My Dog Training Secrets 

Bred for life in the monasteries of Tibet, the Lhasa Apso is a good watchdog and can live in colder climates. They are usually 10-12 inches at the withers and weigh 14-18 pounds, although females will be slightly smaller. With good care some dogs can live past 15 years. Lhasa Apso's are good watchdogs with their cautious nature towards strangers and will bark to let you know someone is approaching. They are completely loyal and affectionate with their masters but many will not be fond of strangers no matter how obedient they are. This may be part of their watch dog tendency. This breed is naturally happy, playful, and mischievous, however, they are very intelligent and are known for being very independent.

Lhasa Apso pups are not only adorable, small, and so cute but also are good friends and companions to have for a lifetime. They are typically happy and long lived, adaptable and good with families including children when raised around them. Lhasa Apsos are somewhat less tolerant of children, or defend themselves better, depending on how you look at it, so they may not be suitable for households with young children. They can get on well with older children who respect them, and they are an active breed which enjoys exercise with children. It is one of the strongest minded of all small breeds but equally lives to please its owner.

Lhasa Apsos are intelligent and require a firm but gentle master. They do prefer living by their own rules but are extremely sensitive and enjoy pleasing their masters. This breed can be difficult to train with their obstinate behavior and the owner shouldn't expect any tricks from them. Working best in the presence of strong and consistent leadership, expectations that are based on clear direction and definite well-timed consequences will get the best results.

Regardless of the dog training techniques one uses, Lhasas need to clearly know when their behavior is right and when they are wrong. The training technique should be firm, consistent and patient from the start. Tantrum and aggressive faints are common tactics that this breed uses to avoid learning or obeying a command. Lhasa Apso training can be difficult because of their behavior. They do tend to be stubborn and even house training may be a problem.

Lhasa Apso's have a moderate energy level so they do not demand a lot of exercise. Although they love to walk and scamper about, they equally enjoy regular opportunities to run free and play. They seem to be hearty in their health, but may suffer from kidney problems, skin conditions, allergies, and eye problems. Excessive water drinking can signal a kidney problem.

They have a long, thick coat that needs a lot of maintenance. People owning this breed in the south or warmer climates may choose to have the hair shaved short. Lhasa Apsos are average shedders with a long, dense coat that requires frequent grooming. To prevent mats and tangles, daily brushing is recommended, though the coat can be cut shorter to cut down on maintenance.

Puppies and adult Lhasas with short haircuts can usually go longer, but, as a general rule, should probably be bathed at least every two to three weeks. Puppies should be brushed and combed about three times per week so that they become accustomed to being groomed. Dogs that will be professionally groomed should start visiting the beauty parlor while they are still babies, so they can become accustomed to the noise and activity. Hair in ears needs to be removed to allow ears to breathe properly, and reduce the risk of an ear infection. Ears should be cleaned in order to remove ear wax build-up, and to reduce the risk of ear infection as well.

For someone who is interested in a great watchdog who can also be a wonderful, long-lived companion when well-trained, the Lhasa Apso is a great choice.