The Lhasa Apso Dogs

A native of Tibet, the Lhasa Apso was originally kept in monasteries, giving a warning bark to monks if intruders managed to get past the huge Tibetan Mastiffs tethered outside. Also kept by families and traders, the breed was a bringer of good fortune, always a gift and never sold as it is believed to be the reincarnation of monks who have sinned in previous lives. First known in Britain in 1854, several were shown around the turn of the century but it was not until 1928 that the breed re-emerged, with direct imports from Tibet.

Only 25.4 cm (10 in) in height the Apso is really a large dog in a small frame, generally weighing 6.5—8.5 kg (14.5-19 lb). Although gay and assertive, the character of the breed is rather special and needs some understanding, being aloof with strangers. The extremely long double coat of virtually any color needs constant attention as it does not molt but mats naturally as protection against the elements.