Lhasa Apsos are a small breed of dog originating from Tibet. They were bred as indoor sentinel dogs in Buddhist monasteries, alerting the monks to any intruders. Today, Lhasa Apsos make wonderful family companions with their alert and lively temperament. However, their strong-willed nature means they require dedicated training from an early age. When selecting a Lhasa Apso puppy to bring home, look for one that is eager to greet you and unafraid of new things. A fearful or aggressive pup may develop behavior issues later on. You'll also want to check that the eyes are clear, without discharge or tearing, and the nose is free of discharge. Clean ears are also a good sign of health. Move on if you notice any potential health issues.
Once you've selected a happy, healthy Lhasa Apso puppy, it's time to start training. The first 16 weeks of a puppy's life are critical for shaping behavior. With patient, positive reinforcement training, you can curb unwanted habits and instill good manners to set your puppy up for success.
Preparing For Your Puppy's Arrival
Before bringing your Lhasa Apso puppy home, take time to properly puppy-proof your house. Lhasa Apso puppies are naturally curious and investigative. You'll want to safeguard any dangerous or valuable items that may get chewed or knocked over. Secure loose electrical cords, pick up small objects from the floor, and block access to certain rooms if needed.
You'll also need to shop for basic supplies like a crate, collar and leash, food and water bowls, and appropriate food. Crates provide a cozy den for naps and downtime. Collars, leashes, and harnesses are necessary for training and walks. Choose a high quality puppy food formulated for small breeds. Stock up on puppy pads for potty training as well.
The day your puppy comes home should be quiet and low-key. Confine them to a small space at first, like a kitchen, bathroom or puppy pen. Introduce family members slowly so as not to overwhelm. Set up a designated potty spot outside right away and praise heavily when they go there. Consistency builds good habits.
House Training Your Lhasa Apso
House training is one of the most important things you'll teach your Lhasa Apso puppy. Puppies do not have full bladder control until about 6 months old, so accidents are inevitable. But you can minimize mess by starting training as soon as you bring your puppy home.
Puppies need to go out frequently, as soon as they wake up, after playing, and after meals. Take your puppy to their potty spot and use a command like "Go potty." Praise and treat when they go in the right place. Supervise constantly or confine your puppy when you can't watch them. Crates and puppy pens are useful for this.
Clean all accidents thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate odor. Don't punish your puppy for accidents. This can inhibit them from going in front of you. Simply interrupt any indoor accidents with a firm "No" and immediately take them outside. Patience and consistency are key. Expect the process to take a few months.
Crate Training Your Puppy
Crate training utilizes a puppy's natural instinct to seek out a safe, enclosed den. It's an extremely useful technique for potty training and preventing destructive behavior. Crate training also promotes safety when you can't supervise your pup.
Choose a crate that allows room for your puppy to stand, turn around and lie down. Place it in a central living area so they don't feel isolated. Introduce the crate slowly by tossing treats inside and feeding meals there. Keep initial crating sessions very short to build a positive association.
Never use the crate to punish your puppy. Keep it a comfortable, secure retreat. Avoid long crating periods to start and give potty breaks before and after. Most puppies can hold their bladder one hour per month of age. Crate praise or favorite toys to make it positive. With time, your Lhasa Apso will learn to settle in their crate when needed.
Socialization For Lhasa Apso Puppies
Socialization is the controlled, positive introduction to new experiences in a puppy's environment. It's a critical part of Lhasa Apso training, as they can be wary of strangers and unfamiliar situations without it.
Expose your Lhasa Apso puppy to many sights, sounds, smells, places, and people starting at 7-8 weeks old. Let them explore new surfaces, hear appliances and traffic noises, and meet neighborhood dogs and friendly strangers. Always pair new experiences with high-value treats to build positive associations.
Avoid overloading your puppy by forcing interactions or flooding them in public places. Watch their comfort level. Socialization should be composed of brief, controlled exposures in calm environments. Puppy kindergarten classes are great for this. Keep socialization positive to ensure your Lhasa Apso pup grows into a well-adjusted, non-reactive adult dog.
Obedience Training Techniques
Lhasa Apso puppies are independent thinkers, so obedience training is a must. Proper training will instill important commands and strengthen your bond with your pup. Use only positive reinforcement techniques, as harsh corrections can cause mistrust or aggression.
Begin with basic cues like "Watch me," "Sit," "Down," and "Stay" using food lures and rewards. Keep sessions very short to start—just 5 minutes, multiple times per day. Increase duration gradually as your puppy's attention span allows. Consistency is key; make sure all family members use the same commands.
Practice obedience skills in various locations and around distractions to proof them. Challenge your Lhasa Apso puppy by slowly adding elements that require more focus. Use high-value rewards for greater motivation. Aim to teach loose leash walking, a solid "Leave it" cue, and a reliable recall above all else. These skills provide the basis for real world good behavior.
Dealing With Unwanted Behaviors
Lhasa Apso puppies are naturally curious and active. This inevitably leads to some unwanted behaviors like nipping, barking, digging and chewing. While frustrating, remember that these antics are perfectly normal puppy activities. The key is redirecting your puppy to better alternatives.
If your puppy nips while playing, yelp loudly to mimic a wounded playmate. Then redirect to a chew toy. For demand barking, turn away and reward silence. Discourage digging by filling in holes and restricting access. Provide plush toys for chewing urges. Finally, ensure your puppy is getting sufficient physical and mental exercise to avoid boredom.
Accidents, chewing or other destruction should never be punished harshly. This can harm your bond. Simply interrupt the behavior calmly with a firm "No," remove your puppy from the situation, and redirect to appropriate objects and locations. Patience and consistency will improve behaviors over time.
Grooming Requirements
The long, silky coat of the Lhasa Apso requires regular brushing and grooming. Puppies need early exposure to grooming so they learn to tolerate it. Make sessions positive with praise and treats.
Get your Lhasa Apso puppy used to having their paws, ears and teeth handled. Gently brush their coat starting from a very young age. Use a slicker brush and metal comb to keep their hair tangle-free. Trimming around the feet, hocks and anus keeps those areas clean.
Bathing should be done monthly or as needed using dog-safe shampoo. Dry thoroughly and brush out the coat afterwards. Many pet parents opt to utilize professional groomers periodically as their Lhasa Apso matures. Regular grooming prevents painful matting and skin issues down the line.
Nutrition Tips For Lhasa Apso Puppies
Proper nutrition supports healthy growth and development in Lhasa Apso puppies. Look for a premium puppy food formulated specifically for small breeds. Because of their small size, they have high metabolisms and need more calories per pound.
Feed set scheduled meals rather than free-feeding. This helps with potty training. Following package guidelines, start with 3-4 meals a day. Gradually decrease to two daily feedings by about 6 months old. Provide constant access to fresh water.
Avoid overfeeding, as Lhasa Apsos gain weight easily. The ribs should be slightly visible on puppies. Too much weight strains developing joints. Treats should comprise no more than 10% of total calories. Stick with their puppy diet until at least 1 year old before transitioning to adult food. Consult your veterinarian if you have questions on diet.
Exercise Needs
Despite their small size, Lhasa Apso puppies need daily exercise to develop properly and expend energy in positive ways. The exercise requirements of Lhasa Apsos vary based on their age.
Young Lhasa Apso puppies need only short play and training sessions of 15-20 minutes. This prevents overexertion of developing joints. Increase sessions gradually to 30-60 minutes as they mature. Low impact exercise like obedience work, fetch games and leashed walks are ideal for puppies under 1 year old.
Around 12-18 months old, Lhasa Apso exercise needs increase to 60+ minutes of activity daily. Take your adolescent Lhasa Apso on longer walks, jogs or hikes. Interactive playtime works their mind and body. Always allow proper rest between vigorous exercise periods. Proper exercise helps avoid problem behaviors caused by boredom and excess energy. An exercised Lhasa Apso is a happy, well-behaved companion!
Importance of Veterinary Care
Regular veterinary care is vital to raising a healthy, well-adjusted Lhasa Apso puppy. Arrange an appointment as soon as you bring your new puppy home for an initial exam. Your vet will confirm they are physically sound and set them up on a deworming and vaccination schedule.
Lhasa Apso puppies require a series of core vaccines for common diseases like parvovirus, distemper and rabies. Vaccination starts as early as 6 weeks and continues until 16-20 weeks old. Annual boosters maintain immunity. Intestinal parasites are also extremely common in puppies, so regular deworming is essential.
Schedule wellness exams with your vet at least annually. Promptly inform your vet of any concerning symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lameness or lethargy. Early treatment of illness greatly impacts prognosis. Establishing a relationship with your vet provides your pup with a medical home base for life.
Puppy Proofing Your Home
Before bringing home your Lhasa Apso puppy, take time to properly puppy-proof your house. This keeps your rambunctious little bundle of fur safe while protecting your belongings. Start by surveying at puppy level—anything within reach requires securing.
Scan for hazards like exposed wires, toxic plants, and loose objects that could be swallowed or knocked over. Lhasa Apsos love to chew, so remove shoes, books, remote controls and other enticing items. Trash cans should have tight lids. Kitchen and bathroom cabinets may need temporary barriers.
Check for any spaces a tiny pup could squeeze into and get stuck, such as behind appliances. Consider blocking access to certain rooms like a laundry room. Create an appropriately sized confinement area with a crate, pen or baby gates when you can't supervise. Puppy-proofing in advance prevents problem behaviors down the road.
Establishing A Routine
Structure and routine are comforting for Lhasa Apso puppies adjusting to a new home. Sticking to a schedule with regular feeding times, potty breaks, training sessions, playtimes and naps fosters security. Puppies thrive when they know what to expect.
Set designated times for waking, potty trips, meals, training, play, and crated rest periods. Take your puppy outside immediately upon waking and 15-20 minutes after eating. Requiring them to potty before activities and praise for going in the right place will ingrain good habits.
Be patient and consistent with the routine every day. Don't overwhelm your Lhasa Apso puppy by introducing too many new experiences at once during their initial weeks at home. Get them comfortable with their schedule first; then begin socialization experiences. The power of routine will pay off with a confident, well-adjusted pup.
Common Lhasa Apso Puppy Issues
While raising a delightful Lhasa Apso puppy has countless rewards, it also comes with some common challenges. Being prepared for potential issues can help you handle them successfully should they arise.
Potty training accidents are virtually inevitable with puppies, so have patience and the right cleaning tools on hand. Many Lhasa Apsos are also prone to separation anxiety. Crate training, providing interactive toys when alone, and avoiding overly long absences can help.
Barking is another common habit, stemming from their watchdog roots. Reward quiet behavior and provide plenty of exercise and training. Lhasa Apsos can be assertive chewers as well. Redirect chewing urges onto appropriate toys. Should any unwanted behaviors persist, don't hesitate to consult an accredited trainer.
The key to overcoming common puppy issues like these is understanding normal dog behavior and responding with patience and gentle guidance. With time and consistency, you'll have your Lhasa Apso puppy well on their way to becoming a happy, polite member of your family.
Bonding With Your Lhasa Apso Puppy
Forming a close bond with your Lhasa Apso puppy should begin from the moment you bring them home. This sets the foundation for a lifelong friendship. Spend plenty of quality time interacting with your puppy through snuggles, playtime, training sessions and more.
Hand feed your puppy part of their meals when possible. This helps them associate you with their source of food. Take them on frequent brief outings for socialization during the critical imprinting stage. Make grooming and handling a regular part of your routine.
Encourage your Lhasa Apso puppy to follow you around the house. Hide treats around the room for them to find. Incorporate engaging obedience work and fun puzzle toys too. Interactive play stimulates important bonding neurochemicals.
Respond promptly and patiently to your puppy's needs. Soothing them when frightened, praising potty success, and redirecting unwanted behavior shows you are their trusted guide. Consistent care strengthens the bond that makes training success and lifelong companionship possible.
Preparing For Adolescence
Between 6-18 months of age, your Lhasa Apso pup transitions from baby to teenager. New behavioral and training challenges can pop up as they test boundaries like a rebellious adolescent. Being prepared helps you gently steer them in the right direction.
Remain consistent with house training. Adolescent dogs may try to mark territory inside or have more frequent accidents. Restrict access and stick to a routine. Hormones may also make some dogs more easily excitable or reactive during this stage. Maintain controlled socialization opportunities to prevent fear and aggression issues.
You may experience a temporary reversal in obedience as your Lhasa Apso enters adolescence. Keep training sessions upbeat and continue reinforcing the basics. Increase exercise to burn off excess energy. For problem behaviors, revisit and reinforce puppy lessons using positive methods. With understanding and patience, you’ll both make it through the teenage phase!
Signs Your Lhasa Apso Puppy Is Adjusting Well
The first weeks in a new home with a new family can be overwhelming for a Lhasa Apso puppy. But with time, care and consistency, your pup will settle in and adjust to their new life. There are many signs that indicate your Lhasa Apso is on the right track.
One great indicator is enthusiasm at mealtimes. A puppy with a good appetite is feeling comfortable. Regular bathroom habits are also a positive sign, as pups may hold it when very stressed. Interest in play, toys and training show they are bonding with you.
Puppies who sleep soundly through the night are adjusting well. Barking to request time out of their crate or pen means they are ready for more freedom under supervision. Soft body language, relaxed facial expressions and tail wagging reflect a pup feeling secure.
While every pup adjusts at their own pace, you can ease the transition through patience and meeting their needs. With time, the hard work will pay off as your Lhasa Apso puppy comes out of their shell in their new forever home.
Preparing For Your Lhasa Apso's First Night Home
The first night after bringing home your Lhasa Apso puppy can feel stressful for both pup and pet parent. Proper preparation helps ease the transition so you both get rest. Focus on meeting your puppy's basic needs while providing a sense of security.
Tire out your Lhasa Apso before bedtime with play. Take them on a brief walk if old enough. Feed them a late dinner; then take them outside to relieve themselves. Providing a stuffed Kong or chew toy in their crate gives comfort. Place the crate in your room overnight so they can hear you.
Expect some crying or barking during initial nights. Never remove your Lhasa Apso from their crate if vocalizing, or they'll learn crying gets them attention. You can soothe them with your voice but avoid engaging directly. Their first night sets the precedent for the future.
With patience and care, your Lhasa Apso puppy will settle in comfortably. Maintain the same comforting nighttime routine moving forward. You'll both be resting peacefully before you know it.
Lhasa Apso Puppy Supplies
Preparing for a Lhasa Apso puppy means having essential supplies ready before their arrival. Stock up on these Lhasa Apso puppy basics to give your new family member everything they need:
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Crate – A properly sized crate provides a cozy personal space for sleeping and downtime. Get one with a divider to adjust room as your puppy grows.
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Leash and collar or harness – Choose a lightweight leash and a collar or harness made for small breeds. Harnesses prevent trachea damage from pulling.
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Food and water bowls – Look for sturdy, non-tip bowls sized for small breeds. Stainless steel or ceramic work well.
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Puppy food – Pick a high-quality dry food formulated specifically for small breed puppies. Feed a consistent diet.
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Bed – Provide a soft blanket or dog bed that can fit inside the crate. This gives your puppy comfort.
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Potty pads – These are useful for indoor potty training until your puppy can go outside reliably.
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Toys – Interactive puzzle toys and chews help puppies expend energy and prevent problem behaviors. Rotate to keep them interested.
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Grooming supplies – A slicker brush, comb, nail clippers and dog-safe shampoo keep your Lhasa Apso’s coat neat.
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Baby gates – Use gates to block off areas and keep your adventurous puppy out of trouble.
Shopping ahead for needed supplies makes the transition smoother when you bring your Lhasa Apso puppy home. Be prepared for their arrival and set them up for success.
First Trip To The Vet
An initial vet visit is essential when you first adopt or purchase your Lhasa Apso puppy. This first appointment sets up a relationship with your vet and allows a thorough hands-on health assessment.
Expect the visit to include weighing your puppy, checking vitals like temperature and heart rate, and a physical exam of eyes, ears, mouth, skin, limbs and body condition. Providing vaccine and deworming records helps determine what preventatives are needed next.
Vaccinations and deworming will likely begin at this appointment to protect your vulnerable puppy. Blood or fecal tests may screen for parasites or anemia. Discuss your puppy’s diet and activity needs with your vet as well. Address any questions or concerns.
End the appointment on a positive note by having your vet provide a treat and affection. This creates a pleasant association with future visits. Follow your vet’s advice on scheduling follow-up booster appointments to keep your growing Lhasa Apso puppy protected.
Common Health Problems
Lhasa Apsos are generally robust small dogs, but certain health issues can crop up. Being proactive helps minimize risks down the road.
One common problem is eye issues like cherry eye or dry eye. Keep the face and eyes clean. Monitor for excessive tearing or redness. Breathing issues can also occur due to narrowed nostrils or an elongated soft palate. Pay attention for snoring, loud breathing or exercise intolerance.
Dental disease is prevalent in the breed. Provide dental chews and regular vet cleanings. Knee problems like luxating patellas sometimes affect smaller Lhasa Apsos. Limit jumping on puppies to reduce injury risk.
Following vaccine and preventative guidelines, feeding a quality diet, exercising appropriately and maintaining vet care minimizes the chance of health problems. Learn your Lhasa Apso's normal behavior to detect any issues needing veterinary attention early on.
Picking Up A Lhasa Apso Puppy
When bringing home your Lhasa Apso puppy, choose a neutral location to initially meet like the breeder's yard. Let them sniff you at their own pace without overwhelming them. Move slowly and calmly.
Once they seem comfortable, gently pick up your Lhasa Apso puppy. Support their chest with one hand and hindquarters with the other. Lift smoothly, bringing them close to your chest in a supported sitting position.
Keep the first ride home relaxed and controlled, with soft music playing. Bring along a blanket and toy from the breeder for familiar smells. Stop every 30 minutes to let your puppy stretch their legs, sniff and relieve themselves.
Carry your Lhasa Apso puppy to your yard for their first home potty break. Use minimal stimulation and keep home introductions gradual at first. Reward relaxed behavior generously to start your relationship off right.
Bringing Puppy Home Checklist
Preparing for your Lhasa Apso puppy's arrival involves more than just buying supplies. Creating a safe, comfortable environment will give you both the best start. Use this bring-home checklist:
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Puppy proof your home by securing hazards and blocking off certain rooms. Prevent accidents.
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Set up an exercise pen or confined space with food, water, pads, and bedding when you're away.
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Doggy-door train if providing outdoor access. Supervise outdoors.
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Purchase and read through training books specific to small dogs or companion breeds.
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Have a vet selected and first appointment scheduled. Acquire medical records from breeder.
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Tell neighbors about your incoming puppy to avoid nuisance complaints.
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Look into puppy kindergarten classes starting at 8-12 weeks old.
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Request time off work or recruit help for the first week if possible. Puppies need constant supervision.
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Stock up on enzymatic cleaner, paper towels, and trash bags for potty mishaps.
Take time to adequately prepare your home and schedule before bringing home your Lhasa Apso. A smooth transition benefits you both.
Interacting With Your Lhasa Apso Puppy
Early interactions with your Lhasa Apso puppy lay the foundation for your relationship. Keep sessions positive by letting them approach you first and working at their pace. Meet their needs consistently.
During initial weeks home, hold, hand feed, groom and train your Lhasa Apso puppy in short, structured sessions to start bonding. Provide interactive toys and take them exploring on a leash. Reward engagement with you.
Keep handling gentle but purposeful. Discourage biting and jumping up politely and consistently. Use food rewards and praise to reinforce wanted behaviors like eye contact, name response, and tricks like “sit” and “down.”
Avoid overly stimulating your Lhasa Apso puppy with excess handling, new environments, or boisterous strangers. Let them approach new things cautiously. Always supervise play and meet needs promptly. Setting a nurturing leadership tone now prevents issues later.
Lhasa Apso Puppy Development Stages
Understanding the developmental changes your Lhasa Apso puppy will undergo allows you to better support their needs at each stage:
0-3 months: Rapid growth and bonding. Puppies are fully dependent on their pet parents. Provide stimulating toys and positive handling experiences. Start leash training.
3-6 months: Enhance coordination through training and socialization. Housebreak consistently. Introduce basic commands like "sit" and "down." Maintain supervision.
6-12 months: Fear periods and teething happen now, so continue socialization carefully. Work on control skills and reinforce training. Neuter or spay around 6-9 months.
1-2 years: Sexual maturity. May show more independence, dominance or reactivity. Maintain structure, exercise, and training. Gradually allow more freedom.
Each puppy develops at their own pace, but using age as a guideline for meeting their needs at different life stages allows you to support their growth into a happy, well-rounded adult Lhasa Apso.
Providing Mental Stimulation
Active and inquisitive Lhasa Apso puppies thrive when provided with mental stimulation along with physical activity. Bored puppies often find trouble!
Provide interactive puzzle toys that dispense treats or kibble as your puppy manipulates them. Place dry kibble in a paper bag, boxes, or food-dispensing balls for them to manipulate and "hunt" their food.
Take safe explorations outdoors on leash, allowing them to sniff, dig, and investigate new environments. Change up walking routes to provide variety. Hide treats indoors for your Lhasa Apso to seek out.
Incorporate new commands, tricks and behaviors into frequent 5-10 minute training sessions. Practice in new locations. Learning and mastering skills exercises their mind.
Provide variety, novelty and a sense of purpose. A mentally enriched Lhasa Apso puppy will be happier and better behaved as they expend energy using their brain. Mental stimulation pairs perfectly with physical activity.
Dealing With Separation Anxiety
Lhasa Apso puppies form tight bonds with their owners. But left unchecked, separation anxiety can become a behavioral issue. Watch for signs like chewing, soiling, pacing or barking when left alone.
Prevent separation problems by conditioning your puppy early to accept alone time. Give them engaging toys or chews when leaving. Vary your routine so they don't associate triggers like grabbing keys with you leaving.
Keep greetings and departures low key; excessive fanfare can increase anxiety at being left. Use baby gates to confine your Lhasa Apso versus crating if they show distress in confinement. Pheremone plug-ins may have a calming effect.
Never comfort your Lhasa Apso or return if they vocalize when left. This reinforces the behavior. Instead, make alone time rewarding. With time and patience, your puppy will gain confidence when left briefly. Increase duration gradually. Consult a trainer if anxiety persists.
Choosing A Vet
One of your first priorities with your new Lhasa Apso puppy should be establishing a relationship with a veterinarian. Your vet will be your healthcare partner for the duration of your dog’s life.
Look for an accredited veterinary practice that has experience with small dog breeds. Tour the facility to check for cleanliness, organization and a friendly staff. Discuss wellness, vaccination, and emergency protocols.
Choose a vet that takes time to patiently address your questions and concerns. They should be readily available for appointments and consultations. Location and office hours that work for your schedule are also key.
Ask trusted friends with dogs for vet recommendations. Search online reviews and licensing information as well. Consider looking for a vet with interests in dentistry, dermatology or orthopedics to meet your Lhasa Apso’s potential needs. Finding the right vet takes some diligence but is well worth it.
Preparing For Your Puppy's Arrival
Bringing home a Lhasa Apso puppy is an exciting time! Proper preparation helps make their transition smooth and sets you both up for success.
Puppy proof your house by securing hazards and blocking access to some rooms. Prevent accidents and chewing of belongings. Gather all needed supplies like food, bowls, collar and leash.
Read up on house training, socialization, and basic training methods. Have a vet selected and first appointment made. Give your work schedule and household routine some thought to make time for puppy raising.
Stock up on potty pads, paper towels and enzymatic cleaners for the inevitable accidents. Have comfy blankets and a schedule for soothing the first few nights home.
With planning and organization, you’ll be ready to welcome your Lhasa Apso puppy into their new forever home and family. The preparation you put in now will pay off in the long run with a happy, adjusted companion.
Lhasa Apso Breed Overview
Before committing to a Lhasa Apso puppy, it helps to understand the general traits and needs of the breed. Here's a quick overview:
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Origin: Tibet. Historically alert watchdogs for Buddhist monasteries. Requires dedicated training and socialization.
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Size: 10-11 inches, 12-18 lbs. Sturdy small breed. Minimal exercise needs but active indoors.
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Coat: Long, heavy, double-coat. Requires extensive grooming to prevent matting. Shedding is minimal.
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Colors: Black, white, honey, slate, brown, golden. Markings vary.
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Personality: Devoted, playful, assertive. Strong attachment and tendency toward separation anxiety.
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Training: Independent thinkers requiring patient, positive reinforcement methods. Socialization is critical.
The lively and alert Lhasa Apso thrives as a loyal companion to those willing to invest time into training, grooming, and relationship-building. Do your homework to determine if this vocal and spirited little dog is a good fit.
Preparing Your Home
You’ve selected your Lhasa Apso puppy. Now it’s time to prepare your home for their arrival. Setting up a safe, comfortable environment allows your puppy to settle in smoothly.
Safety is top priority. Survey your home from a puppy’s perspective and look for hazards to secure. Block off balconies, cover electrical outlets, and keep cords out of reach. Remove any toxic houseplants as well.
Puppy proof each room by keeping belongings picked up and storing shoes, books, and other items your curious pup may chew. Childproof latches can protect cupboards. Look for small spaces a tiny pup could get stuck in.
Set up an exercise pen or containment area. Include potty pads, food and water bowls, toys and a comfy bed. This safe space will be useful when you can’t supervise your puppy.
A few adjustments help make your home ready to welcome a Lhasa Apso puppy. Their safety and success depends on the environment you provide. Take time to prepare.
Supplies For A New Puppy
Preparing for the arrival of your Lhasa Apso puppy means having supplies on hand to cover their basic needs. Stock up on these puppy essentials before bringing them home:
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Premium puppy food – Look for a small breed formula with appropriate protein and fat levels to support growth.
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Bowls – Durable stainless steel or ceramic bowls sized for a small puppy work well.
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Collar or harness – A lightweight puppy collar or step-in harness keeps tags secure without choking.
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Leash – Choose a 4-6 foot leash ideal for training and control. Avoid flexi leashes.
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Crate – Should be just large enough for puppy to stand, lie down and turn around.
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Bedding – Plush blankets provide comfort and warmth for sleeping. Wash regularly.
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Potty pads – Useful for indoor potty training until your puppy can go outside reliably.
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Chew toys – Provide appropriate outlets for teething and chewing urges. Rotate toys to maintain interest.
Shopping ahead helps set your Lhasa Apso puppy up for health and behavior success starting day one! Be fully stocked and prepared.
Preparing Children For A New Puppy
Adding a Lhasa Apso puppy to a home with small children requires some preparation to ensure safe, positive interactions. Teach children how to act responsibly around a puppy beforehand.
Instruct children to move slowly and speak softly when approaching the new puppy. No grabbing fur, tails or paws. Supervise all interactions 100% of the time. Puppies scare easily when squeezed or chased.
Show kids how to lure the puppy for a treat, stroke gently under the chin, and hold out toys for play. Remind them not to bother the puppy while eating, sleeping or going potty.
Establish household rules like no allowing the puppy in a child’s bedroom or on furniture. Agree that children can only pet or play with the puppy after asking an adult. Consistency is key for puppy training.
Preparing kids for appropriate handling and setting boundaries allows the whole family to welcome your Lhasa Apso puppy safely. Education leads to positive habits.
Signs of a Healthy Puppy
When selecting your Lhasa Apso puppy, look for these signs of good health and sound temperament:
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Clear eyes without redness, discharge or tearing
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Clean ears without debris, odor or irritation
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Moist nose without nasal discharge
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Even puppy tooth alignment with nocrowding
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Shiny coat free of patches or sparse fur
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Strong limbs that move fluidly without lameness
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Round belly without bloating or tucking
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Alert, friendly personality showing no fear
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Solid poop and regular potty habits
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Good appetite and energetic play
Choosing the most vigorous puppy with no obvious health issues sets your Lhasa Apso up for a long, healthy life as your companion. Be picky and opt for quality!
House Training Challenges
House training a Lhasa Apso puppy poses a few unique challenges. Their small bladder capacity and tendency to closely bond with owners means more frequent accidents. Patience and consistency are key.
Puppies under 6 months old lack full bladder control. Take them out every 30-60 minutes, upon waking, after play, and following meals. Confine them when you can’t actively supervise.
Lhasa Apsos are prone to separation anxiety. This leads to soiling when left alone at first. Use baby gates and confinement, not crates, for short alone times to start.
Thoroughly clean all indoor accidents with an enzymatic cleaner to remove odors. Never punish your puppy for mistakes. Simply interrupt any accidents and immediately take them outside. Praise rewards build habits.
Stick to a consistent feeding and potty schedule. Allow your Lhasa Apso to settle into their new home before introducing too much freedom. Consistency and close supervision are vital during the house training process.
Best Toys For Lhasa Apso Puppies
Lhasa Apso puppies are bold, confident little dogs full of energy. Interactive toys are the best outlet for play urges and curiosity during their crucial development stage.
Look for mentally stimulating puzzle toys where kibble or treats can be “foraged out” through manipulation. Food puzzle toys provide exercise for the mind and body.