non sporting

Lhasa Apso

12–15 year lifespan · small breed · 12–18 lbs

$41,500 – $56,000

Estimated 14-year lifetime cost of a Lhasa Apso in California, excluding insurance

$5,150 First year
$3,300 Each year after
$500 Expected medical

For your breed and state, self-insuring is likely more cost-effective than paying premiums.

How much does a Lhasa Apso cost per year?

Annual cost breakdown for a Lhasa Apso in California. Ranges reflect typical low-to-high spending.

Food $800–$1,050
Routine Vet Care $650–$850
Preventatives $250–$350
Illness & Emergency Reserve $350–$500
Grooming $400–$550
Supplies & Gear $300–$400
$3,300
per year
Food$95029%
Routine Vet Care$75023%
Preventatives$3009%
Illness & Emergency Reserve$45014%
Grooming$50015%
Supplies & Gear$35011%

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What health problems do Lhasa Apsos have?

Breed-specific conditions your Lhasa Apso may face, ranked by expected cost impact.

Patellar Luxation

●●○○ moderate Age 1–5
Probability 12%
Treatment range $0–$5,400

Cherry Eye (Prolapsed Third Eyelid Gland)

●○○○ mild Age 0.5–2
Probability 8%
Treatment range $50–$2,050

Allergies / Atopic Dermatitis

●○○○ mild Age 1–5
Probability 15%
Treatment range $50–$700

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

●●●○ severe Age 4–8
Probability 10%
Treatment range $50–$250

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

●●●○ severe Age 6–12
Probability 10%
Treatment range $50–$250

Risk tier: low. Total expected medical cost: $500 over the breed's lifetime.

Is pet insurance worth it for a Lhasa Apso?

Over your dog's lifetime, you'll pay $5,000 in premiums. Expected uninsured medical costs: $0–$1,000.

Self-insure may be betterPets Best · 14-year projection
Best value

Pets Best

Monthly premium $30/mo
Annual premium $350/yr
Deductible $200
Reimbursement 90%
  • Hereditary and congenital conditions covered
  • Bilateral condition coverage (both sides)
  • Unlimited annual limit available

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MetLife

Monthly premium $45/mo
Annual premium $550/yr
Deductible $250
Reimbursement 100%
  • Hereditary and congenital conditions covered
  • Bilateral condition coverage (both sides)
  • Dental illness included
  • Unlimited annual limit available

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Trupanion

Monthly premium $45/mo
Annual premium $550/yr
Deductible $200
Reimbursement 90%
  • Hereditary and congenital conditions covered
  • Bilateral condition coverage (both sides)
  • Unlimited annual limit available
  • No orthopedic waiting period

Get a quote from Trupanion

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Frequently asked questions

How much does a Lhasa Apso cost over its lifetime?

A Lhasa Apso costs between $41,500 and $56,000 over its 12–15 year lifespan in California. The first year typically costs around $5,150 including supplies, training, and initial vet visits.

What are the most common Lhasa Apso health problems?

The most common health issues for Lhasa Apsos include Patellar Luxation, Cherry Eye (Prolapsed Third Eyelid Gland), Allergies / Atopic Dermatitis, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). Owners should budget for both preventive care and potential treatment costs.

Is pet insurance worth it for a Lhasa Apso?

For your breed and state, self-insuring is likely more cost-effective than paying premiums. The Lhasa Apso is a small breed with moderate health risks. Moderate health risks. Good value if specific breed conditions develop.

How much does Lhasa Apso food cost per month?

Lhasa Apso food costs typically range from $32 to $62 per month, with an average of $43. Costs vary based on food quality, brand, and your dog's specific dietary needs.

How much is Lhasa Apso pet insurance per month?

Pet insurance for a Lhasa Apso costs $22–$51 per month (average $31/mo). Premiums vary by your dog's age, location, chosen deductible, and reimbursement level.

Sources

Figures on this page are modeled estimates calibrated to published benchmarks (accessed 2026-07-21). Breed characteristics follow AKC breed standards. Full formula and inputs: our methodology.