Lhasa Apso - Appearance & Grooming
Dog Breeds
Introduction
Appearance & Grooming of the Lhasa Apso Dog Breed: The average Lhasa Apso stands 10 or 11 inches at the shoulder and weight between 12 and 18 pounds. Their long, dense coat requires regular grooming and maintenance.
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Appearance
Lhasa Apsos are small and hardy, sporting long, dense double coats that cover the entire body and flow all the way to the floor. They have a beard and a mustache, and the hair hangs over the head, their pendant ears and small, brown eyes. The nose should be black. The teeth should meet in a level or slightly undershot bite. Lhasas are longer than they are tall, and have a level topline. The tail heavily feathered, is carried over the back in a screw, and some dogs may have a kink at the end of the tail. Lhasas may be any color of the canine rainbow, but the most common colors are honey, black, white, slate, or parti-color.
Size and Weight
The height of individual Lhasas may vary, but the standard calls for approximately 10 or 11 inches at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller than their male counterparts. Males should weigh between 14 and 18 pounds, and females between 12 and 14 pounds. The overall proportion of the dog is the most important thing, when being judged in the show ring.
Coat and Color
The long, dense coat of the Lhasa Apso is a sight to behold when it is properly maintained. It should not be hard to the touch, but not wooly, and should never be silky. Lhasas may be any color of the canine rainbow, but the most common colors are honey, black, white, slate, or parti-color.
Grooming Needs
Maintaining the Lhasa Apso coat can be time-consuming. Those who do not show their Lhasa often opt for clipping the coat, in order to reduce maintenance. For show dogs, or for those who wish to keep the coat long and flowing, brushing and combing must occur on a daily basis. Baths are required every two to four weeks.
Check the ears on a regular basis for signs of wax buildup, irritation or infection. Clean the ears with a cotton ball and a veterinarian-approved cleanser; never use a cotton swab in a dog's ear canal. Teeth should be brushed on a weekly basis to prevent tartar buildup, promote gum health and keep bad breath at bay. Trim nails monthly if the dog does not wear the toenails down naturally outdoors.
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Temperament & Personality