Dog's Name & Age:
Rocky, 5 years old
In a Word, My Lhasa Apso Is...
A joy
Best Characteristics of the Breed
My Rocky is not too small, but he's not too big to pick up either
Most Challenging Characteristics of the Breed
He absolutely has a mind of his own and will NOT come when called, but runs
When, Where and How I Got My Lhasa Apso
I adopted my boy Lhasa from a Lhasa Apso Rescue Agency (Wee Rescue). After going through an interview, a home inspection, a background check and steep adoption fee, I brought home my timid boy and re-named him Rocky. Initially, he cringed and shied away when I tried to pet him and hid under the coffee table for a week. I've had him for 4 years now. He no longer cringes, but gives me a "happy dance" every time I come home - he jumps up in my lap and loves to cuddle on the sofa when watching TV. I give him massages and we dance together. He smiles often! He's no longer shy, but an excellent protector of our castle!
I'd Describe My Dog As…
Rocky has a mind of his own. He has free reign of the fenced backyard, but scratches on the front door to go out. I tether him with a plastic covered tie-out that lets him reach the bottom of the driveway, but no farther. If he slips out the front door untethered, he will absolutely NOT come when his name is called. He'll acknowledge that I am calling him, but then turn and run. Chasing him becomes a game of "keep away". Rocky will come back in when ROCKY decides to come home (usually after he's checked out the neighbor's yards). Also, he refuses to go outside to do his business if it's raining. I've invested in an indoor dog potty for such occasions.
Advice
- My Lhasa does well being home alone all day by himself, but he craves attention once I'm home but he's not a needy dog and is pretty independent.
- I'm not sure how he would react around children as there aren't any children in my household.
- When Rocky feels threatened or nervous, he hides.
- He's quiet for the most part, but when the doorbell rings, he's in protector mode and will alert you to any visitors.
- He is loads of fun to play with, but be aware - he's NOT a retriever. If you throw a ball, be prepared to go get it yourself. If I point to an object, Rocky looks at my finger, not to where I'm pointing!
