Lhasatzu

Height: 9-11 in.

Weight: 12-20 lbs

Color: Bi & Tri-color: Black, white, brown, sandy, gray, honey, gold

Origin: United States

Lifespan: 12-15 years

Temperament: Intelligent, stubborn, energetic, playful, affectionate

Original Use: Companionship

The Lhasa Tzu, more commonly known as the Shih Lhasa, is a designer crossbreed between the Lhasa Apso and the Shih Tzu. While the Lhasa Tzu is a relatively new crossbreed, both parent breeds’ histories date back to ancient Tibet. They were bred together in an attempt to create a better, gentler, hypoallergenic version free of the health issues that impacted their purebred parents.

The Lhasa Tzu also inherited both of its parents’ stubbornness, so training will be a challenge. This is especially true for house training, but a consistent, firm, rewards-based approach will do the trick. They also have a feisty side, which can easily be tamed by early socialization with other dogs, pets, and people. Lhasa Tzus have a lot of energy and require short daily walks as well as interactive playtime to burn it off and meet their physical needs.

Lhasa Tzus are very sweet and gentle little dogs. They thrive on human interaction, and do well with families and homes of all shapes and sizes. Because they form such strong bonds with their owners they can become jealous of someone else or another dog is getting your attention. It goes without saying that these dogs suffer from separation anxiety, so leaving them alone is not an option.