roles in determining longevity.

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Lhasa Apso

Written by Dr. Sarah Johnson, Veterinary Consultant

Published: January 15, 2024 • Last updated: December 18, 2025

Temperament

Steady, Fearless, Friendly, Devoted, Assertive, Spirited, Energetic, Lively, Alert, Obedient, Playful, Intelligent, Affectionate, Athletic, Dignified

Weight

12 - 18 lbs

Height

10 - 11 inches

Life Span

12 - 15 years

Breed Group

Non-Sporting

Bred For

Guarding inside the home, companion

Origin

Tibet

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Additional Characteristics

Good with Children5/5

Good with Other Dogs5/5

Trainability2/5

Energy Level5/5

Grooming Needs5/5

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs5/5

They are extremely energetic dogs requiring extensive daily exercise, activities, and mental stimulation.

Grooming Requirements5/5

They have very high maintenance coats requiring daily brushing and regular professional grooming.

Trainability2/5

May require extra patience during training

Good with Children5/5

They are excellent with children and often form strong bonds with them.

Good with Other Dogs5/5

🐕 Lhasa Apso Guide

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Overview

About the Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is a wonderful dog breed with unique characteristics.

Breed Purpose

Guarding inside the home, companion

Temperament

Steady, Fearless, Friendly, Devoted, Assertive, Spirited, Energetic, Lively, Alert, Obedient, Playful, Intelligent, Affectionate, Athletic, Dignified

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Lhasa Apso

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