Lhasa Apsos are prone to atopic dermatitis, a skin condition caused by food, environmental, or contact allergies. Grooming not only gives you a good opportunity to check your dog's skin for signs of irritation, redness, and dryness, but it can also remove potential allergens from the dog's coat. Use hypoallergenic, scent-free shampoos, conditioners and conditioning sprays on your Lhasa Apso to prevent a possible allergic reaction to these products. Consult with a veterinarian if you notice signs of skin irritation.
Concerning Your Lhasa Apso's Health
The Lhasa Apso originated in Tibet and were first bred to act as sentinels for Buddhist monasteries. As such, this small breed is known for its large bark and its fearlessness. The Lhasa Apso is long lived, with life expectancy ranging from 12 to 14 years and some dogs living until 20 years. The breed is generally healthy but can be prone to various eye problems; sebaceous adenitis, a skin condition; and renal cortical hyperplasia. Recent DNA studies have shown the Lhasa Apso to be among the 14 most ancient dog breeds in human history.
Primary Health Conditions of the Lhasa Apso
Owners of a Lhasa Apso should be aware of several eye conditions to which the breed is prone, some of which are hereditary and others environmental. These dogs are known to be susceptible to hereditary progressive retinal atrophy, in which the retina is subject to deterioration. Dogs to be bred should be screened for the condition. The Lhasa can also develop cherry eye, in which the tear duct erupts to the eye surface. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or dry eye, is a condition in which tears are under-produced, and the eyes become painfully itchy, swollen, and dry. Treatment depends upon the severity of the condition; many cases can be managed with medication and artificial tears; some conditions require surgery.
Secondary Health Conditions of the Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is predisposed to a condition of the skin called sebaceous adenitis, in which the dog’s immune system attacks their sebaceous glands. The result of this is a silvery dandruff, a dull, brittle coat, skin lesions, and often a musty smell to the dog. Sometimes the disease can be treated with antibiotics, but no guaranteed cure is available. Treatment with mineral oils, medicated shampoos, and ointments is common. The Lhasa Apso can also be prone to renal cortical hyperplasia. In this hereditary disease the kidneys are improperly developed and cannot correctly filter toxins in the blood. There is no cure, apart from preventing breeding among dogs who have the condition, so keeping the dog well hydrated and of proper weight is the best management option.
Lhasa Apso Exercise and Walking Needs
The Lhasa Apso has moderate walking and exercise needs, so short walks and time to play in the yard usually suffice for this dog. They can also get quite a bit of exercise in the home or apartment through play with their owners. The dog enjoys chasing and fetching balls or other toys. These dogs are not generally prone to weight problems, but regular exercise will increase their overall health and lifespan.
Lhasa Apso Nutritional Needs
The Lhasa Apso can be a picky eater, so finding a food that they eat readily may take a few tries. Given this proclivity, the dog does not tend to become overweight, although weight issues may occur in some dogs. Given its long coat and tendency toward skin conditions, foods that feature vitamins A and E as well as the Omega fatty acids are recommended by some dog nutritionists.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to groom a Lhasa Apso?
To groom a Lhasa Apso, you should first brush its long, dense coat regularly to prevent matting and tangling. Trim any excess hair around the ears, paws, and hindquarters to keep the coat in shape. Clean their eyes and ears regularly to prevent infections. Bathe them occasionally using a dog-specific shampoo. Trim their nails regularly to prevent overgrowth. It's necessary to start grooming your Lhasa Apso at a young age, so they become accustomed to it. Regular grooming helps maintain their coat and skin health.
How often should a Lhasa Apso be groomed?
A Lhasa Apso should be groomed every 4-6 weeks to keep its coat healthy and prevent matting. It’s best to bathe them every 2-3 weeks. However, regular brushing in between bathing sessions is recommended to maintain the coat's appearance and remove loose hair. The frequency of grooming may also vary based on the dog's lifestyle, age, and overall health.
Should Lhasa Apso be shaved in summer?
It is not necessary to shave a Lhasa Apso in the summer, as their long coat provides natural insulation and helps regulate their body temperature. However, some owners choose to trim their Lhasa Apso's coats for ease of maintenance during the summer months. It's important to note that shaving a Lhasa Apso's coat can lead to skin irritation and sunburn and can also change the texture and growth pattern of the coat, making future grooming more difficult. If you're considering trimming your Lhasa Apso's coat, it's best to consult a professional groomer for advice on how to do it safely and properly.
What kind of brush do you use on a Lhasa Apso?
For a Lhasa Apso, a slicker brush and a metal comb are the most commonly recommended brushes. The slicker brush is ideal for removing tangles and loose hair, while the metal comb can be used to smooth the coat and remove any remaining knots. You may also use a rake brush to help remove any mats or tangles, but use caution, as the teeth on a rake brush can be too long and cause discomfort or injury to the dog. Some pin brushes are double-sided these days with a bristle brush on the other side, making them ideal for breeds like Lhasa Apso. The pin side works best on tangles, while the bristle side is ideal for smoothing its coat. Always use gentle strokes when brushing a Lhasa Apso and avoid pulling on their skin or hair.
