Lhasa Apso 31

The Lhasa Apso is a small dog breed that originated in the Himalayan Mountains a thousand years ago. They were the luxuriously-coated interior sentinels and guardians of palaces and Buddhist monasteries. The dog breed got its name from Tibetan folklore.

According to Tibetan folklore, a mythical Snow Lion is the protector of the country. The Lhasa Apso, also known as a “bearded lion dog” is considered the earthly representation of this mythical protector. Lhasa is also the name of Tibet’s sacred city. That paired with Apso, which means “long-haired dog”, gives the Lhasa Apso its name.

They also have been associated with the Dalai Lama for centuries. A naturalist who traveled the world named Suydam Cutting is credited with establishing the Lhasa Apso in the United States from dogs bred and gifted by the Fourteenth Dalai Lama. The American Kennel Club recognized the Lhasa Apso in 1935 as a member of the Terrier Group. They were reassigned to the Non-Sporting Group in 1959. They tend to be most commonly found living as beloved family companions and can also be found working as therapy dogs.