The Lhasa Apso is a small intelligent dog that for centuries was almost unknown outside Tibet, where the mighty Mount  Everest stands like a guardian sentinel. The dogs served as monastery watchdogs against any intruder who got past the Tibetan Mastiff, thus giving rise to their native name of Abso Seng Kye (Bark Lion Sentinel Dog). The Lhasa Apso is a loving playful dog with its master, but wary and aloof around strangers.