The Lhasapoo, a delightful crossbreed between the Lhasa Apso and Poodle, is well-loved for its charming personality and adorable appearance. This medium-sized dog combines the affectionate nature of the Lhasa Apso with the intelligence and trainability of the Poodle, making it a fantastic companion for various lifestyles.
When thinking about bringing a Lhasapoo into your home, there are several important factors to consider. The Lhasapoo is a crossbreed between a Lhasa Apso and a Poodle, combining the unique characteristics of both parent breeds. Here are some important aspects to consider:
Grooming Needs: Lhasapoos possess a curly or wavy coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Expect to spend time brushing their fur several times a week and consider regular trips to a professional groomer.
Size Variability: As a crossbreed, the size of a Lhasapoo can vary widely depending on whether they take after their Lhasa Apso or Poodle parent.
Energy Levels: Lhasapoos are generally active and playful dogs, thanks to their Poodle lineage. They need regular exercise, which means daily walks and playtime. Be prepared to dedicate time to their physical activity needs to keep them happy and healthy.
The Lhasapoo is a hybrid breed resulting from a cross between the Lhasa Apso and the Poodle. The origins of both parent breeds can be traced back to ancient times. The Lhasa Apso, considered a sacred dog in Tibetan culture, was bred by Tibetan monks as a companion and watchdog. Known for their distinctive long hair and jovial nature, they guarded monasteries and homes.
Lhasapoos are a delightful hybrid breed created by crossing a Lhasa Apso and a Poodle. With their unique combination of parent breeds, Lhasapoos boast a charming and distinct appearance that often captures the hearts of dog lovers.
Lhasapoos are typically a small to medium-sized breed. They usually weigh between 5 to 10 kg and stand at a height of approximately 25 to 36 cm at the shoulder.
The weight of a Lhasapoo can vary significantly depending on the size of its parents. Generally, Lhasapoos will weigh between 5 kg for smaller individuals and can go up to 10 kg for larger ones.
Lhasapoos come in a variety of colours, thanks to their diverse parentage. Common colours include cream, black, brown, apricot, and a mix of these shades. The coat may exhibit various patterns as well, such as brindle or spots, contributing to their unique appearance. The texture of the Lhasapoo's coat is also notable—it's often soft and wavy, resembling a Poodle's coat, which may require regular grooming to prevent matting.
Lhasapoos, a delightful mix of Lhasa Apso and Poodle, are known for their affectionate and friendly nature. They tend to thrive in a family environment, displaying a playful attitude that can charm just about anyone around them.
While Lhasapoos may not be traditional guard dogs due to their friendly disposition, they are alert and will bark to notify their owners of unfamiliar sounds or visitors, which can provide an early warning system.
This breed enjoys communicating, but they typically do not bark excessively. They tend to vocalise when excited or if they perceive a threat, although they are more likely to greet guests with excitement than aggression.
Thanks to their Poodle heritage, Lhasapoos are generally intelligent and can be trained easily. They respond well to positive reinforcement and enjoy the process of learning new tricks. Early socialisation and consistent training are key to ensuring they grow into well-mannered adults.
Lhasapoos typically have a lifespan of around 12-15 years, depending on genetics, care, and overall health.
Lhasapoos are moderately active dogs that require about 30-60 minutes of exercise daily. This can include walks, playtime, and interactive toys to keep them mentally stimulated.
Lhasapoos, being a crossbreed between Lhasa Apsos and Poodles, can inherit health issues from either parent breed. Common health concerns include:
Hip dysplasia
Eye issues, such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy
Allergies or skin conditions
Ear infections, due to their floppy ears
Patellar luxation (dislocated kneecap)
Heart disease
Lhasapoos have a curly and dense coat that requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and mats. It is recommended to brush them at least two to three times a week and consider professional grooming every couple of months to maintain their coat.
Dental hygiene is crucial for Lhasapoos. Regular teeth brushing and dental chews can help prevent periodontal disease. Aim to brush their teeth several times a week.
A high-quality dog food suitable for their age, size, and energy level is essential. Always consult with a veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations, particularly if your Lhasapoo has specific health concerns or dietary restrictions. Moderation is key when it comes to treats.
Early socialisation is important for Lhasapoos. Expose them to various environments, people, and other animals. This will ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted and confident dogs. Training classes can also be beneficial for this purpose.
As a rough guide in pricing:
Cost to buy: roughly £800-£1,500 for a well-bred Lhasapoo puppy.
Other costs (Vet, Food, grooming, etc.): approximately £80-£130 per month.
You can read our general buying guide here, with the most important thing being going to view your Lhasapoo puppy, seeing it with its mother, and checking the quality of the breeder.
A big thank you to the following sources which have helped to shape this article:
Pets4Homes: https://www.pets4homes.co.uk/dog-breeds/lhasapoo/
AdoptaPet: https://www.adoptapet.com/s/adopt-a-lhasapoo
Dog Breed Info:: https://dogbreedinfo.com/lhasapoo.htm
