Lhassa Terrier Dog Breed
(Lhassa Apso)

Tibet

The Lhassa Terrier is a luxury Tibetan breed that is today commonly seen in many parts far away from its native country. However, it is little seen in some countries and is commonly confused – at least in Europe – with the Shih Tzu, which is a more common type.

Generally speaking, both breeds come from a common ancestry, but the Lhassa Terrier is the one considered to stay pure and without breeding with other luxury Chinese dogs that were sometimes given as presents to the most notable Tibetan people. The name is derived from the word "goat" in the Tibetan language, due to its supposedly resemblance with long-coated Tibetan goats. In regards of the aspect, the Lhassa Terrier differs from the Shish Tzu mainly by its relatively greater size, a more robust build and a slightly longer snout.

The most common color is gold, a tone less common in the Shit Tzu; its height at withers is 22.5-25 cm for male dogs and a little less for female dogs. It weights 4-7 kilos.