Overview
Average lifespan
Lhasas have been known to live up to 17 years of age.
Average height & weight
25cm to 28cm
6kg to 7kg
Care requirements
Compatibility with other pets
Very good, but being an assertive breed they like to show dominance over other dogs and so care should be taken if introducing another dog into the family.
Care requirements
The coat is double with a moderate undercoat that provides good insulation that is cast out for summer when a thinner undercoat grows. The topcoat is of a hard texture and serves as a weatherproof outer jacket. The good fall of hair over the eyes is protection against dust, wind and intense glare found in the Tibetan climate. Regular grooming is a necessary task, providing the essential bloom in a long coated breed, but the task can almost be made a game for both the owner and dog. They can be also clipped and look just as adorable.
Being a small dog they are ideal for the metropolitan area, but they are by no means softies, they are an all weather strong breed but they do like to be indoors. Years of close contact with people in the temples and as a house dog has developed their lovable personalities.
Decision time
Ideal owners
They are highly intelligent, good with children, assertive with a free and jaunty movement, but wary of strangers and can be sensitive to the moods of their owners.
Decision time (resources provided by Kennel Club):
Before making a decision on getting a puppy, here are some articles you might find helpful:
What do I need to consider when thinking of buying a puppy?
How do I find the right breeder, what should I ask them?
How do you check if the breeder is reputable?
What to ask your vet prior to buying a puppy?
Where to find dogs (resources provided by the Kennel Club):
Breeders
Adoption
Shelters
Find out about important information about purchasing dogs from pet shops and traders