Last Updated on September 18, 2023 by Fumipets
Lhasapoo (Lhasa Apso & Poodle Mix): All You Need To Know
The Lhasapoo, also known as Lhasa Poo or Lhasa Apso Poodle Mix, is a hybrid dog breed that results from crossing a Lhasa Apso with a Poodle, typically a Miniature or Toy Poodle.
This mixed breed is known for its charming appearance and friendly personality. Lhasapoos tend to be small to medium-sized dogs with wavy or curly coats that can come in various colors. They are often affectionate, intelligent, and make great companions for families and individuals alike.
Lhasapoo
A Poodle or Miniature Poodle and a Lhasa Apso were combined to create the Lhasapoo, which is also known as a Lhasadoodle. They are clever, amusing, and deeply devoted to their owners. The first Lhasapoos were produced in the 1990s, during the height of the miniaturized dog fad.
Breed Overview
Height: 9 – 13 inches
Weight: 10 – 20 pounds
Lifespan: 10 – 15 years
Colors: White, apricot, cream, patterned, brown, black
Suitable for: Excellent for families, good with children and other animals
Temperament: Loyal to the owner, friendly, agile, playful, and affectionate
They have huge eyes, small muzzles, and feathery ears that drop down. Their hair may be straight like a Lhasa Apso or wavy like a poodle. While Lhasapoos are excellent family dogs, they need thorough socialization and training before being housed with young children. They have a calm demeanor and simply need a little exercise every day. Lhasapoos are perfect for apartment life as long as they get adequate activity.
Lhasapoo Puppies
Lhasapoos are affectionate creatures who want human company, yet they are wary of strangers and need proper socialization when they are young. They are known for barking excessively and raising the alarm when outsiders come into your home. Yet, after a few years, they usually settle down and smile when they see familiar faces.
It’s important to note that these devoted dogs like always being near their owners and do not fare well when left alone for more than a few hours. Because of their high level of intelligence, they ought to be simple to socialize with both humans and other animals. They’re an excellent choice for families searching for a little dog,
Temperament & Intelligence of the Lhasapoo
While Lhasa poos are kind and loving creatures, they can become unduly possessive of their owners. The Lhasa Apso side of their family is responsible for their obstinate, protective temperament, but you may lessen it by enrolling your puppy in obedience school.
The poodle ancestry of the dogs gives them a high level of intelligence, and they like interacting with people. Lhasapoos, however, may become fearful and timid around strangers if left alone in an unfamiliar environment for a prolonged period of time (more than a few hours). A Lhasapoo may get agitated if left alone for more than a day, and it could take some time for it to warm back up to you once you return.
Are These Dogs Suitable for Families?
Lhasapoos are excellent family dogs, although they are friendlier to older kids. While they may still live close to toddlers, they behave better towards babies after completing obedience training. Lhasapoos are excellent security dogs that immediately warn the family of approaching outsiders despite their little size. While they like playing games with the family, they develop a strong relationship with only one individual. They are more prone to obey orders from their master.
Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?
Lhasapoos often get along well with other dogs, but in order to develop their socialization abilities, they must be introduced to dogs and other animals while they are still young. They are less tolerant of other creatures, but as the pets become older, they may learn how to coexist.
Things to Know When Owning a Lhasapoo
Food & Diet Requirements
Inadequate feeding may cause Lhasapoos to gain weight, but you can prevent this by giving them 12 cup to 1 cup of dry dog food each day. While they are pleading for food from humans, they love to show off their big puppy dog eyes, but try to resist the desire to feed them your leftovers. Human meals often include high concentrations of salt, sugar, and preservatives that may be detrimental to the long-term health of a Lhasapoo.
Exercise
Because of their almost limitless energy, Lhasapoos need to be active every day. They may stay healthy and active by going on walks with you and playing activities in the backyard. Running laps does not need a vast property. They like playing catch and other activities with the family since they are sociable creatures. Due to their size, you may play games with them indoors while marveling at their prodigious leaping skills. They can tolerate warm temperatures, but dislike working out in the rain or on a chilly day.
Training
When your Lhasapoo lives around kids and other animals, training is crucial. While they are not overtly hostile when they are doubtful about someone they become hesitant and uneasy. You should keep a tight eye on them when they engage with small children until they become used to the kids. Lhasapoos are quite simple to teach and pick up new instructions fast compared to other breeds of dogs.
Grooming
Depending on the dog’s ancestry, different breeds have different grooming needs, but in general, dogs need brushing at least three to four times a week. Compared to other breeds, lhasapoos are more prone to ear infections, therefore you should check and clean their ears once a week to avoid an infection.
Health and Conditions
Lhasapoos are subject to the health issues that Poodles and Lhasa Apsos have since they are a mixed breed. Asking questions about the dog’s ancestry and medical history is essential whether you adopt a dog or purchase one from a breeder. While it is more challenging to get information from a shelter, some individuals do so when they list the animal for adoption.
Serious Conditions:
Addison’s disease, Cushing’s disease, hypothyroidism, Von Willebrand’s disease, Legg-Perthes disease, renal issues, and epilepsy are just a few of the illnesses that Lhasapoos are prone to. A minimum of twice a year checkups for Lhasapoos guarantee that any medical issues are taken care of before they worsen.
Minor Conditions:
Lhasapoos with short muzzles may have breathing difficulties during activity and can develop brachycephalic airway syndrome. Cataracts, hip dysplasia, ear infections, allergies, and dental issues are some minor ailments. Frequent brushing helps stop deterioration and lessen foul breath, but you should ask a vet for advice on good dental care. Some animals react violently to brushing, so you may need help from someone else.
Minor Conditions
Brachycephalic airway syndrome
Cataracts
Hip Dysplasia
Ear infections
Allergies
Dental problems
Serious Conditions
Addison’s disease
Cushing’s disease
Hypothyroidism
Von Willebrand’s disease
Legg-Perthes disease
Kidney problems
Epilepsy
Male vs Female
While female Lhasapoos are smaller and lighter than males, the personality of the dog is more influenced by its ancestry than by its sex. Lhasapoos who exhibit more Lhasa Apso characteristics tend to be more wary of strangers and territorial in nature. Prepare yourself for an enthusiastic, devoted friend that almost ever leaves your side, whether you select a male or female.
3 Little-Known Facts About the Lhasapoo
1. Their Appearance Can Vary Significantly
While the Poodle and Lhasa Apso are almost the same sizes, they have quite distinct hair and facial structures. It’s difficult to predict a Lhasapoo’s mature appearance when you get one as a puppy. They could get the straight coat of a Lhasa Apso or the curly hair of a Poodle.
2. Ancestors to Lhasapoos Have an Intriguing History
Tibet is where the Lhasa Apso breed first appeared, and Lhasa is the name of this sacred city. They have been bred for 4,000 years, and in Tibet, only monks and nobles were permitted to do so. The Miniature Poodle, the Lhasapoo’s other ancestor, on the other hand, was a skilled circus performer up until the middle of the 19th century.
3. Lhasapoos Do Not Shed
Since Lhasapoos are hypoallergenic, they are perfect for anyone who has allergies or is sensitive to dog hair. In comparison to other breeds, they are extraordinarily clean and only need to be bathed when their fur gets dirty from outside play.
Conclusion
The Lhasapoo provides you with the best of both worlds with the bright mind of a poodle and the protective attitude of a Lhasa Apso. They like playing games, interacting with people, and are devoted to their owners wholeheartedly. They may survive for up to 15 years, despite being prone to a number of illnesses.
Be sure local Lhasapoo breeders are licensed and can give health and lineage records when you look for them. Examine the cleanliness of their facilities and the dog’s behavior. A Lhasapoo puppy may be underweight or afflicted with a disease if it does not behave like an uncontrollable bundle of energy. Lhasapoos need a lot of care and consideration, yet they devote their whole life to showing you their unwavering devotion and loyalty.
Sample Questions and Answers:
What is the typical size and appearance of a Lhasapoo?
Lhasapoos are typically small to medium-sized dogs, weighing between 10 to 20 pounds. They often have a wavy or curly coat that can be various colors, including black, white, brown, or a combination.
What is the temperament of a Lhasapoo?
Lhasapoos are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are often good with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs. They are also intelligent and eager to please, which can make them easier to train.
What kind of grooming needs do Lhasapoos have?
Lhasapoos typically have a low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting. They may need professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to maintain their coat’s health and appearance.
Are Lhasapoos prone to specific health issues?
Like all mixed breed dogs, Lhasapoos can inherit health concerns from their parent breeds. Common issues may include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye problems. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor their health.
What is the exercise requirement for a Lhasapoo?
Lhasapoos have moderate exercise needs. Daily walks and playtime in a fenced yard are usually sufficient to keep them happy and healthy. Mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys, can also help keep their minds active.