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Old 04-21-2008, 07:30 AM   #15
A Yuppie Puppie
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Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: New Mexico
Posts: 28
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I was the top Lhasa Apso breeder in the U.S. for more than 25 years. Lhasas and small children DON'T MIX. Any reputable breeder will discourage or refuse to sell a Lhasa to anyone with children under 10 years of age.

Although Shih Tzus and Lhasas are closely related, they are NOT that similar in temperment. Shih Tzus are much more mellow and much happier and do much better with children.

This is taken directly from the American Lhasa Apso Club website (American Lhasa Apso Club)
"As a general rule, Lhasas tend to attach themselves to the adults in the family rather than to the children. Because children smell differently from adults, some dogs can become confused about where the kids fit into the family "pack." Furthermore, small dogs of all breeds tend to be cautious, and sometimes fearful of pre-schoolers because they are unsteady on their feet, move quickly, and do unexpected things. Experienced breeders generally have a good idea which puppy in a litter will do best in a family environment with children. Lhasa puppies that are raised with children, and where the interaction is closely supervised, can become successfully integrated into the family.

All play between a Lhasa puppy and young children should be guided by the responsible adult to prevent problems. Chasing, teasing, and tug-of-war games encourage a puppy to bite. Instead, hide and seek or fetch will help young kids and puppies learn to trust each other. For more information, read Child-proofing Your Dog by Brian Kilcommons."

I would strongly recommend another breed for a 14 month old child.

Last edited by A Yuppie Puppie; 04-21-2008 at 07:32 AM.
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