Lhasa Apso Colors & Coat Guide
All recognized Lhasa Apso colors, coat types, genetics, and how color can impact pricing and health.
Lhasa Apso Colors Overview
Lhasa Apso coat colors are governed by a complex interplay of genetics. Lhasa Apsos come in virtually any color, with golden, honey, and grizzle being most common. Color often changes significantly from puppyhood to adulthood, especially in darker dogs..
Understanding which colors are standard versus non-standard helps buyers make informed decisions. Color should never be the primary selection criterion—health and temperament come first.
All Lhasa Apso Colors
The Lhasa Apso is recognized in 7 color variations. Standard colors are those accepted by major kennel clubs for conformation showing, while non-standard colors may occur naturally but are not eligible for the show ring. Both standard and non-standard colored Lhasa Apsos make equally wonderful companions.
Standard vs Non-Standard Lhasa Apso Colors
Standard colors (7): Golden, Black, White, Grizzle, Slate, Honey, Parti-Color. These colors are accepted by the AKC and other major kennel clubs for conformation competition. Standard-colored Lhasa Apsos are typically priced within the normal $800–$1500 range.
How Color Affects Lhasa Apso Price
| Standard colors | Normal pricing ($800–$1500) |
| Rare/unusual colors | Premium pricing (+$450–$750) |
While color can influence the price of a Lhasa Apso puppy, prospective owners should prioritize health testing, breeder reputation, and temperament over coat color. A responsibly bred Lhasa Apso in a common color with comprehensive health clearances is a better investment than a "rare" colored puppy from untested parents. The base price range for Lhasa Apsos is $800–$1500, with color-based premiums adding to that range for certain variations.
Lhasa Apso Coat Type and Grooming
The Lhasa Apso's long, straight, dense, and heavy coat requires grooming appropriate to its texture and density. With grooming needs rated 5/5 and shedding at 2/5, owners should plan their maintenance routine accordingly.
This breed requires significant coat maintenance. Daily or near-daily brushing prevents matting, distributes natural oils, and keeps the coat healthy. Professional grooming every 4–8 weeks maintains proper coat length and condition. Budget $56–89 per month for grooming expenses, and invest in quality grooming tools including appropriate brushes, combs, and dematting tools.
Regardless of coat color, all Lhasa Apsos benefit from regular nail trimming every 2–3 weeks, ear cleaning weekly (especially for breeds with floppy ears), and dental care including brushing three or more times per week. These basic grooming tasks prevent common health problems and keep your dog comfortable.
Lhasa Apso Coat Genetics
Lhasa Apso coat color is controlled by several genes that determine pigment production and distribution. The primary genes include the E (extension) locus, A (agouti) locus, K (dominant black) locus, and B (brown) locus.
DNA color testing is available and can help breeders predict puppy colors and identify carriers of recessive genes. Lhasa Apsos come in virtually any color, with golden, honey, and grizzle being most common. Color often changes significantly from puppyhood to adulthood, especially in darker dogs..
Rare vs Standard Lhasa Apso Colors
Among Lhasa Apsos, the standard colors (Golden, Black, White, Grizzle, Slate, Honey, Parti-Color) are most common. With 7 recognized colors, variety exists even within the standard palette. Buyers should be cautious—extremely rare colors can sometimes be associated with health issues or may indicate crossbreeding.
Lhasa Apsos come in virtually any color, with golden, honey, and grizzle being most common. Color often changes significantly from puppyhood to adulthood, especially in darker dogs..
Do Lhasa Apso Colors Change with Age?
Do not be surprised if your Lhasa Apso puppy's color changes as they grow. Their long, straight, dense, and heavy coat can look very different at 3 months versus 12 months. Colors like Golden, Black may shift—sometimes dramatically—during this transition. Lhasa Apsos come in virtually any color, with golden, honey, and grizzle being most common. Color often changes significantly from puppyhood to adulthood, especially in darker dogs..
Choosing a Lhasa Apso by Color
When selecting a Lhasa Apso puppy, coat color is one of the most visible factors, but it should be among the last in your decision-making process. Here is a practical framework for evaluating color alongside more important factors:
- Health testing comes first: Both parents should have documented clearances for breed-relevant conditions including Patellar Luxation. No color is worth compromising on health documentation.
- Temperament matters more: Meet the puppies and both parents when possible. A well-socialized puppy with stable temperament from health-tested parents in a common color outweighs a "rare" colored puppy from an unknown background.
- Breeder reputation is essential: Reputable breeders prioritize producing healthy, well-tempered puppies and are transparent about all aspects of their program. They do not market "rare" or "exotic" colors at inflated prices.
- Then consider color: Once health, temperament, and breeder quality are confirmed, choose the color that appeals to you. All 7 recognized Lhasa Apso colors can produce healthy, happy companions.
Controversial Colors
When shopping for a Lhasa Apso, be skeptical of breeders who advertise unusual colors at prices above $1500. Non-standard colors beyond Golden, Black, White, Grizzle, Slate, Honey, Parti-Color can indicate mixed breeding or genes linked to health issues. Lhasa Apsos come in virtually any color, with golden, honey, and grizzle being most common. Color often changes significantly from puppyhood to adulthood, especially in darker dogs..
Frequently Asked Questions
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