Beyond the Himalayan Mountains lie the high plateau of the mysterious Tibet~the most inaccessible country in the world. A strange ancient land of quaint little people with an innate distrust of strangers, cheerful and kindly, yet hot tempered when roused. In this native land, comes a breed known as apso Seng Kyi, "Barking Lion Sentinel Dog" or Lhasa Apso.

These charming dogs were kept by monks and nobles, and cherished as carriers of good luck. The Lhasa Apso is said to have an uncanny ability to predict avalanches. The dogs participated in religious ceremonies and guarded the monasteries. They were never sold, but were often given as gifts meant to be highly valued. It was believed that when the monks died, their souls entered the bodies of the Lhasa Apso. For this reason, just the dogs presence was thought to ward off evil.

Lhasa's have a double coat with moderate undercoat which provides good insulation. The top coat is of a hard texture and serves as a waterproof jacket. The dense coat on the Lhasa needs a great deal of frequent attention to prevent mats, or can be clipped short to avoid the issue. Anyone considering a Lhasa for a pet should consider the expense of keeping them clipped every 4-6 weeks, or should realize that daily combing and brushing will be required. They do not shed.

Lhasa's are very long lived. Dogs of 18 years and more are not at all uncommon. They are prone to kidney problems, skin conditions, allergies, and eye problems. Twinkie has allergies and kidney problems, in addition to her spinal  degenerative disc Disease problems.

Lhasa Apsos are very popular, and they have been exploited by puppy millers who supply the pet shops. This is where I found my Twinkie, in a pet shop. I unknowingly supported a puppy mill be buying a poorly bred puppy from a pet shop. Puppy mills do not screen their breeding dogs for genetic health problems, and the breeding stock is not selected for resemblance to the breed standard or for good temperament.  Without breeding programs, the dogs produced are in poor health and poorly socialized. The breeding dogs are neglected and abused. Puppy millers only care about making money. They do not care if you are heartbroken when you lose your dog to major health problems later. I now consider ALL dogs sold in pet shops to be from puppy mills. Beware, beware, beware. Buy only from a reputable breeder, as many inferior animals with major health problems are being sold. Reputable breeders NEVER sell their puppies to pet shops!!! You will be  avoiding a lot of heartbreak and expense if you seek out a reputable breeder.

I love the Lhasa personality, but they are not the dog for everyone. They are highly intelligent, gay and assertive, yet sensitive to the moods of their owners. Spirited, devoted, lively, confident, and hardy. Very loving with her master and wary of strangers. (Like the Tibetans!) Moderately protective. 

Lhasa's are not tolerant of teasing or rough children. They can be snappish if surprised or peeved. They are best with older, considerate children. Personality differs as some are willful, and some are very obedient to the master. I have read that they respond best to motivational training and should have a fairly dominant master. I have found Twinkie to be a fast learner, and she is eager to please me. Being intelligent, they often think they know more than you do and consider themselves as your equal!

Lhasa Apso's are big dogs in a small package. They are not recommended for the novice owner. They make excellent watchdogs and are very protective of their turf and their master. They are not lap dogs. They thrive on activity indoors, and do not require a big yard. Moderate exercise is needed. With Twinkie, this is accomplished with doggy races up and down the hallway and around the house with Sugar Bear. Twinkie loves to go for a walk up and down the block. She definitely loves to go outdoors, but Lhasa's are not the kind of dog you can leave in the yard all day as an outside dog!!! Years and years of close contact with people  in Tibet have developed their lovable personalities, and they are devoted, faithful dogs.