Those of us lucky enough to have a Lhasa Apso in our lives, know that these beautiful dogs make ideal family pets. Lhasas are gentle and loving animals who will devote themselves to their family. However, they do have one slight flaw in an otherwise perfect character.
This particular flaw is a seriously stubborn streak. I have done some research into this subject and discovered that Lhasa Apso dogs are not thought to be the worst offenders in this area. In fact they are not even in the top twenty of the most stubborn dogs. I found this difficult to believe so decided to check it out further.
What is stubbornness?
It’s “having or showing dogged determination not to change one’s attitude or position on something especially in spite of good arguments or reasons to do so.” The adjective “dogged” means “to have the qualities of a dog (mostly in a negative sense).”
Having it their way
Historically then, all dogs were considered to be stubborn! For this reason, let’s concentrate on the stubborn nature of the Lhasa Apso.
The first thing that I have to say is that Poppy is a remarkable dog. She is intelligent and resourceful, particularly when it comes to securing treats and extra food whenever possible. The fact is that we are a soft touch and Poppy knows that and exploits it.
She is also very stubborn and will do her utmost to get her own way in most things. However, she is also a well trained and obedient dog who will almost always comply with our instructions. Eventually, that is.
Bath time
A good example of this is bath time. We all have to cope with this on a regular basis. If only dogs were more enthusiastic about taking a bath. How easy it would be?
Unfortunately, Poppy loves to roll about in the garden dirt or run around on a sandy beach but does not enjoy getting cleaned up. Given her stubborn nature and her hatred of baths it always becomes a battle of wills.
It is a situation that your dog never wins but also a situation that your dog will contest to the end. It is a fact that I will always finish this exercise soaking wet and desperate for a cup of tea. Surely dogs must feel better if they are clean, you’d think!? If anyone has the answer to our bath time blues we would love to hear from you.
Training a stubborn dog
There’s also the issue with training that many Lhasa Apso dog owners will be all too familiar with. They are wonderful and playful little animals, but they have a fierce sense of pride which comes across a little arrogant sometimes.
That means they aren’t the easiest little guys to train. They very much like something to be their own idea and they’ll complete a task but in their own time. We often have situations where you ask Poppy to do something but at her own deliberate pace.
We think this is her way of being stubborn and independent. With enough persistence however, even the most stubborn of dogs can be obedience trained. Just remember to have lots of patience and get their favourite training treats to hand!
Best friends forever
Having had experience of various dog breeds over time, Lhasa Apso dogs certainly do possess a very stubborn streak more so than most.
But they also devote themselves fully to their owners and you’ll certainly have made a best friend for life. Every dog has their own personality and you’ll be the best judge of their character.
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