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The Lhasa Apso, originating in the lonely and isolated reaches of the Himalayan mountains, reflects its Tibetan heritage in many characteristic ways. These sturdy little mountain dogs, relatively unchanged over the years, are fastidious by nature and are natural watchdogs. They are seldom pets but companions, often clowns but never fools. In Tibet, the Lhasa's primary function was originally that of a watchdog inside the palace, where its intelligence, acute hearing and natural instinct for identifying friend from stranger made it uniquely suited for this role, which it now performs in any size home. The breed is calm and deliberate, although suspicious of strangers. Extremely devoted to family, Lhasas do not change loyalties easily and are less protective away from their home environment. They tend to be one-person dogs and are best suited to homes with older children that will handle them carefully. Slow to mature, they do not reach their prime for three to four years. They age gracefully and keep their youthful look and attitude well into their teens. Their independent and stubborn nature requires patient understanding, and resists harsh or strict discipline. The Lhasa Apso exhibits a regal attitude when looking its best. This is a high-maintenance dog that requires daily grooming to keep the long, heavy, dense coat shiny and tangle-free.

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