Lhasa Apsos contradict themselves in so many ways, but their pros certainly outweigh the cons

Lhasa Apso.

Lhasa Apso overview

(Image credit: Alamy)

Life expectancy: 12–13 years

Size: 10-11 inches (male); 9-10-inches (female)

Coat: Double coat

Temperament: Aloof, assertive, intelligent, alert, lazy

Exercise needs: Up to an hour daily

Origin/native country: Tibet

Originating from Tibet, the Lhasa Apso is a distinctive dog with excess facial hair and a long coat. They were originally bred by monks to help guard palaces and monasteries, which makes for a rather alert breed – perhaps surprisingly given they’re not particularly energetic and generally get their exercise in bursts.