Lhasa Apso Health Problems & Prevention
Common health issues, symptoms to watch for, and how to keep your Lhasa Apso healthy.
Common Lhasa Apso health problems
Based on veterinary research and breed health studies
Inherited eye disease causing gradual vision loss leading to blindness, with no cure available.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Night blindness first
- Dilated pupils
- Reluctance to go in dark areas
- Bumping into objects
Prevention Tips
- Genetic testing before breeding
- No known prevention
- Ask breeders for DNA test results
- Adapt home for blind dog
A health condition that may affect some Lhasa Apso dogs based on owner reports.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Behavioral changes
- Physical discomfort
- Changes in appetite or activity
Prevention Tips
- Regular vet checkups
- Maintain healthy lifestyle
- Early detection through monitoring
A health condition that may affect some Lhasa Apso dogs based on owner reports.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Behavioral changes
- Physical discomfort
- Changes in appetite or activity
Prevention Tips
- Regular vet checkups
- Maintain healthy lifestyle
- Early detection through monitoring
Kneecap dislocation where the patella moves out of its normal position, common in small breeds.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Skipping or hopping gait
- Sudden leg lifting
- Reluctance to jump
- Locking of hind leg
Prevention Tips
- Maintain healthy weight
- Avoid excessive jumping
- Ramps instead of stairs
- Genetic screening for breeding
Spinal condition where discs between vertebrae degenerate or rupture, common in long-backed breeds.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Back or neck pain
- Reluctance to move
- Wobbly gait
- Paralysis in severe cases
Prevention Tips
- Use ramps instead of stairs
- Prevent jumping on/off furniture
- Maintain healthy weight
- Support back when lifting
Recommended Genetic Tests
Ask breeders for these health clearances before buying a puppy
As a small breed, Lhasa Apso dogs may be prone to:
Patellar Luxation
Kneecap dislocation, common in toy and small breeds
Dental Disease
Crowded teeth in small mouths lead to faster tartar buildup
Hypoglycemia
Low blood sugar, especially in puppies and small dogs
Tracheal Collapse
Weakening of windpipe cartilage, causes coughing
Lhasa Apso health timeline
What to focus on at each life stage to keep your Lhasa Apso healthy.
Puppy
0-1 year
- Complete vaccination series
- Discuss spay/neuter timing with your vet
- Socialization and training foundation
- Deworming and parasite prevention
- Establish dental care routine
Every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks, then at 6 and 12 months
Adult
1-7 years
- Annual wellness exams and vaccinations
- Dental cleaning as needed
- Maintain healthy weight
- Watch for early signs of breed-specific conditions
- Regular heartworm and flea prevention
Annually, more often if concerns arise
Senior
7+ years
- Wellness exams every 6 months
- Blood work and organ function screening
- Joint supplements and pain management
- Adjust diet for senior needs
- Watch for common age-related conditions in Lhasa Apso dogs
Every 6 months, with comprehensive bloodwork annually
Questions to Ask Your Vet About Lhasa Apsos
What breed-specific health screenings do you recommend?
Are there any genetic tests available for common Lhasa Apso conditions?
What is the ideal weight range for my Lhasa Apso?
When should we start joint supplements or senior care?
What early warning signs should I watch for, given this breed's health profile?
Do you recommend pet insurance for Lhasa Apsos?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common health issues in Lhasa Apsos?
How long do Lhasa Apsos typically live?
Are Lhasa Apsos prone to allergies?
How often should I take my Lhasa Apso to the vet?
Should I get pet insurance for my Lhasa Apso?
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