The Lhasa Apso, a small yet fiercely independent dog breed, is known for its lion-like appearance, keen intelligence, and unique personality. Originally bred by Tibetan monks to serve as sentinel dogs in monasteries, the Lhasa Apso retains a deeply ingrained sense of self-reliance and watchfulness. These traits, while admirable, can make training a Lhasa Apso a challenge—especially when they display a stubborn streak.
For owners who are committed to raising a well-mannered companion, understanding the psyche of the Lhasa Apso and applying breed-specific training techniques can transform a seemingly untrainable pet into a loyal, obedient dog. This article explores effective, humane, and proven methods for training even the most headstrong Lhasa Apsos.
Understanding the Lhasa Apso Temperament
Before diving into training strategies, it’s essential to grasp the Lhasa Apso’s core temperament:
- Independent Thinkers: Unlike breeds that naturally seek to please their owners, Lhasa Apsos often weigh commands for their own benefit before complying.
- Territorial and Alert: Their history as watchdogs makes them naturally wary of strangers and hyper-aware of their environment.
- Sensitive Yet Proud: They don’t respond well to harsh treatment or loud voices, often shutting down or becoming more resistant.
Recognizing these traits helps trainers choose the right methods to engage the dog rather than triggering resistance.
Source: American Kennel Club – Lhasa Apso Breed Standard
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/lhasa-apso/
1. Positive Reinforcement: The Golden Rule
Positive reinforcement remains the cornerstone of modern dog training, and it’s especially vital for Lhasa Apsos. Because of their dignified and independent nature, punishment-based methods can damage trust and escalate defiance.
How to Use It:
- Treat Rewards: Use high-value treats like cheese, chicken, or store-bought snacks to reward good behavior instantly.
- Praise and Affection: Combine treats with warm vocal praise or a gentle pat, reinforcing the positive experience.
- Clicker Training: Pair desired actions with a clicker sound, followed by a treat, to help the dog associate behaviors with rewards more clearly.
Why It Works:
Research has consistently shown that dogs trained with positive reinforcement learn faster and retain behaviors longer than those trained with aversive methods (Hiby, Rooney & Bradshaw, 2004).
Reference: Hiby, E. F., Rooney, N. J., & Bradshaw, J. W. S. (2004). Dog training methods: their use, effectiveness and interaction with behaviour and welfare. Animal Welfare, 13(1), 63–69.
2. Short, Engaging Sessions
Lhasa Apsos can get bored or distracted easily. Their stubbornness often arises not from malice but from disinterest.
Strategy:
- Train for 5-10 minutes at a time, multiple times a day.
- Keep commands varied and fun. Rotate between “sit,” “stay,” “paw,” or trick training to keep their mind engaged.
- End sessions on a positive note to prevent frustration.
Tip:
Avoid repetitive drilling. Instead, aim for quality over quantity. Mental fatigue can lead to resistance in intelligent breeds like the Lhasa Apso.
3. Crate Training as a Foundation
Crate training is not only a method for housebreaking but also establishes boundaries—crucial for headstrong dogs. Lhasa Apsos need structure to thrive, and a crate offers a “safe zone.”
Implementation:
- Start by making the crate inviting with bedding and toys.
- Gradually increase crate time with positive reinforcement.
- Never use the crate as punishment; it should feel like a sanctuary.
Benefits:
Crate-trained dogs tend to be easier to manage in other areas of training, as they are accustomed to routine and limitations.
Reference: ASPCA. (2021). Crate Training.
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-training/crate-training
4. Socialization as Behavioral Training
A well-socialized Lhasa Apso is more confident and less reactive, which can reduce stubbornness triggered by fear or insecurity.
How to Socialize Effectively:
- Expose your Lhasa Apso to different people, pets, and environments gradually.
- Introduce new stimuli such as car rides, parks, and various surfaces (grass, tile, gravel) from puppyhood.
- Use positive reinforcement during interactions to create good associations.
Why It Matters:
Socialized dogs are more adaptable and less prone to territorial aggression, which can look like disobedience.
Reference: American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior – Position Statement on Socialization
https://avsab.org/socialization/
5. Use Leash Training to Reinforce Focus
Lhasa Apsos can be easily distracted outdoors, turning a walk into a tug-of-war. Leash training is essential to channel their alertness into controlled behavior.
Techniques:
- Start indoors where distractions are minimal.
- Teach the “heel” command with food rewards held at your side.
- Stop walking if the dog pulls. Only continue once the leash slackens.
Tools:
A no-pull harness can help control stubborn leash behavior without hurting the dog or creating a negative experience.
6. Establish Leadership Gently but Firmly
A stubborn Lhasa Apso often challenges your role as the leader, but harsh dominance tactics can backfire.
Leadership Tips:
- Set consistent boundaries. Don’t let your dog ignore a command sometimes and then expect compliance later.
- Control access to rewards like toys, food, or affection by asking for a basic command (like “sit”) first.
- Don’t chase your dog during misbehavior—this reinforces the idea that ignoring you is fun.
Why Gentle Leadership Works:
Modern training emphasizes cooperation over coercion. Dogs respect consistent leaders who control resources, not bullies who instill fear.
Reference: Herron, M. E., Shofer, F. S., & Reisner, I. R. (2009). Survey of the use and outcome of confrontational and non-confrontational training methods in client-owned dogs showing undesired behaviors. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 117(1–2), 47–54.
7. Mental Stimulation to Reduce Defiance
Lhasa Apsos are intelligent dogs that can become destructive or disobedient when under-stimulated.
Recommended Tools:
- Puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys
- Interactive games like hide-and-seek or name-the-toy
- Scent work games using household items and treats
Benefit:
Mental exercise tires them out and reduces the likelihood of oppositional behavior. A bored dog is a stubborn dog.
8. Use Consistent Verbal Cues and Hand Signals
Consistency helps eliminate confusion. Many Lhasa Apsos resist commands simply because they don’t understand what’s being asked.
Examples:
- Use the same word for a command every time (“Down” vs. “Lie down”).
- Pair each command with a distinct hand gesture.
- Avoid repeating commands without action. If the dog doesn’t respond, guide them gently into position and reward.
9. Avoid Overcorrecting or Punishing
Punishing a Lhasa Apso can make it shut down emotionally. Many owners mistake silence or non-responsiveness for obedience, but it can be a stress response.
What to Avoid:
- Yelling, hitting, or using shock collars
- Rubbing noses in accidents (ineffective and harmful)
- Forced submission (like alpha rolls)
Instead, focus on redirecting bad behavior and rewarding alternatives.
10. Seek Professional Help If Needed
If your Lhasa Apso continues to resist training despite your efforts, consider working with a certified dog trainer who uses science-based, force-free methods.
What to Look For:
- Certification from CCPDT (Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers)
- Experience with small, independent breeds
- Positive reviews from other pet owners
Resource: CCPDT – Find a Dog Trainer
https://www.ccpdt.org/dog-owners/certified-dog-trainer-directory/
Conclusion
Training a Lhasa Apso with a stubborn streak is not impossible—it just requires patience, consistency, and a strong understanding of the breed’s psychology. By using positive reinforcement, mental stimulation, and a structured approach, even the most willful Lhasa can learn to follow commands and become a loyal, well-behaved companion.
Remember: behind every “stubborn” behavior is a reason—whether it’s confusion, fear, boredom, or independence. Tuning into your Lhasa Apso’s motivations and working with them, not against them, is the key to lasting success.
References
- American Kennel Club – Lhasa Apso
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/lhasa-apso/ - Hiby, E. F., Rooney, N. J., & Bradshaw, J. W. S. (2004). Dog training methods. Animal Welfare, 13(1), 63–69.
- ASPCA – Crate Training
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-training/crate-training - AVSAB – Position Statement on Puppy Socialization
https://avsab.org/socialization/ - Herron, M. E., Shofer, F. S., & Reisner, I. R. (2009). Confrontational training methods. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 117(1–2), 47–54.
- CCPDT – Certified Trainer Directory
https://www.ccpdt.org
