Challenging to train assertive
Are Lhasa Apsos easy to train?
Honest answer: Lhasa Apsos are challenging to train. They're independent thinkers driven by their own instincts. Not impossible. But better suited to experienced dog owners who understand how to work with, not against, a strong-willed dog.
✗ Challenging to train
Best suited to: experienced dog owners · Key traits: assertive, confident, loyal
How easy are Lhasa Apsos to train?
Lhasa Apsos are honest work to train.
This doesn't mean Lhasa Apsos can't be trained. With the right approach, they absolutely can be. But it does mean you can't rely on the dog to meet you halfway. The training methodology matters as much as the effort you put in.
Training tips specific to Lhasa Apsos
- High-value treats only. Dry kibble doesn't cut it with a breed that has strong independent instincts. Use real chicken, cheese, or liver treats. The reward needs to be worth more than whatever else is competing for their attention.
- Short sessions, always ending positively. 5–10 minutes maximum. If a session isn't going well, step back to something the dog knows and end on a success. Never end on a failed command.
- Make it their idea. Lhasa Apsos respond better when training feels like their choice rather than a demand. Capturing behaviour (rewarding something the dog does naturally) is often more effective than repeated command drilling.
- Puppy classes are strongly recommended. Not optional with this breed. A good trainer who understands the breed's independent nature will give you techniques that actually work.
- Patience over persistence. Pushing harder when a Lhasa Apso resists rarely works. Step back, try a different approach, and come back to it another day.
What Lhasa Apsos find easiest and hardest to learn
Which commands do Lhasa Apsos pick up quickest?
Commands with an immediate, clear reward structure are usually the easiest for Lhasa Apsos. Sit tends to come relatively easily; reliable recall and stay at a distance require much more work.
What do Lhasa Apsos struggle with most?
Reliable recall is usually the hardest skill for Lhasa Apsos. Train recall from day one with very high-value rewards, and never let it become an optional command.
Full Lhasa Apso profile. Temperament, shedding, costs and more.
Read the complete Lhasa Apso breed guide →More questions about training Lhasa Apsos
Are Lhasa Apsos good for first-time owners?
Lhasa Apsos are better suited to people with prior dog-owning experience. The independent, challenging temperament is much easier to navigate when you've handled a strong-willed dog before. First-time owners who are very committed and willing to get professional help can absolutely make it work. But go in with clear eyes.
Do Lhasa Apsos respond well to puppy classes?
Puppy classes are strongly recommended for Lhasa Apsos. Not optional. Finding a trainer who has specific experience with independent or stubborn breeds makes a significant difference. Avoid classes that rely heavily on repetitive drilling; look for trainers using engagement-focused techniques.
How long does it take to train a Lhasa Apso?
Basic obedience commands (sit, down, stay, come) can typically be established in 4–8 weeks of daily short sessions for most dogs. With Lhasa Apsos, expect the longer end of that. And be prepared for it to take longer in distracting environments. Reliable performance in all environments. Which is what actually matters. Takes months of consistent practice.
More questions about Lhasa Apsos
Do they shed?Do they bark a lot?Are they good with kids?Are they good with cats?Are they hypoallergenic?Are they good family dogs?Are they aggressive?How long do they live?How much exercise?How much do they cost?Good for first-time owners?Good for seniors?Good in hot weather?Good in cold weather?Good guard dogs?Good running dogs?Can they be left alone?Good with other dogs?Good apartment dogs?Easy to groom?