What's In A Name: Lhasa Apso

The little Lhasa Apso originated in Tibet, where it served as a watchdog for Tibetan palaces and monasteries. "Lhasa" is the capital of Tibet; "Apso" means "bearded," making the literal meaning "Bearded Lhasa Dog". There are some who claim the word "apso" is a form of the Tibetan word "rapso", meaning "goat-like", which would make the translation "Wooly Lhasa Dog".

The Lhasa Apso is a non-sporting dog and was bred as an interior sentinel with a keen sense of hearing in the Buddhist monasteries to alert the monks to any intruders. They are wary of strangers but loyal to those closest to them.


Source: Dr. Becker