Origin
The first time the Lhasa Apso appeared in the UK was in the twenties when these little Tibetan dogs were an immediate hit. They boast a fascinating history, having been the dogs of choice of both Tibetan holy men and nobles alike. Today, the Lhasa Apso is still a firm favourite with people not only here in the UK, but elsewhere in the world and for good reason. They are charming, affectionate, fun-loving little dogs with adorable looks and they make great family pets and companion dogs. They are known to be very tolerant around children and other dogs as long as they have been well socialised from a young age which in short means the Lhasa Apso is an all-round lovely, little dog to share a home with.
The Lhasa Apso was originally bred in Tibet where they were highly revered by holy men and nobles. It is thought the breed has been around for at least 2000 years and that these little, alert dogs were used to guard Tibetan monasteries and temples. They were highly prized because in their native Tibet, they were considered to be reincarnations of the Holy Lamas. A Lhasa Apso was never sold they were, however, offered as gifts and for those who were fortunate enough to be given one of these charming dogs, it was considered the greatest of honours.
The breed first arrived in the UK in the twenties and were an immediate hit as soon as they were exhibited at a dog show. At first people thought they were just other hairy Oriental dogs and as such they were called "Lhasa Terriers". However, they were soon to be recognised as a unique breed in their own right with the Tibetan Terrier being just one of their ancestors. The first breed club was established in the UK in 1933.
Today, these little dogs are still as popular with owners all over the world thanks to their great looks and kind natures. However, they are considered a rare breed in their native Tibet.
