Understanding the Health of Your Lhasa Apso

Quick answer

The Lhasa Apso is a hardy and spirited companion, but like all purebred dogs, it carries a set of health predispositions that owners should monitor. By staying alert to changes in your dog's movement, vision, and energy levels, you can manage these conditions effectively. Early intervention is the most important factor in maintaining your dog's quality of life.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

This condition involves the gradual degeneration of the cells in the back of the eye. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. Owners often notice that their dog seems hesitant in low light or bumps into furniture in dim rooms. Your veterinarian will use an ophthalmoscope to examine the retina for thinning or vascular changes. While there is no way to stop the progression, early diagnosis helps you prepare for your dog's eventual loss of vision and adjust your home environment to keep them safe.

Hip Dysplasia

This is a condition where the hip joint does not fit together perfectly, leading to wear and tear. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You might notice your dog bunny-hopping when running or showing reluctance to climb stairs. A veterinarian will perform a physical exam and use X-rays to assess the fit of the hip joint. Maintaining a lean body weight is the most effective way to reduce the stress on these joints over time.

Patellar Luxation

This occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal groove. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. Owners may observe their dog skipping a step or holding a back leg up for a few seconds before returning to a normal gait. A veterinarian can feel the kneecap move during a physical exam. If the luxation is frequent, the vet may discuss ways to manage the discomfort or surgical options to keep the joint in place.

Lissencephaly

This is a rare neurological condition involving the structure of the brain. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. Symptoms often manifest as seizures or unusual behavioral changes. Diagnosis is complex and typically involves specialized imaging like an MRI. Because this is a serious condition, any unexplained neurological signs require immediate professional assessment to determine the best course of supportive care.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

This condition involves the discs between the vertebrae becoming damaged and pushing into the spinal space. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You might notice your dog arching its back, crying when picked up, or showing weakness in the hind limbs. A veterinarian will perform a neurological exam to locate the issue. This is an urgent matter that requires immediate veterinary attention to prevent permanent nerve damage.

Chronic Kidney Disease

This condition, often associated with renal dysplasia, involves the kidneys losing their ability to filter waste properly. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. Owners often notice an increase in thirst and urination, or a decrease in appetite. Blood tests and urinalysis are the standard ways to evaluate kidney function. Early detection allows for dietary management that can significantly improve your dog's comfort.

Hydrocephalus

This is the accumulation of fluid within the brain. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. Signs can include an enlarged head shape, lethargy, or difficulty with coordination. A veterinarian will use ultrasound or imaging to confirm the presence of fluid. This is a serious condition that requires prompt veterinary management to address the pressure within the skull.

Entropion

This is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the surface of the eye. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You will likely notice your dog squinting, tearing excessively, or pawing at the eyes. A veterinarian can confirm this by observing the eyelid position. If left untreated, the friction can cause painful ulcers on the cornea, so surgical correction is often recommended.

Mitral Valve Dysplasia

This is a congenital abnormality affecting the heart valves. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You might notice your dog tiring easily during walks or developing a persistent cough. A veterinarian will listen to the heart for a murmur and may use an echocardiogram to see the structure of the valve. Managing this condition involves regular monitoring to ensure the heart continues to pump efficiently.

Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease

This is a common heart condition where the mitral valve thickens over time, leading to a leak. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. Similar to other heart issues, you may notice a cough, reduced stamina, or difficulty breathing. A vet will assess the heart through auscultation and imaging. Consistent, low-stress exercise and regular checkups are key to managing the long-term health of the heart.