History and Origin: an ancient breed developed in Tibet probably from crosses with Tibetan terriers and other herding type breeds of that era and region. Cherished in the Tibetan monasteries as companions and guardians. The Himalayan mountains are rugged and inhospitable and the Lhasa needed to be strong, hardy, and heavily coated for protection from extreme weather. Regarded as good luck charms, the dogs were always gifted to special persons that the Lamas admired. Lhasa is the capital city of Tibet. Breed recognized by AKC in 1935.
General Appearance: small rectangular breed, long heavy coat over body, legs, feet, and head. Long tail carried well over back and draping to either side. Drop ears, black nose, almond shaped eyes. Exotic and elegant appearance. Size: Height 10-11 inches Weight 12-18 pounds
Coat and Colour: Double coated, the coat is long thick and luxurious. Considered a drop coat, in an adult it reaches to the floor. Ears are heavily furnished and long hair on head covers the eyes. Coat is heavy, dense, straight and is parted head to tail. All colors from black to white and mixtures of colours are acceptable. If maintained in full coat, this breed will require fastidious and frequent bushing and bathing. However, a family pet may be trimmed for easier and regular grooming.
Feeding: a quality kibble fed dry twice a day will be adequate.
Training and Obedience: should be socialized early to avoid unwanted behaviours. Can be rather stubborn, but with correct and fair training will be able to excel in several dog sports including obedience, rally, and agility. Overly strict and repetitive training will cause them to be bored Training periods should be short enjoyable and rewarding for the dog. Can do well as therapy dogs.
Activity: a lively hardy and energetic breed, the Lhasa will require a daily walk or a game of fetch in the house on bad weather days. A fenced secure area for play and running is beneficial too. The breed does not require long hours of activity.
Temperament: A highly intelligent breed, intensely loyal to his family, loves to be a lap dog. A natural guardian due to his heritage and will bark if sensing danger. Happy, loving and rather comical. May be aloof or wary of strangers.