Are there any health issues to be aware of as a Lhasa Apso owner?

Allergies – Lhasa Apso are prone to allergies, so it is important that as an owner you plan their food and exercise around this and adapt them accordingly.

Cherry Eye – As the name suggests, this condition presents itself as a red or pink mass located in the bottom corner of the eye. This disease occurs when the third eyelid gland prolapses.

Eyesight Conditions – Eye diseases are common with this breed and your pet could experience progressive retinal in its lifetime.

Known as the bearded lion, the Lhasa Apso has a dense coat that often reaches all the way to the floor. The amount of grooming the Lhasa Apso needs will depend on whether you choose to keep the coat long or short. If you keep it long, you will need to invest in the help of a professional groomer as the requirements can be quite demanding. The long hair parts down the middle and sheds a lot so be prepared to care for your pet with daily brushing. Due to the length of the coat, frequent bathing is required to keep your pet smelling fresh.

While this breed’s history shows Lhasa Apso dogs accompanying their owners for all hours of the day indoors, they do require outdoor exercise if you want to keep them stimulated and entertained. A bored Lhasa Apso will turn to chewing and destructive behaviour so daily walks are essential.

The Lhasa Apso is a healthy breed that has a life expectancy that spans from 12 to 15 years.

A Lhasa Apso puppy can cost hundreds or thousands of pounds depending on where you buy one. It is always advisable to opt for a recommended breeder to avoid future health problems further down the line. This way you have access to all the medical history of not just your puppy but its parents too. 

The Lhasa Apso are small dogs which usually reach 11 inches in height. This is perfect if you want a dog that is well-suited to apartment style housing. 

While a fairly healthy breed, Lhasa Apso are prone to a number of common health problems, so having pet insurance can help to protect you against those unexpected vet bills. You can find out more about your cover options benefits with Asda Money Dog Insurance here.