Lhasa Apso health: what owners should know

Lhasa Apsos are generally long-lived, but the breed is known to be predisposed to several eye problems (including progressive retinal atrophy, cherry eye and dry eye), kneecap luxation, a hereditary kidney disease, and skin issues. Their slightly short face can also make them sensitive to heat and, in some dogs, to breathing effort during exertion.

Good breeders have eyes checked by a veterinary ophthalmologist, evaluate kneecaps and hips, and can explain how they approach inherited kidney disease in their lines. Daily face care and a clean coat help prevent skin and eye irritation. Call your vet if you see a red swelling in the corner of an eye, a dull or sticky eye surface, noticeably increased thirst or urination, or a limp that comes and goes.