| Height | 10-11 inches (male), slightly smaller (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 12-18 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Confident / Smart / Comical [1] |
| AKC group | Non-Sporting Group [1] |
| Origin | Tibet [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 83 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The Lhasa is generally not a couch potato and is adept at self-exercise. They will race around an apartment to run off energy, entertain themselves in a fenced yard, or take their owners on a brisk walk. Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise. [1]
Grooming
Long hair or puppy cut? Both require regular maintenance, and this is a choice for the owner to make. Lhasas in a puppy cut or other clip still should be brushed regularly and bathed between visits to the groomer. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The Lhasa Apso is generally a robust, healthy dog. The most serious health problem in the breed is hereditary kidney dysfunction, which can be present in mild to severe form. There is no reliable test to detect carriers. Prospective owners should seek out experienced, conscientious breeders who are aware of the condition and remove affected individuals from their breeding programs. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: No recommended health tests. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Lhasa Apso in 1935. [1]
- It ranked No. 83 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 65 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Lhasa, Lion Dog.” [1]
- The AKC lists Tibet as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 1 recommended health screening for breeding dogs, such as No recommended health tests. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 1/5)
Common questions
How long do Lhasa Apsos live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Lhasa Apso get?
AKC breed information lists height 10-11 inches (male), slightly smaller (female) and weight 12-18 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Lhasa Apso?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Lhasa Apso, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.