Group 9 · Companion dogs
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small Tibetan breed that once lived as a watchdog in monasteries. It is independent, loyal and somewhat reserved with strangers, with a long coat that needs daily care.
Health
These examinations come from the official breeding programme for the breed Lhasa Apso by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen (Animal Welfare Flanders). They apply to the puppies’ parents.
In short
Both parents must have 1 examination:
- 1 DNA test
The breeding programme also recommends 5 further examinations.
A sample for DNA tests can be taken either with a mouth swab or by a blood sample. To carry out the examinations, the breeder uses a vet or a laboratory. For each examination below, you can see from what age and how often it must be done. Ask the breeder for the results of both parent dogs.
Mandatory examinations (1)
-
Prekallikrein deficiency (KLK)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- KLKB1: c.988T>A
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
Recommended examinations (5)
-
Degenerative myelopathy (DM)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- SOD1: c.118G>A
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Progressive retinal atrophy (IMPG2)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- (IMPG2 LINE-1 insertion)
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Chondrodystrophy and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
X-ray once from 2 years
Official description
- Method
- X-ray: lateral (C1 to Cd1 must be assessable)
-
Multidrug sensitivity (MDR1)
DNA test once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- ABCB1: c.228_231del
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Patellar luxation (PT)
Kneecap examination once at least 1 year
Official description
- Method
- palpation of the kneecap
The breeding programme also contains the breeding advice for each examination and general rules on inbreeding, the number of matings per stud dog and the use of frozen semen. You can find these in the official document.
Source: breeding programme Lhasa Apso, Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, last updated on 09/09/2025.
View the official breeding programme (PDF, in Dutch)
A breeding programme reduces the risk of hereditary conditions, but does not offer a 100% health guarantee.
Translation of the Dutch breeding programme by Puppymakelaar. In case of any difference, the official document prevails.
This breed profile is not a breed sheet within the meaning of the Flemish Breeding Decree (Fokkerijbesluit). The legal rules for breeding this breed are set out in the official breeding programme.
Considerations when buying
According to the breeding programme approved by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, these examinations must be carried out on both parent dogs: Prekallikrein deficiency (KLK). The breeding programme also lists these recommended examinations: Degenerative myelopathy (DM), Progressive retinal atrophy (IMPG2), Chondrodystrophy and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), Multidrug sensitivity (MDR1) and Patellar luxation (PT). According to the breeding programme, BOAS is a hereditary condition for which no generally recognised scientific test is currently available. Dogs with severe breathing problems, too short a stop and narrow nostrils (stenotic nares), diagnosed by a vet, are not used for breeding. A puppy with a Flemish pedigree comes from parent dogs bred according to this breeding programme. Ask for the results of both parent dogs and compare them with the overview above. A Lhasa Apso is happy with daily walks and play. A long coat needs brushing every day; many owners choose a short trim. Keep the hair around the eyes short or tied up.
Questions for the breeder
- Have both parent dogs undergone all the mandatory examinations in the breeding programme, and may I see the results?
- Will the puppy receive a Flemish pedigree from a recognised breed registry association?
- How are the puppies socialised before they go to their new home?
Breed-specific challenges
The Lhasa Apso is independent and watchful, and often reserved with strangers. It learns best with patience and a kind, consistent approach. The breeding programme also mentions BOAS for this breed: ask the breeder about the breathing of the parent dogs.
More background
General guides that help you understand this breed information and choose well.
