One of the cutest looking dogs around is the Lhasa Apso. The puppies especially are just irresistible but before one decides to purchase a Lhasa just because the kids are begging for one, there are some things that should be known about this particular breed. Historically, Lhasa Apsos were kept by the monasteries and nobility in Tibet as indoor watch dogs. They would sleep by their masters and with their high intelligence plus keen sense of hearing, would warn of any intruders. Lhasa Apsos were never bought or sold in Tibet. Instead, the Dalai Lama sent Lhasa Apsos in pairs to the emperors of China as gifts. High ranking visitors to Tibet also received them as gifts.
They are also referred to as the little bark sentinel lion dogs since fully grown Lhasa Apsos could resemble small lions with all their hair. Lhasa Apso dogs can also behave very much like lions exhibiting no fear when confronted by strangers or even larger dogs. Despite its small size with adult females reaching 12 to 16 pounds and adult males ranging from 14 to 18 pounds, they are extremely hardy as well as rugged. Having existed in the extreme temperatures of Tibet for centuries, they are well suited for and actually enjoy romps in the snow. They are also long lived. Both of my Lhasa Apsos lived past the age of fifteen years. I have heard reports of others living even longer. In appearance, the Lhasa Apso is very similar to the Shih Tzu breed. The face of a Lhasa Apso is not as flat as that of the Shih Tzu. It is believed
that the Chinese crossed the Lhasa Apso with the Pekinese which resulted in the Shih Tzu with its flatter face.
One thing that all prospective owners should definitely know is that having a fur ball like a Lhasa Apso will require lots of maintenance. The long hair of this breed requires constant care. If left unattended even for a few days, the Lhasa Apso hair will mat up in clumps that cannot be untangled. Their floppy ears are also prone to infections and their eyes can develop problems. If a prospective owner is not willing to make a commitment to the high maintenance of a Lhasa Apso, a shorter hair breed is recommended.
The Lhasa Apso is considered by some breeders to be more stubborn and difficult to train than other dogs. Do not let all that cuteness give you the wrong impression as they are the little lion dogs after all. This breed has been revered and highly regarded for centuries in Asia. The genetics may have resulted in some arrogance in them. One must be assertive in the proper training of the Lhasa Apso as this breed will test the new master. Lhasa Apsos 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. One of my Lhasa Apsos was quite friendly with visitors but the other one wouldnt even acknowledge their presence.
The breed may also not be appropriate with small children. Small children may get clumsy and accidentally poke Lhasas in the eyes or squeeze them too hard. Lhasas will not take this behavior lightly as they are not as patient with kids compared to say Labrador retrievers. Some Lhasas have been known to bite clumsy kids. Lhasa Apso dogs can be very good with children as long as they are treated with respect and care.
Despite these characteristics of the Lhasa Apso, they are excellent dogs to have as they can be one of the most loyal companions as long as it is recognized that they are high maintenance and may not be suitable for some families.
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Aug 02, 2010 | | Dogs
Anyone with a pet dog knows that these lovable creatures love to curl up snugly or stretch out nonchalantly at their favorite spot and snooze. Right after an energetic game of catch or past feeding time, dogs usually retreat to their own space and sleep to regain their strength and liveliness. Dogs love a warm, comfortable and quiet place to rest. Puppies love to be cuddled and usually dig the couch or his masters lap when about to nod off into dog dreamland. Thus, it is a necessity to have a nice, comfortable and perfectly-sized bed for your dog. Your doggy will absolutely appreciate their own cozy sleeping and napping spot. Dogs are creatures of habit and will typically sleep at the same spot, so a comfy dog bed at their own corner is a great gift that your dog will be grateful for.
1. Assortments Of Dog Beds
Of course you can create your own dog bed: a wooden box with a pillow or blanket is an easy and inexpensive alternative. There are, however, a huge assortment of dog beds available at pet supply stores that will perfectly suit your dog. Really now, Fido cant choose a bed for himself so here are some tips that can be useful when buying a dog bed.
2. Pick A Bed That Will Suit Your Dog’s Personality And Sleeping Habits
You should know the type of bed your dog would be most comfortable in. Dog beds come in many different styles like round nests, donut or cuddler beds, round fluffy balls or pillows, square flat mattresses and sofa shaped beds sized just right for a dog. Does your dog love to curl up into one big fur ball? Then a cuddler, similar to a pillow with sides, would be appropriate. If hes a sprawling sleeper, a larger mat would be excellent. Some dogs love to sleep on their bellies; a rectangular-style dog bed would be perfect for them.
3. Your Dog’s Size
The size of your dog is an important consideration. A small, thinly padded bed would be adequate for toy dogs like Chihuahuas and Shih Tzus. In comparison, Dobermans and Huskies would need larger, heavily padded beds where they can stretch out comfortably. Whatever size your dog is, pick a dog bed that is slightly larger than him. This is to allow room for growth, especially for puppies, and allow room for movement.
4. Easily Washable
Make sure the dog bed is made of removable and washable materials. It will definitely get dirty and smelly, so it is important that you can easily wash it anytime. Make sure too that the material is appropriate for the dog’s fur. Look for machine washable bedding if at all possible.
5. Get Cedar
- Look for a dog bed that is filled with cedar: cedar repels fleas
- Refillable cedar-filled dog beds will make your pet happier and less stressed
- Make sure you dont have an allergy to cedar
6. Location, Location, Location
Where will you put your dog bed? This is also an important consideration when choosing a bed for your pet so you can pick the right material. Some dog beds are more suitable for an indoor location like in the bedroom or living room instead of outdoors, like in a porch for instance. Climate and local weather are important factors to consider as well. Choose a dog bed that will provide warmth for your dog in winter and air circulation during summer.
7. Quality
Durability is also essential. The dog bed must be able to withstand Fidos penchant for chewing as well as his sharp claws. As we all know most dogs are messy, so make sure the dog bed you choose is up to the challenge. Pick a dog bed cover that is washable and made from durable fabric. Consider the color and style of the dog bed too. You might want your dogs bed to complement your walls or furniture. You should know that there are dog beds that can accommodate a variety of your dogs special needs. Heated dog beds and orthopedic foam dog beds are available and are excellent choices for older and arthritic dogs. Your dog will definitely appreciate his own bed in his own little space. The health and well-being of your dog will depend not only on diet or exercise but also on how much comfortable sleep and rest he gets.
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Dec 21, 2009 | | Dogs