Lhasa Apso — breed guide
A Tibetan monastery sentinel — small, but it considers itself security.
At a glance
- Group
- non-sporting
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 5–8 kg (11–18 lb)
- Life span
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Long, heavy, floor-length if left
Living with a Lhasa Apso
- Low energy — happy with gentle daily exercise.
- Daily grooming — this coat is a commitment.
- Light shedding.
- Trainable with consistency.
- Barks readily.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Typically lives happily with a cat.
- Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Sensitive to heat; keep summer walks short.
- Handles cold well.
Temperament
Independent · Alert · Comical · Loyal
Health to watch
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Kidney dysfunction
- Dry eye
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Lhasa Apso good with kids?
Generally yes. Lhasa Apsos are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Lhasa Apso good with cats?
Usually yes. Lhasa Apsos typically settle well with a resident cat — introduce them slowly and give the cat a high perch and a way out of the room.
How much exercise does a Lhasa Apso need?
A gentle daily walk.
Can a Lhasa Apso handle hot weather?
It is sensitive; avoid the midday heat.
Leash Life keeps a Lhasa Apso's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.