Lhatese Dog Breed

The Lhatese, as a mixed breed, is not an official member of any breed group. Neither does any info exist about these hybrids' specific origin; while a Lhasa Apso-Maltese mix has probably existed naturally for a long time, no breeder or breed club has claimed its creation. Regardless, the Lhatese gained popularity during the designer dog "explosion" in the U.S. in the late 20th century. These friendly, loyal little dogs make great companion pets for families of any size, but they're especially well-suited for seniors or for those living in apartments.

A few Maltese-Lhasa Apso mix facts: they're toy-sized, averaging nine inches at the shoulders in height and nine pounds in weight; they have long, flowing coats that don't shed too much, but will require a lot of grooming; and they're highly energetic and will need consistent exercise.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning a Lhatese:

Some important Maltese x Lhasa Apso information: these hybrids are the offspring of two small breeds that were developed centuries ago to be personal companion dogs--so its no surprise that the Lhatese, like its parent breeds, is a loyal, enthusiastic companion dog as well.

This hybrid inherits some great traits from its parents: for one thing, it has a long, beautiful coat that's pretty low-shedding and is often considered hypoallergenic. The coats, which come in a variety of colors (usually white mixed with another color) will need frequent brushing and bathing to keep them in good shape, but they'll be gorgeous if properly maintained.

The Lhatese usually inherits protectiveness from the Lhasa Apso, too, so these hybrids generally make good watchdogs. Along with that confidence, though, will come some stubbornness. According to some Lhatese owners, these dogs can be fussy and quite "yappy," and may develop Small Dog Syndrome (excessive fussiness, attempts at dominance over other pets) if allowed. Owners will need to provide their Latese dogs with plenty of obedience training and socialization, starting during puppyhood if possible, to help them mature into friendly, well-balanced dogs.

A bit more Lhatese information: while not very strong, these hybrids will be quite energetic, and will need physical and mental stimulation throughout the day to keep them calm and happy.

Affectionate, intelligent, energetic, protective, and sometimes stubborn, the Lhatese temperament is one of activity and love. These hybrids will be very friendly and loving with family members; they're also quite sensitive and needy, and need a lot of attention! Without it they may suffer separation anxiety (excessive barking, destructiveness)--so Lhatese dogs are best with owners who can provide a lot companionship. A Lhatese will usually also get along well with kids and other pets, especially if they grow up together. In any case, providing your Lhatese with early training and socialization will help ensure the dog's proper behavior.

In regards to training: the Lhatese is generally an intelligent breed, and will learn things pretty easily--but if the dog inherits the Lhasa Apso's tendency for stubbornness, owners may have to try a few repetitions when teaching tasks, tricks, or commands. As with all dogs, firm, consistent, reward-based training methods are best.

Another good quality of the Lhasa Apso-Maltese mix temperament is this hybrid's watchdog abilities, which are usually good (especially if its temperament is more like the Lhasa). While a Lhatese is simply too small to really neutralize potential threats like intruders, the dog is alert and confident, and will definitely bark at unknown sights or sounds.

A Lhatese, due to hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred dog inherits the healthiest traits from its parent breeds), is very healthy. Even so, these dogs may suffer ailments common to the parent breeds including patellar luxation, various allergies, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and assorted eye issues (the most serious of which is Progressive Retinal Atrophy, or PRA). Potential owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or they can have their own veterinarians do the screenings.

Life expectancy for the Lhatese is 12-15 years.