7-15 lbs
7-12"
Unknown
The La Pom is a cross between the Lhasa Apso and the Pomeranian. Dogs of the hybrid are small, reaching between 7 and 15 pounds. The La Pom is small in size but big in spirt. Dogs of the hybrid are smart and make good watchdogs. In addition, the breed is strong in completing tricks as well as in participating in agility activities. The La Pom will do well in an apartment or in a house. With early socialization, the La Pom will get along well with other animals and with people in the home.
The hybrid called the La Pom is a new breed of dog that does not have a detailed history, though the two breeds that combine to create the breed have long histories. Buddhist monks living in the mountains of Tibet developed the Lhasa Apso as sentinels for their temples and monasteries. The DNA of the Lhasa Apso points to the breed having descended by a kind of mountain wolf and there is also a belief that the dogs are descendants of Tibetan Terriers. The Lhasa Apso was bred to handle cold weather as well as to have the ability to determine whether those approaching are friend or foe. The Dalai Lamas did not sell the dogs, however they would on occasion, give a pair as a gift to Imperial families and dignitaries that visited. The breed first arrived in the U.S. in 1933 and was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1935. The Pomeranian comes from Pomerania, Germany, which is where his name comes from. Descended from the ancient Spitz breeds of the far northern countries, the breed is related to the Norwegian Elkhound, German Spitz, Samoyed, American Eskimo Dog and the Schipperke. Early Pomeranians were significantly larger than those seen today, with a weight up to 30 pounds and used as sheep dogs. The breed was introduced in England when Queen Charlotte moved there to marry King George III in 1761 and brought her two Pomeranians with her, becoming popular with the public when her daughter Queen Victoria bred numerous dogs, including the Pomeranian. The breed gain popularity quickly in the United States around 1900, with the American Pomeranian Club founded in 1909. The breed’s size consistently decreased during 1900 and 1930.
The La Pom is a small dog that can weigh between 7 and 15 pounds. Dogs of the hybrid will have a double coat; the undercoat will consist of short, soft hair while the outer coat has coarse, long hair. The La Pom will typically have a round head with a short muzzle, floppy ears and eyes that are almond shaped. The breed is commonly seen in the following colors: cream, red, white, golden, black, brown and tan.
The La Pom does not shed much, though a few times during the year you can expect a bit more shedding than usual. Because of the small amount of shedding, grooming and maintenance are relatively simple. It is recommended that you brush your La Pom daily so that his hair does not become matted. Dogs of the breed should only be bathed when necessary, though his ears should be checked for infection and wiped clean on a weekly basis. As with all dogs, the teeth of the La Pom should be brushed several times per week to ensure his long term dental health and his nails should be clipped as needed. The nails of the La Pom can be sharp and can curl towards the foot if left unattended.
The La Pom usually will think that he is bigger than he really is, so it is a good idea to keep an eye on him when he is playing with larger dogs. Dogs of the hybrid are calm, yet love to play and will be intelligent and affectionate. The La Pom will prefer to be close to his human; being separated for long periods of time is not ideal for this breed. Dogs of the breed love having company and enjoy being the center of attention. Despite his small size, the La Pom will be alert and protective of his humans. Early socialization is recommended for the La Pom so that he can get along well with children and other animals. Dogs of the breed can be independent in nature, requiring that you establish right away that you are the pack leader.
The La Pom will be somewhat active, though does not need a lot of exercise in order to remain happy and in good health. Dogs of the hybrid will benefit from a medium length walk each day as well as some time to play. The La Pom will do well in an apartment as long as he is taken on a walk or two each day and is able to play some indoors. Dogs of the hybrid will also enjoy spending time at the dog park. If you have a yard that your La Pom can enjoy, do not leave him unattended as he may attempt an adventure beyond the barrier, due to his curious nature.
Written by a Australian Shepherd lover Ilyssa Bozza
Published: 10/24/2017, edited: 02/24/2021
More articles by Ilyssa Bozza
My puppy is lapom. He is 2 and half month old. He has no hair growth. Slowly hair is growing. When will he get hair growth. Will his hair grow or not
