Lhasa Apso - the sacred talisman of Tibet

Keeping a Lhasa Apso at home

This breed can be kept by anyone who is not afraid of systematic care for voluminous coat. The dog does not require intense physical activity, but does need long walks. If you don't walk your Lhasa Apso, he barks a lot and makes a mess in the house.

Care, hygiene

The puppy must get used to water procedures, since it needs to be completely washed once every two weeks, and partially (fur on the belly and paws) - after each walk.

In addition, any walk should end with combing his luxurious hair using a special comb for long hair and a brush for combing

The coat is carefully combed from the roots along the hairline.

Important! You will have to brush your pet for 30-60 minutes a day. If you leave everything to chance, the fur will roll into tangles that will need to be cut out (you won’t be able to untangle it). If you don’t want to bother with long dog hair, contact a groomer: he will give your dog a beautiful haircut.

As the fur grows, the fur is cut off, not forgetting the hair on the pads. If your Apso does not run enough on hard surfaces (asphalt, cobblestones, paving slabs), the claws will need to be trimmed

If you don’t want to bother with long dog hair, contact a groomer: he will give your dog a beautiful haircut. As the fur grows, the fur is cut off, not forgetting the hair on the pads. If your Apso does not run enough on hard surfaces (asphalt, cobblestones, paving slabs), his claws will need to be trimmed.

If there is plaque in the ears, they are delicately wiped with a damp swab and any mild antiseptic. The same manipulation is done daily with the eyes. It is better to brush your teeth every week, and wash your mustache and beard after every meal.

Diet – what to feed the Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apso are fed the same as most other dogs, including in the diet:

• meat (beef, lean lamb, chicken);
• chicken egg (raw and boiled);
• porridge (from rolled oats, buckwheat or rice);
• dairy products (hard cheese, low-fat kefir and cottage cheese);
• vegetables and fruits, with the exception of citrus fruits.

Pork, hard-to-digest cereals (corn, barley, pearl barley), pickles/smoked foods and tubular bones are prohibited.

The menu must include vitamin and mineral supplements, for example, American Nasc, German Trixie or domestic complexes for long-haired breeds. Like other breeds with a heavy coat, the Lhasa Apso especially needs B vitamins to accelerate the growth of a healthy coat.

Dry food is recommended for long journeys or exhibitions. If you keep your animal completely on factory food, select it taking into account the characteristics of your dog and do not spare money on holistic/super premium products.

Diseases, breed defects

In general, the Lhasa Apso has good health, the general background of which can be spoiled by several diseases typical of this breed. They are considered:

• renal dysplasia;
• various dermatitis;
• luxation of the patella;
• ophthalmological diseases.

Important! Almost all dogs of this breed are prone to tearing, which begins from puppyhood due to hairs scratching the mucous membrane. To avoid causing irritation, the hair near the bridge of the nose is cut or tied into a ponytail. You can wash your eyelids with boiled water (warm), using a separate cotton pad for each eye.

Tea leaves should not be used to wash the eyes of Lhasa Apsos. If the lacrimation becomes severe, you need to go to the veterinarian

You can wash your eyelids with boiled water (warm), using a separate cotton pad for each eye. Tea leaves should not be used to wash the eyes of Lhasa Apsos. If the lacrimation becomes severe, you need to go to the veterinary clinic.

Care and training of Lhasa Apso

When caring for a Lhasa Apso, you should pay special attention to its amazing thick and long coat. You should start accustoming your puppy to water procedures immediately after purchase.

Bath at least once every two weeks, and wash your paws and belly hair after every walk. Also, after each walk, it is necessary to comb the Lhaso Apso's coat.

For combing you need a special comb for the length of the coat and a brush for combing

The coat should be combed along the growth line, from the roots, with extreme caution.

An Apso's coat takes at least half an hour a day to brush. If the Apso is not brushed for at least a few days, the fur will form tangles that cannot be untangled - the fur will have to be cut short.

In addition to brushing, it is necessary to trim the overgrown hair every season, and trim the hair around the paw pads as it grows. Nowadays there are many salons where you can give your Lhasa Apso a beautiful, fashionable haircut.

Every week you need to brush your dog’s teeth with a special dog brush and toothpaste and clean out the ears with a cotton swab. The eyes should be wiped daily, and after feeding, be sure to wash the animal’s face and whiskers.

It is necessary to trim the nails, since the dog does not walk much on stone and asphalt and cannot sharpen its claws on its own. The Lhasa Apso is stubborn but trainable.

It is worth noting that when training, you cannot exert physical influence on the dog. Dogs of this breed are very sensitive to the intonation and pitch of the owner’s voice, therefore, in order to punish or stop the pet, it is enough to simply shout at him.

Extensive physical activity is contraindicated for this breed, so you should not devote too much time to training. From early childhood, a puppy should be taught to carry a leash with a collar in your arms, otherwise, at a more mature age, it will become very difficult to teach the dog to do this.

Very smart, loyal and cheerful, this dog skillfully combines all the best qualities of the canine family. Its small size allows you to keep a dog even in a small apartment, and traveling with an apso is a pleasure.

If a Lhasa Apso puppy appears in the house, happiness, comfort and fun will settle in the house. Apso is the most loyal friend to his family and a reliable companion to his beloved owner.

Care and maintenance

Owning a dog can have a big impact on the owner's budget, unless the owner is a groomer. If we are talking about a show-class dog, then you can safely prepare a whole capital for professional processing.

The dog’s coat itself, which is his business card, will not look chic. Unlike some terriers, the dog does not require curlers and other hair tricks. But you can’t do without a comb. The solution may be Lhasa Apso haircuts. There are many inspiring options available online. You can bathe your animal once a week using special products.

Grooming Lhasa Apso

Regular care requires nails, which need to be trimmed, ears and eyes, which need wiping. It is also worth teaching your puppy to brush his teeth so that in the future the little stubborn dog does not resist and learns this procedure.

Training

The Lhasa Apso is a dog breed that requires strict, step-by-step training. They are smart, but obstinate , and the pet always needs to be explained “what is good and what is bad.” Avoid harsh methods and shouting at the animal.

A dog can be stubborn, but if the owner builds a harmonious relationship with it, it will obey the owner unquestioningly.

Apso is not suitable for inexperienced dog breeders and beginners in the field of cynology.

Nutrition for Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apsos are very demanding when it comes to nutrition; their body needs a balanced diet. It is quite difficult to create the correct daily menu for your pet. Therefore, experienced breeders recommend using premium dry food.

The pet should always have clean drinking water at its disposal, which must be changed several times a day. If the dog does not drink enough water, kidney stones can be deposited in the dog, which will lead to the development of a number of diseases or even the death of the pet.

• If you choose “home cooking,” you should give preference to lean meats. They should only be prepared by boiling or stewing. It is recommended to give your pets fillet. From fermented milk products, Tibetans should be fed medium-fat cottage cheese and milk.
• Eggs are allowed to be given no more than 2 times a week.
• The use of fish should be avoided.
• Recommended cereals are pearl barley and rice.
• Vegetables are needed to keep your pet healthy. Lhasa Apsos love potatoes, corn, boiled carrots, cucumbers and greens.
• Fruit is allowed on the dog's menu; the only taboo is citrus fruits.
• Experts recommend the use of vitamin supplements, which will have a beneficial effect on the coat and overall health of the Lhasa Apso.

Dog nicknames: names for Lhasa Apso

Most people prefer to choose a short, sonorous name for their dog.

You will have to say your dog's name many times a day, and if it is too long, it will be tiring.

When choosing what to name your Lhasa Apso, you can follow two methods.

• The first and easiest: open the list of the most suitable names for this breed and choose the one that you like best.
• Second: choose an unusual name from other sources, for example, from mythology or literature, name the dog after your favorite celebrity, or come up with your own exclusive name.

There are many suitable names for Lhasa Apso girls:

• Amelie,
• Abigail,
• Beggy,
• Gelda,
• Knora,
• Meji,
• Stacy

The following names are good for a Lhasa Apso boy:

• Buddy,
• Benjamin,
• Jaster,
• Zhorzhik,
• Kevin,
• Marchi,
• Richik

Appearance and standards

The Lhasa Apso is a small, well-balanced dog with a strong build. Very lavishly dressed with an abundance of all kinds of colors. Height ranges from 25-28 cm, weight 4-8 kg. Males are noticeably larger and more powerful than females.

Head and muzzle

The skull is rather narrow, rounded behind the eyes. The muzzle is straight. The eyes are oval, medium in size, set straight. The color of the iris is only dark brown. The ears are hanging and well covered. The bite is a tight overbite, that is, the front surface of the upper incisors rests on the back surface of the lower ones. The neck is strong and well arched.

Frame

The body is elongated, well balanced and compact. The back is straight. The chest is wide, the ribs are well sprung and directed back. Limbs with developed muscles. The front legs are straight, the shoulder blades are set obliquely. Hind legs well angulated, hocks parallel when viewed from behind. Paws with strong pads, rounded. Movements are free and easy. The tail is set high and thrown over the back.

Coat and colors

The coat is very thick and double, consisting of a moderately dense soft undercoat and dense, straight, coarse hair (not silky or fluffy). The color can be almost any, but preference is given to golden, its shades and combinations.

Generally recognized breed standards

FCI breed standard No. 227/02/16/2011. Breed classification:

• country of origin: Tibet;
• patronage: UK;
• Application: companion dog;
• general impression: a small dog with thick, coarse and very long hair;
• behavior/temperament: cheerful and self-confident (assertive), vigilant, balanced, reserved towards strangers;
• classification of the International Association of Cynological Federations (ICF): group 9: decorative and companion dogs;
• section 5: Tibetan breeds;
• no operational tests.

Table: external features of the breed

History and description of the breed

Cute fluffy creature - Lhasa Apso. The photo shows a small dog with long hair. The Lhasa Apso arose entirely without human intervention, thanks only to natural selection.

How is the Lhasa Apso different from its fellows? The description of the breed was compiled by dog ​​handlers in great detail. Quite often they are confused with the Shih Tzu, but this is a completely different breed, although it also has long hair.

• The stocky figure of miniature animals (their height does not exceed 25 cm) is almost completely hidden under thick fur.
• The weight of the dogs is from 4 to 7 kg. The legs are strong and short. Appearance resembles a Tibetan terrier.
• The muzzle is square in shape and has fur growing on it (like a beard). Many people notice the similarity of this breed with the Shih Tzu, but the latter have a more rounded head.
• Oval eyes, drooping ears.
• The body is muscular, the chest arches back.

Some of the most important characteristics are the bite (it is reversible), color and coat quality. If the judge finds faults, the dog is discarded. Another sign by which you can distinguish a Shih Tzu from a Lhasa is the tail. In the Shih Tzu it is held high, resembling the handle of a teapot. Their brothers throw their tails over their backs.

The coat is very hard and thick, the undercoat, on the contrary, is very soft. This “robe” protects the breed from the hot rays of the sun during the day and during cold nights. The hair must be straight; waves or curls are a waste. The fur on the face forms thick eyebrows and a beard. Daily brushing is required. A show class Lhasa Apso must have long hair. Only those dogs that do not participate in competitions can radically change their hairstyle. A domestic Lhasa Apso can look however its owners want - sometimes only the face is trimmed, sometimes the entire body is trimmed.

Possible colors:

• beige-fawn;
• golden;
• grey;
• tortoiseshell;
• black and white with reddish inclusions.

Lhasa apso

Breed dossier

1. Country of origin: Tibet. Country of origin of the breed: Great Britain.

2. Classification: Group 9. Companion dogs and toys. Section 5. Tibetan breeds.

3. Training: it is enough to teach the miniature Lhasa Apso dog breed the simplest commands. This dog is a representative of the “indoor” breeds without special working tests, but this does not mean that the Lhasa Apso does not need training. Raising a pet requires encouragement; physical punishment is unacceptable. This dog needs discipline. Be consistent in your actions when training your Lhasa Apso.

4. Color. The most common colors of Lhasa Apso are: golden, honey, wheaten. Brown, smoky, and gray colors may also appear.

5. Dimensions. Height at withers: males: 26 - 28 cm, females 25 - 27 cm. Weight: - kg.

6. General impression: a small dog with thick, coarse and very long hair. The name of this dog translates as “bearded dog”. Indeed, the Lhasa Apso looks a little like a bearded, thoughtful old man from the Tibetan mountains.

7.Usage: companion dog, decorative dog. The Lhasa Apso does not have any special working tests, but it has proven itself to be an excellent companion dog, friend, and family pet for people of all ages.

8. Physical activity: to keep representatives of this breed in good physical shape, long walks around the house twice a day will be sufficient. This dog should not be overloaded with loads, it is not good for him.

9. Character: strong, independent, a little stubborn. The Lhasa Apso is one of those dog breeds that requires a creative approach when training. This dog needs to be taught discipline from puppyhood. The Lhasa Apso dog breed is devoid of aggression, it is a very calm dog (but not phlegmatic, no!), it treats strangers without aggression, but with suspicion.

11. Grooming: not difficult.

12. Accommodation: average. Due to its stubborn nature, the Lhasa Apso may not get along well with other pets.

13. Diseases: Lhasa Apso is a healthy dog ​​breed, but as they age, they can develop hip dysplasia and kidney failure.

14. Diet: balanced. It is better to feed this breed of dog with food specially designed for small breed dogs.

15. Life expectancy: 15 – 18 years.

Photo: Lhasa Apso

Diet and nutrition

Your Lhasa needs two meals a day, up to half a cup of dry dog ​​food per meal. This amount will vary depending on the size, age and activity level of your pet, with a dog's nutritional needs changing over time.

You need to monitor your dog's condition so that he does not gain excess weight, since even half a kilogram is a significant gain for a tiny dog; obesity will shorten her life expectancy and may lead to associated diseases.

Discuss any necessary dietary changes with your veterinarian for recommendations on feeding schedule, amount, type of food and exercise. It is best not to leave food out all day and not to feed your dog human food as a treat.

Minuses

• Barking can be excessive
• Not the best choice for families with small children
• Careful grooming is required to maintain a long, thick coat.

Health and breed defects

The health of the sacred dog is truly that of a lion. Tibet has a very changeable climate, with severe cold giving way to short, warm summers. Perhaps this was the main factor that strengthened the immunity of this extraordinary breed.

However, breeders and owners should not neglect the necessary care of the pet, for example, vaccinations, preventing the appearance of worms, and periodically treating against ticks and fleas.

The good health of these small dogs is also evidenced by the fact that veterinarians cannot give them general anesthesia for surgery. Even a dose of Caucasian Shepherd is not able to turn them off. The operations are performed under local anesthesia.

A fearless guard dog, sensitive and responsive, will become a wonderful companion in your life. Many owners note that the dog is amazing at “seeing” people and will drive out of your home any person who has bad intentions. Lhasa Apsos are low maintenance and only need your love and attention.

History of the origin of the species

There is a hypothesis that the first Apso dog appeared about 4000 years ago in the monasteries of Tibet. The animal served the monks as a faithful guard and devoted friend. According to recent DNA studies, wolf genomes were found in the Lha structure. This gave reason to assume the participation of mountain wolves in the formation of the breed.

Lhaso Apso is one of the few types of selection, the grace and beauty of which is created by nature itself. This variety received its name from the Tibetan city of Lhasa. The addition “apso” means “bearded” in Tibetan. In the old days, dogs were used as security bells. When a stranger appeared, the little watchmen barked to call for more serious guards - Tibetan mastiffs.

The monks firmly believed that Apso dogs were the reincarnation of the spirits of deceased sacred lamas, so for a long time this breed was inaccessible to other countries. The animal could be given as a sign of Buddhist blessing and special predisposition. At that time, this was the only opportunity to get a Lhasa dog and take it outside the homeland.

The world first learned about the existence of this unique species from the manuscripts of dog handler Jacobs in 1901. America saw a live Lhasa Apso dog in 1933. The pet was received as a gift from the Dalai Lama by researcher Cutting. It was a purebred representative of an ancient species, first registered by the English Cynology Society.

This species is less common in Russia. The reasons for such low popularity, according to experienced dog breeders, may be the lack of historical ties with Tibet and the amateur preferences of the country's residents.

Pros and cons of the breed

Purebred Tibetan Mastiffs are more expensive than other breeds on the planet. Before spending money, you need to think about all the positive and negative qualities of the animal and compare them with your own capabilities.

Positive qualities include the following:

• Remarkable guarding skills of the Tibetan Mastiff.
• Character – dogs are friendly and kind to their charges.
• They are undemanding to a high level of living conditions and nutrition - but this does not mean that it is completely unnecessary to pay attention to them. Otherwise the dog will get sick.
• Independence.
• Cold resistance.

Negative qualities:

• Unsuitability for living in an apartment due to its size.
• Stubbornness.
• A strong voice and a love for using it.
• Shedding.

Even though there are more pros than cons, the latter may be more significant in some living conditions.

Character

Among decorative dogs, there are few who are distinguished by fearlessness and determination. The Lhasa Apso dog is an exception. She is smart, loyal and very gentle. She is always friendly and friendly with her family members. Requires affection and a lot of attention. Sad if she is ignored.

Such a dog is an amazing combination of wolfish fearlessness and canine devotion. He loves the owner and all the people towards whom he has a positive attitude. The animal “reads” the owner’s attitude towards strangers with maximum accuracy.

His psychological state is largely determined by the mood of his loved one

If he is upset about something, the dog will not run around fervently and draw attention to himself. In this case, he will lie down at the feet of the owner and gently lower his head on his feet

Also, these cute creatures love to lie with people under a warm blanket; they always prefer to sleep in the same bed with them. Most often, they are allowed to do this. An affectionate dog will not leave anyone indifferent.

She behaves unobtrusively, expectantly. When a stranger appears in her house, she will take a wait-and-see attitude. The animal will analyze the owner’s attitude towards the parishioner and, if it is positive, then it will happily come into contact with him.

Kind and cheerful people will always be surrounded by the tenderness of the Lhasa Apso. This creature does not tolerate hatred, anger and suspicion. It believes that love should rule the world and lives in accordance with this.

But there are situations when even such a beautiful and gentle dog can become very angry. Most often, her aggression is provoked by a threat. You cannot shout at the owner of such a dog, because, by analogy with a pit bull terrier, he will rush at the offender and cause him physical damage.

Don't underestimate the little four-legged bodyguard! Yes, he is small, but very strong and brave. Even decorative dogs, being close to their loved ones, feel like their protectors.

The Lhasa Apso puppy grows up very quickly. Childhood naivety and playfulness are replaced by poise and prudence by the age of 1 year. Such dogs certainly cannot be called “eternal puppies.” But in order for them to grow up manageable and adequate, their behavior should always be controlled.

Important! A misconception is that decorative dog breeds do not need training. Remember, any dog ​​needs to be raised and trained, even a mongrel. Without this, it can become a source of a lot of problems for you.

Without this, it can become a source of a lot of problems for you.

These animals adore babies. They allow them to do whatever they want with themselves: pull the fur, pick at it, climb on themselves, etc. If some of the child’s actions cause pain to this dog, he will move away from him, but will never bite or even make noise. sound.

This is absolutely not a jealous breed. Even the birth of a baby in a family in which she was previously the only favorite will not make her upset

A smart dog understands that there will definitely be a place for it in the owner’s heart, so it will not “mischief” and attract unnecessary attention to itself.

Nutrition of Tibetan Mastiffs

Care should also include normal nutrition.

It’s worth warning right away that such dogs eat a lot, especially when they are growing up. Adult Tibetan Mastiffs, on the contrary, do not eat much less than a Labrador or Boxer. That is why the feeding of these dogs should be complete. So, the food should be natural (or consist of ready-made products designed specifically for dogs of this breed), and the nutrition should be balanced.

The main thing is not to mix ready-made dry food with natural food, which can have a bad effect on the dog’s health.

Also keep equal intervals between feedings. A puppy should eat at least six times a day until he is six months old; subsequently, complementary feeding can be reduced to four times.

There are several important rules that the owner must follow:

• Never overfeed your dog;
• Do not soak dry food in milk or water;
• Do not suddenly change food, which can lead to disruption of the dog’s development;
• do not purchase food that is not suitable for the puppy’s age;
• try not to feed your dog too hot food, smoked foods, or river fish.
• Also, the diet should be complete; it should include cereals, eggs, vegetables and fruits, and meat.

When choosing what to feed your puppy, give preference to the following components of the diet:

• boiled and raw meat (horse meat, beef);
• processed offal (heart, liver, lungs);
• porridges cooked with milk (buckwheat, rice, oatmeal);
• vegetables;
• fermented milk products (kefir, cottage cheese).
• Vitamins are an essential component of a healthy diet.

What to feed an adult dog? Stop by these products:

• veal, beef;
• chicken eggs;
• sea ​​fish;
• bread;
• pasta and flour products.

Make sure there is drinking water in your pet's bowl. Don't feed your dog sweets.

When choosing what food to feed your pet, proceed from the age of the dog and the composition of the food. It is advisable to choose food that is suitable specifically for the Tibetan Mastiff breed.

Inexpensive foods do not include all minerals and vitamins, so add foods that contain the missing microelements to your daily diet.

Intelligence and character of Tibetan mastiffs

According to the classification of the International Canine Association (ICF), the Tibetan Mastiff belongs to the guard and guard dogs. It follows from this that dogs of this breed are well suited for protecting the territory and the owner himself, while remaining loyal companions. He has a balanced, strong character, but at the same time stern.

Characteristics of the Tibetan Mastiff:

• Courage.
• Self-confidence.
• Distrust of strangers.
• Staying calm in dangerous situations.

These qualities indicate that the Tibetan Mastiff is excellent for living in a family and is tough only in appearance.

As for living together with other animals, dogs of this breed get along well with cats and can even tolerate being in the same room with another dog, but the latter should not show aggression towards the mastiff itself or its owner. When living peacefully with a Tibetan Mastiff, he will love everyone who is in his home.

We should also talk about the voice. The bark of this watchdog is able to strike fear into even the most brazen troublemaker, however, those with a clear conscience should not be afraid of him. The loudness of the bark is a feature of this breed and is determined by the size of the chest and well-developed lungs, which push air through tense vocal cords.

Attitude towards children and others

The Tibetan Mastiff will have a caring attitude towards the owner's children, since over time the dog will begin to consider them his family, and it is customary to protect and defend the family. However, he will not perceive other people's children the same way, so if small guests come to the house, you should protect them from the dog, who may show aggression. A stranger's child nearby can easily play noisily, wave his arms and talk loudly, which is regarded by the dog as a threat. Naturally, when making a decision, an individual approach to each individual is required.

And, despite the fact that the Tibetan Mastiff is an excellent nanny and will be a good friend, you should not leave him alone with small children completely unattended. Even without meaning to, the dog will cause injury due to its size.

Training and education, how to find an approach to the Tibetan Mastiff

Due to its status as a guard dog, the mastiff is highly trainable. From the history of the development of the breed, we can conclude that dogs have been walking hand in hand for several thousand years. Even despite its friendliness towards its “family”, there are several complex nuances in the animal’s character.

The process of raising a puppy must be started on the very first day that the pet will spend in its new home. There are several commands that you can teach your dog at home, namely:

• "It is forbidden"
• "Sit"

To train your puppy to sit still, you will need to give your Tibetan Mastiff a treat. This is not difficult: you need to lift the treat above the puppy’s muzzle, and with your other hand press on its body, repeating the command until the dog begins to understand. After completing the command, give the puppy a treat.

• "Walk"

Every time you go for a walk, putting a leash and muzzle on your animal, you should repeat “walk” in an even tone, a little positively. Already the second or third time, the puppy will understand the meaning of the command and expect a walk.

• "To me"

A very important command, but easy to learn. At first, the puppy is released freely on the leash, and, repeating the command, they are gradually pulled towards themselves, shortening the lace and reducing the distance.

After this command, you cannot punish the dog, even if it is guilty of something. Otherwise, the animal will stop following the command.

• "Place"

One of the first commands a puppy should learn. She shows the baby a place in the apartment that will be his personal territory, and therefore an ideal place for hiding. Definitely a positive team. To accustom the puppy to it, every time he lies down to rest after eating or playing, move him to his special “place” in the apartment, and then gently and affectionately repeat the name of the command.

The dog should not be punished in this place as he needs to feel safe.

• "Give"
• "Lie"
• "Near"

The last two commands are difficult to master until a year old, because the puppy has not yet acquired perseverance.

Character

The character of the Lhasa Apso is cheerful, it seems that the pet was created for fun. However, he behaves this way only with the owner, his family. These little dogs have a desire for independence, which sometimes manifests itself even at home. Sometimes this interferes with education. Funny pets with big eyes and long fur coats look very comical when they demonstrate their independence.

Lhasa Apsos are considered one of the most loyal breeds. Dogs cannot do without the attention of their owner. Long separation and loneliness have a negative impact on the physical and emotional health of the pet. In return for selfless love for the owner, he will expect the same attitude towards himself.

The fighting nature of small dogs makes it possible to use them for security purposes. If your pet is alone at home when a stranger comes in, he will bite him without hesitation. In foreign countries, the practice of using Apso dogs as guide dogs began.

Character and temperament

Apso is a unique and contradictory dog. According to the breeders, despite its small size, it has the soul and heart of a large dog. They are cheerful and funny, independent friends, but at the same time they require increased attention, special patience, and they need strict discipline.

Pros:

• patience;
• friendliness towards owners and family members;
• vigilance and caution;
• playfulness and energy;
• self confidence;
• fearlessness;
• attachment to people.

But representatives of this breed also have disadvantages :

• Lhasa are wayward;
• the dog requires attention and a subtle understanding of its nature;
• don't like to be alone.

Diseases and health problems

Tibetans are considered very strong animals, immune to various diseases. Generally. the state of health largely depends on the conditions created by the owner. Compliance with the drinking regime, hygiene rules, and a balanced diet enriched with vitamins will significantly reduce the risk of various pathologies.

When purchasing a puppy, you should definitely ask what illnesses the pet’s parents had. Also, the owner should periodically visit the veterinarian for preventive purposes and get all vaccinations. 10-14 days before vaccination it is necessary to remove worms and measure the temperature. Normally it should be 38-39 degrees. Vaccination is prohibited for sick animals, as well as pregnant females and males after mating. There are a number of diseases that are specific to this breed. These are mainly diseases of the musculoskeletal system that occur due to high weight.

Diseases that are typical for Tibetans:

• Osteochondrosis;
• Joint dysplasia, which leads to bending and deformation of the front and rear legs. This pathology is practically incurable;
• Panosteitis is the appearance of foci of inflammation in the bones;
• Ear infections;
• Neuropathy;
• Pathologies of the thyroid gland.

How to choose a Tibetan Mastiff puppy

The main thing in choosing a purebred puppy is its behavior. This is exactly what you need to pay attention to. The healthiest purebred puppies are the most active and strong in the litter. A small mastiff whose character is too aggressive and restless, this can be an alarm bell and a reason to refuse to choose a specific individual. Still, this indicates instability of the nervous system.

If you decide to get a Tibetan with a good pedigree, you should not lose sight of the gender of the puppy. Females are calmer and more docile, get sick less often, are smaller in size and more sensitive to the owner, while males are much more aggressive and active than females.

In practice, it becomes impossible to acquire an adult mastiff due to the fact that by their nature they become attached to their first owner and have a very difficult time making contact with strangers.

Education and training

Dogs are distinguished by their intelligence and well-developed intellect. However, the stubborn nature does not allow the animal to show and reveal its full potential. They resist any manifestations of restriction of their freedom. Therefore, the owner must, first of all, show who is boss in the house. Only a leadership position will help to properly educate and set the dog up for work. As soon as the owner shows weakness, the education process will come to naught.

During training, you must not show cruelty or aggression; it is also strictly not recommended to raise your voice

It is important to be strict and encouraging. Timely contact will allow you to teach your dog many commands.

Mutual understanding will pleasantly surprise and expand horizons.

Another difficulty is toilet training your pet. The breed has a naturally weak bladder, so babies defecate often and wherever they want. They physically cannot restrain their natural needs.

Apso owners also often experience small dog syndrome.

It is important to correct this feature from a tender age. If such an antics plan is not stopped, then bad behavior can become a bad habit.

During the training process, it is important to pay special attention to obedience commands. After all, quite often in adult life, dogs attack other dogs, sometimes much larger than them. At such moments they become uncontrollable

Sometimes this kind of behavior ends badly for the apso.

At such moments they become uncontrollable. Sometimes this behavior ends badly for the apso.

Man and dog

Apso gets along well with children and tolerates their mischief and tricks for the time being. Feels great in a crowded company.

Despite its “decorative” appearance, it easily guides its owners on hikes and travels and tolerates the road well. Apso is energetic , so lying on his knees endlessly is not suitable for him. This is an excellent companion dog.

Due to its stubborn and capricious nature, the Apso does not get along with other dogs and cats - it is better to take the Lhasa to a family where there are no other pets.

Nutrition

The condition of a dog's straight, silky fur is the main indicator of its health. And it is determined by several factors, the main one of which is nutrition. If it is not balanced and natural, the dog will become weak and less attractive. Veterinarians recommend not experimenting with the diet of such a dog, but choosing good dry food for it.

The puppies are very affectionate and do not look like adult Lhasa Apso dogs.

The stores will help you with your choice! There are several quality food options for toy and small dogs. This product contains all the nutrients and elements that a dog needs for a quality life. They will enrich it with vitamins and energize it.

We strongly do not recommend overfeeding your Lhasa Apso. He should eat 2-3 times a day. You shouldn’t give him your extra scraps. It is strictly forbidden to give the dog:

• Sweets.
• Smoked meats.
• Raw potatoes.
• Dirty fruits and vegetables.
• Sour berries.
• Casserole.

Also monitor the temperature of the food served to the animal. Hot foods can severely burn his larynx. Energetic little dogs drink a lot, so we advise you to always check the presence of mineral water in their second bowl.

Origin story

The Lhasa Apso is one of the oldest breeds on earth. Its homeland is mystical Tibet. The first mention of this animal dates back to the 8th century BC. e., however, many researchers are confident that these cute dogs appeared much earlier.

Lhasa Apso have always been in special regard among the local population, since their existence is closely intertwined with religion and local beliefs. The dogs were named after the holy city of Lhasa, where the Dalai Lama himself lived.

It is worth noting that before Buddhism came to Tibet, the Bon Po religion ruled there. Her followers were shamans and sorcerers. During this period, it was believed that the soul of the deceased was able to move into a dog. These animals lived at the monastery and served as guards there. In addition, they were an obligatory attribute of the ruling dynasty of Tibet and the close aristocracy.

After the official change of religion to Buddhism, a large number of new monasteries were built. Dogs gradually changed their place of residence along with religion, while their sacred status was preserved. Although the new monks did not share the theory of the transmigration of the soul from a human body to a dog body.

Buddhists sincerely admired small, royally graceful dogs, which, in addition to their external beauty, were distinguished by excellent watchdog abilities. They were intelligent, highly capable, loyal and independent thinkers. Today the breed dates back more than 2 thousand years.

During the reign of the Dalai Lama, it was strictly forbidden to take sacred animals outside the territory of Tibet, with the exception of those cases when he personally brought them as a gift. A pair was always presented as a gift, since giving only one dog was considered bad manners. Buddhists believed that these dogs bring happiness and good luck. For many years in a row, the Dalai Lama gave Lhaso Apso to the ruler of China and his family, until 1908.

The International Kennel Club accepted the breed in 1935.

History of the Lhasa Apso breed

Probably one of the most ancient breeds, the Lhasa Apso originated when written sources, and perhaps even writing, did not exist. These were the plateaus and monasteries of Tibet, where she was a friend and guardian.

Lhasa Apso appeared in Tibet about 4 thousand years ago and are one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. Presumably their ancestors were small mountain wolves and local dog breeds.

Recent genetic studies have shown that these dogs are close in genotype to wolves, after which they were classified as the oldest dog breeds, along with Akita Inu, Chow Chow, Basenji, Afghan and others.

Lhasa is the capital of Tibet, and apso in the local language translates as bearded, so a rough translation of the name of the breed is “bearded dog from Lhasa.” However, it may also be related to the word “rapso”, meaning “goat-like”.

The main function of the dogs was to guard the houses of the nobility and Buddhist monasteries, especially in the capital area. Huge Tibetan mastiffs guarded the entrances and walls of the monastery, and small and ringing Lhasa apsos served as bells for them. If a stranger appeared on the territory, they barked and called for serious security. The monks believed that the souls of deceased lamas remained in the body of the Lhasa Apso until they were reborn. They were never sold and the only way to receive such a dog was as a gift.

Since Tibet was an inaccessible and, moreover, closed country for many years, the breed was not known in the outside world. In the early 1900s, several dogs were brought with them by military personnel returning to England after serving in Tibet. The new breed was named Lhasa Terrier.

The breed came to America as a gift from the 13th Dalai Lama to the Tibetan explorer Cutting, who arrived in the United States in 1933. At that time there was the only dog ​​of this breed registered in England.

Over the next 40 years, it gradually gained popularity and reached its peak in the late nineties. However, in 2010 the breed was ranked 62nd in popularity in the United States, a significant decline from 2000, when it was ranked 33rd. In the territory of the former USSR it is known even less, apparently because close ties with Tibet were not historically maintained there, and after the collapse it did not manage to gain a large number of fans.

Tibetan Mastiff - characteristics of the breed

The Tibetan Mastiff is one of the largest dogs on earth. It has a powerful and very durable skeleton. The height of an adult dog reaches 60-70 centimeters. You're probably wondering how much an adult Tibetan Mastiff weighs? And here is the answer: 65-80 kilograms is normal weight for an adult. All parts of the dog's body are proportional to each other. The head is powerful and quite heavy, the skull is round in shape with a convexity at the back of the head. Dogs have a wide muzzle, rectangular in front. It flows into a voluminous nose with impressive nostrils, on either side of which voluminous lips hang down to the lower jaw. The nose area is dark, almost black.

Adults often have a fold of skin on the side of the snout. The mastiff's ears are triangular in shape and located above the eyes. Most often they hang in front. The animals' eyes are oval-shaped, slightly slanted, and fairly far apart from each other. Eyes brown or honey color. Mastiffs have quite powerful, strong jaws. The canines of the upper and lower jaw form a scissor or straight bite.

Animals have a strong and powerful neck and a pronounced scruff. The neck area is covered with thick and long hair, forming a mane. The mane is present not only in males, but also in females. Dogs have a powerful, fit body. A strong back extends into a toned stomach and massive croup. The tail of dogs is high and of medium length. It is covered with long, thick hair and laid on the back in the shape of a ring. During the period when the mastiff is alarmed or worried about something, as well as overly happy and excited, the tail is in an elevated state.

Dogs have a very powerful forearm area, which extends into massive and strong front legs. The elbow area is directed exclusively backward. The toes on the front feet are slightly curved and have long, thick claws. The hind legs are slightly smaller in size, they are distinguished by a parallel arrangement relative to each other, as well as a very muscular thigh. The pads on the limbs are most often black or match the color of the animal. The mastiff's coat is thick and long. It is longest in the area of ​​the nape. There is an undercoat that keeps them warm during the cold season. In summer, it all falls out during the molting process.

Similar breeds

There are two breeds similar to the Tibetan Mastiff, but they have breed characteristics.

The first dog that comes to mind is the Banhar or Mongolian Shepherd. Unlike the Tibetan Mastiff, the Banhar is smaller and less shaggy, and its character is a little more aggressive, but they are similar and belong to the same guard dog group.

Another example would be a dog of the Buryat-Mongolian wolfhound breed. Like the Tibetan Mastiff, this breed comes from the mountains of Tibet.

Diet of Tibetan Mastiffs

When planning to get a Tibetan, you should take into account the fact that they require a huge amount of food due to their body size and weight. It is also necessary to monitor their diet. Tibetans require a lot of high-calorie food. An adult dog should eat at least one and a half kilograms of food daily. The owner must strictly control the pet’s diet depending on the season and time of year. During the cold season, Tibetans need more food.

Until three months of age, puppies should eat 4-5 times a day. From six months they are transferred to three meals a day. Once puppies reach two months of age, they are offered a small amount of solid food.

Currently, dog breeders are increasingly choosing dry types of food as a source of nutrition. They ensure that the dog’s body receives the required amount of vitamins, minerals and other substances necessary for full growth and development. If the dog owner still chooses dry food, it is necessary to give preference to premium food, which is designed for especially large breeds.

Every owner who chooses natural food for their dog should make it balanced and nutritious. The diet should be varied, taking into account the dog’s taste preferences, as well as foods prohibited for it.

What not to feed Tibetan Mastiffs:

• Pork;
• Baked goods, bakery products, confectionery products;
• Butter;
• Small bones;
• Fruits;
• Beans;
• Potato;
• Onion garlic;
• Nuts;
• Fatty, fried, spicy and salty foods.

Food for your pet should be prepared specially and served not too hot and not too cold. Be sure to ensure the required amount of calcium is supplied. This is required so that the bones are stronger, since a large mass puts a serious load on the musculoskeletal system.

In a natural diet, approximately half comes from protein foods. These are eggs, lean meats, sea fish, and dairy products. About a third of the diet should be cereals. From childhood, it is necessary to introduce dogs to vegetables and some fruits, which are added to porridge. Be sure to add vitamins to your food

Particular attention should be paid to maintaining the drinking regime. The bowl of water should always be full

It is worth taking water for walks in the warm season.

Diet

The diet of the Tibetan Mastiff can be divided into two types: natural food and combined dry food.

Natural food type

Natural nutrition should be balanced, include all the necessary substances for building the body, normal metabolism, and obtaining energy. Proteins, fats, carbohydrates, microelements and macroelements, water - all these substances must enter the body in the required quantities. And you need to ensure that in addition to these substances, various toxins, bacterial and viral pathogens, or even parasites are not introduced.

From two months of age, the Tibetan Mastiff needs to be fed six times a day using the following foods:

• Dietary meat, an example of which is beef.
• Kefir.
• Cottage cheese.
• Various cereals, the best choice is buckwheat or rice.
• Eggs.
• Vegetables (boiled).
• Fruits (fresh).
• Olive oil.
• Green herbs - parsley or dill.

A veterinarian will help you choose the right diet for your dog, and he will also help you choose a special vitamin supplement.

By the sixth month of life, feeding a Tibetan should be switched to five meals a day. In addition to the above products, you can add boneless fish. An adult dog is fed two to three times a day.

The amount of food per day must be calculated based on the dog’s weight. A mastiff should eat exactly three percent of its own weight per day.

Rare gray color of the Tibetan Mastiff

Dry food

Dry ready-made food is also an excellent solution. It is balanced in micro and macroelements; no special vitamin supplement is required. A wide range from which you can choose the ideal option for each individual based on the age, gender, physiological state and financial situation of the owner.

What should you pay attention to?

• Color. High-quality food is dark brown in color and does not contain dyes or flavor enhancers.
• Meat. A high-quality food should contain at least 50% meat, since a dog is still a predator, and this type of nutrition is provided for by evolution. As a rule, this is beef or turkey, but chicken or fish are found in cheap feeds.
• Vegetables. They are considered in the composition together with cereals. A good food should contain less than 50%.
• By-products Conscientious producers indicate which by-products are used in the production of feed. The food may contain lungs, kidneys and liver. Otherwise, hooves and skins can be used.
• Dyes

Food is divided into several types - economy, elite and premium, but this does not mean that economy-class food is necessarily bad. It’s just that their energy value is much lower.

When feeding dry concentrated food, the dog must have free access to water.

Vitamins and supplements

Due to the genetic predisposition of Tibetan mastiffs to joint diseases, it is necessary to add so-called chondroprotectors to their food - supplements aimed at protecting the cartilage formations of the body. Mixtures with calcium and phosphorus are often used.

Buy a Lhasa Apso - tips, recommendations

These wayward dogs will be uncomfortable in a house with a lot of children or next to an indifferent owner. Dog trainers warn that the breed is suitable for those who have the patience to overcome its stubbornness, as well as the time to care for its coat and the energy for long walks.

Where to buy, what to look for

It cannot be said that the breed is particularly in demand among Russian dog breeders, which has its own explanation - its late appearance in the post-Soviet space and the difficulty of caring for its coat.

A purebred Lhasa Apso is expensive, and you should look for such a puppy in trusted kennels, and there are not many of them in Russia. Several are located in Moscow, the rest are in the Leningrad region, Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk, Tolyatti and Donetsk (DPR).

Since Lhasa Apso are susceptible to hereditary ailments, the future pet should be carefully examined, focusing on the condition of the coat. It should be smooth and shiny

If the fur is dull and wrinkled, the puppy is most likely sick. Such a baby will not play or show interest in you, but will try to hide.

Breeders usually give away a healthy puppy no earlier than he is 1.5-2 months old: at this age the animal’s psyche is almost formed and it has received its first vaccinations.

Lhasa Apso dog price

A puppy with an excellent pedigree will cost at least 30 thousand rubles. The highest price for a show-class puppy is determined by the parents' titles and often reaches 50-80 thousand rubles.

If you are not interested in dog shows, buy a baby on the free classifieds site. It will cost you much less.

Purchasing a puppy

If you are engaged in breeding, then Lhaso Apso puppies are purchased from a nursery or from trusted breeders.

Professionals will help you choose an animal and tell you about the advantages and disadvantages of each baby. Most of them value their reputation and have reviews and recommendations.

When purchasing a puppy, choose:

• active and cheerful;
• look at what the baby’s parents look like, what conditions they live in, what they are fed;
• carefully feel the fur, it should be clean, smooth and well-groomed;
• check the condition of teeth and bite;
• availability of vaccinations.

The cost of a puppy depends on what kind of parents it has. What titles do they have?

Show class, premium quality puppies are intended for participation in exhibitions, they are the most expensive. Such dogs have a great chance of becoming winners of prestigious shows. Their cost is about one thousand dollars.

Pet quality or economy class puppies are the most affordable. Their cost in nurseries near Moscow is 15-20 thousand rubles. They have some deviations from the standards, but are also adorable and loyal.