The Oldest Lhasa Apso Breed Explained

The Lhasa Apso breed has a rich history that dates back over 1,000 years. This ancient dog has been a loyal companion to Tibetan royalty and monks.

The Lhasa Apso's origins can be traced back to the Himalayan region, where they were bred to be watchdogs and companions. They were highly valued for their loyalty and ability to detect intruders.

Despite their small size, Lhasa Apsos are known for their bold and fearless nature. They were often used as guard dogs in Tibetan monasteries, where they would sound the alarm to alert monks to potential threats.

Their long, flowing coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

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The Lhasa Apso has an ancient history dating back to 8000 BCE in Tibet, where small, shaggy dogs were known to be kept as companions and watchdogs.

These little dogs were often presented as gifts to visiting dignitaries and were believed to bring peace and prosperity to homes in which they lived.

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As the breed spread around the world, they became increasingly popular and were eventually brought back to the West by British explorers and travelers in the early 20th century.

The Lhasa Apso was initially referred to as the "Lhasa Terrier", but it was later distinguished from the Tibetan Terrier, a leggier and longer-headed breed.

The breed gained a firm foothold in the United States in the 1930s and has been a popular companion dog ever since.

Legend has it that the brave little Lhasa Apso inspired the ancient Tibetan saying: "If the snow-lion stays in the mountains, it is a snow-lion; if it comes down to the valleys, it becomes a dog."

Tibetan Buddhists believe that the souls of lamas are reborn as Lhasa Apso dogs in the stage of reincarnation just before they are reborn as humans.

The American Kennel Club recognized the Lhasa Apso breed just two years after it was gifted to a couple in the United States in 1933 by the Dalai Lama.

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The Lhasa Apso is a breed with a rich history, dating back centuries. It was one of the first breeds to be used as a companion dog.

For many years, Lhasa Apsos were kept by Tibetan monks in their isolated monasteries, serving as both companions and watchdogs. They were considered to be of great spiritual importance.

In Tibet, the breed was jealously guarded and didn't reach other countries until the late 19th Century. The Lhasa Apso was recognized by The Kennel Club in 1908 and was initially classified as a Lhasa Terrier.

The breed was credited with spiritual powers and was believed to bring prosperity and fortune to its owner. It was also believed that when monks died, they might be reincarnated as one of the monastery dogs.

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The Lhasa Apso is a smart and confident dog that takes time to become comfortable around strangers.

Their flowing, luxurious hair requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

With proper care, Lhasas can live up to 29 years, as recorded in the oldest known Lhasa Apso.

Lhasa Apsos typically live for 16 years, but some may live up to 17 or 18 years with optimal care.

Maintaining a proper diet, tracking health and wellness, and following veterinarian advice are crucial for a long and healthy life for these dogs.