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Chi Apso |
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He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
Mexico <> Tibet -> U.S.A. | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen | |
This breed is also known as |
Lhasa Chi |
A brief presentation of the Chi Apso |
| Looking almost like a teddy bear, the Chi Apso is a gentle, loyal and playful companion dog that would make the ideal pet for new owners or busy families. The Chi Apso is a hybrid mix of a Chihuahua and a Lhasa Apso, two very friendly and courageous companion dog breeds. These long-haired beauties can fall on the heavier side of the small dog category, often weighing between 4.5 and 9 kilos. As these dogs have a long, dense double coat, it is often recommended that cooler, temperate environments are best suited to a Chi Apso. |
History of the Chi Apso |
| Descended from two pure-bred dogs, the Chi Apso is considered a creative dog and was probably born in the 1980s when this trend first took off. The Chi Apso is a gentle, affectionate dog that likes to be active in everything its family does. Not being a purebred, the Chi Apso cannot be a member of the American Kennel Club (AKC), but both parent breeds are members. The Chi Apso is recognized by the Designer Breed Registry and many other clubs and hybrid organizations. |
A little of the Chihuahua |
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| The Chihuahua is also of uncertain lineage. Known as a ceremonial dog and companion, the Chihuahua was considered a healer and was highly prized by the ancient Toltec people. This dog was called the Techichi and was believed to be able to guide a person to the other side after death. It ranks 30th on the list of popular dogs of the American Kennel Club, which it joined in 1904. | ||
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| Standard of the Chihuahua | ||
A little of the Lhassa Apso |
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| The Lhassa Apso originates from a holy city in Tibet known as Lhasa. They were originally bred as companion dogs for monks in monasteries and as sentinels for temples. Their ancestry is unclear, with theories ranging from them being descendants of northern breeds, Tibetan Terriers or even a type of mountain wolf. and today can still be considered very popular in monasteries. Carefully guarded by the monks, they have never been sold to others, but the Dalai Lama has occasionally offered them as gifts. Presented to Suydam Cutting and his wife by the 13th Dalai Lama in 1933, the Lhassa Apso made its debut in the United States, where it was entered in the American Kennel Club in 1935. | ||
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| Standard of the Lhassa Apso |
Appearance of the Chi Apso |
| Chi Apsos tend to have deep, dark, large eyes. The ears may be pendant-shaped and are usually folded down. Its muzzle is of medium length and is adorned with a round black nose. This small breed has small, well-defined teeth and the jaw may have a slight underbite, a common trait in the Lhasa Apso parent. Despite their small size, Chi Apso tend to have a long, robust body, making them one of the best-built small hybrids. Its legs are short but sturdy. Their coat is often dense, straight and soft to the touch. Coat colors can vary from golden, brown, beige, black and white. |
Temperament of the Chi Apso |
| The Chi Apso can be a very friendly, easily trainable dog. They are well suited to families with young children and other pets if well socialized. When it comes to strangers, a Chi Apso can be either very cautious and quiet, or very dominant or protective. Indeed, as with many small dogs, negative behavior is often reinforced by the owner's mistakes. Too much cuddling can lead to separation anxiety, cute mouths and excessive barking. Give the Chi Apso a chance to be social and experimental with its place at home and in its environment, such as parks and walks. The Chi Apso can sometimes be uncooperative when it comes to listening, especially if it feels stubborn but consistent, and a firm but gentle style of ownership will allow the Chi Apso to shine. |
Needs and activities of the Chi Apso |
| The Chi Apso's activity requirements are relatively low and it's not a demanding dog. They will, however, be eager to go for a walk whenever you suggest it. Short, brisk walks a few times a day are ideal outings for the Chi Apso, and he'll love to take part in a meet-and-greet session to put into practice what he's learned in obedience class. He loves toys and exploring. If you have a fenced-in yard, don't leave him unsupervised, as his small size can allow an unexpected escape under the fence. He can adapt well to an apartment, provided his inquisitive nature is satisfied with fresh-air breaks, park visits and interaction with the family. |
Maintenance of the Chi Apso |
| This hybrid requires moderate maintenance. Their coat should be brushed once a week to untangle knots and mats, the use of a pin brush and gentle brushing should do the trick and if necessary, use a comb to remove any remaining tangles. Owners often take their Chi Apso to the groomer every 4 to 7 weeks to tidy up the coat and give it a pleasing style. Bathing should be kept to a minimum, and only when necessary. We recommend brushing your Chi Apso's teeth daily, as small dogs are prone to tooth decay. Trim his nails every two weeks, and it's also a good idea to take a look inside his ears every week to make sure they're clean and free of moisture. |
English (United Kingdom) 
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