Dog
Pronunciation:
shap-soh
Breed Description:
The Schapso breed of dog is a "designer" or mixed breed that was created by crossing the Miniature Schnauzer with the Lhasa Apso. Because of this, a breed type has not been established and the looks and temperament of the dog can greatly change from one puppy to the next. Generally, the Schapso will have qualities of both parents. They are usually a small sized breed of dog with a robust and compact build. They should have a level top line and their tail can be long or short. The head should be slightly rounded with a medium length muzzle. The ears are usually medium in size and hang down the side of the head. The overall look of hte dog should almost be teddy bear like.
The coat of the Schapso can range from the wiry coat of the Miniature Schnauzer to the silky long coat of the Lhasa Apso. Usually, it is medium in length with a very silky texture. They hair gives the dog a shaggy teddy bear look and there should be a scruffy appearance on the face. The Schapso can be any color of the parent breeds but the most common colors are black, white or cream.
Temperament:
The Schapso breed of dog is a designer breed and because of this, their temperament can vary greatly. They are known for being a very affectionate and loyal breed that loves spending time with their owner. They are very protective of their family and while they can usually warm up to strangers, they are usually wary of them at first. The breed is usually very playful and they can often have a mischievous streak to their temperament. In addition, they can be very stubborn so they need a firm and consistent owner. They are good with older children but are not recommended for homes with younger children. Lastly, the Schapso can do well with other dogs and they can do okay with other pets as long as they are raised with them.
Height:
The average height for a Schapso is between 12 to 14 inches.
Weight:
The average weight for a Schapso is between 12 to 15 pounds.
Health Problems:
The Schapso breed of dog has no known health problems, however, it is important to read up on both the Miniature Schnauzer and the Lhasa Apso to be aware of the health problems your puppy may be at risk for.
Living Conditions:
The Schapso breed of dog is versatile when it comes to living conditions and they can live in both apartments and homes with yards. They should not live outdoors and do best when they are inside with their family as a companion dog.
Exercise:
The Schapso breed of dog is an active breed that requires between 20 to 30 minutes of exercise each day. Generally, two good walks will meet their needs but it is important to keep them on leash since they are prone to running off.
Life Expectancy:
10 to 15 years
Grooming:
The Schapso breed of dog can be difficult to groom if you keep them in full coat and you should expect to brush them on a daily basis, however, if you choose to clip them, then weekly brushing will be enough. Clipping should be done every six to eight weeks and they should be bathed at that time as well. Nails should be trimmed once or twice a month and ears should be cleaned weekly. The eyes and face should be wiped regularly to keep the dog tidy.
Origin:
The Schapso breed of dog is a designer `hybrid`breed that has become popular over the last decade or so. There is no actual origin for the breed and if you are interested in learning more about the Schapso, it is important to read up on both the Miniature Schnauzer and the Lhasa Apso. Comments
The standards for all the breeds accepted to the AKC are used here for breed information, and those not part of the AKC are resourced from FCI standard information, where it is written and coded into the club rules for those breeds.
