Occasionally, within a litter of otherwise healthy Shih Tzu puppies, one might exhibit a distinct difference in hair growth. This variation typically becomes noticeable around six weeks of age, and sometimes later, depending on whether the puppy is a partial or full “Prapso.” The term “Prapso” originated in Australia, stemming from the phrase “perhaps an Apso,” and was initially associated with Lhasa Apsos, who were sometimes referred to as “smooth-haired” Lhasa’s. However, this trait is not exclusive to Lhasa Apsos and can periodically appear in Shih Tzus and other Tibetan breeds.
Prapso puppies are a fascinating occurrence and are perfectly healthy. They tend to mature faster than their littermates, often opening their eyes earlier and developing a full set of teeth sooner. Generally, they possess a more rambunctious personality and are perceived to be slightly smarter than their breed counterparts. The most apparent characteristic is their shorter-than-average coat for their breed. In a full Prapso, the hair is shorter and smoother across most of the body, with the muzzle and legs often being shorter relative to the body. A full Prapso Lhasa Apso can closely resemble a Tibetan Spaniel.
Partial Prapso puppies, which are more commonly observed in Shih Tzus, typically have longer body hair that may not reach the ground like a traditional show coat. They might have longer hair on the face and head, suitable for top knots, but the hair around the muzzle and on the legs usually remains short. While their coat can be longer than a “smooth-haired” appearance, it generally won’t achieve the extreme length seen in typical Shih Tzus. The texture is often straighter and smoother compared to a standard Shih Tzu coat.
Prapso puppies and dogs make excellent pets. They offer the loving, fun, playful, and loyal personality characteristic of the Shih Tzu breed, but with less intensive grooming requirements associated with a long coat. If a Shih Tzu is kept in a shorter coat style, the Prapso’s coat length is a non-issue.
While not uncommon, some breeders may be unaware of this condition or fail to recognize its signs. Reputable breeders who are knowledgeable about Prapso traits will typically sell these puppies as pets and educate potential buyers about the puppy’s unique coat characteristics. However, less scrupulous breeders might deliberately conceal this information, leading to confusion and disappointment for unsuspecting buyers. A buyer seeking a show-quality Shih Tzu could be misled, potentially resulting in the puppy ending up in a shelter or facing homelessness due to a disappointed owner. A loving pet owner might also spend considerable time, money, and emotional distress trying to understand what they perceive as a “problem” with their puppy.
The Prapso puppy offers a wonderful, intelligent, affectionate, playful, and somewhat lower-maintenance alternative to their breed standard counterparts. Owners who have experienced the joy of Prapso dogs often seek out another due to their delightful nature and ease of care. It’s important to understand that a Prapso puppy is nothing to be ashamed of. Some breeders, like Reilly’s Reg’d, even include contract clauses to ensure Prapso puppies do not end up homeless.
From a breeder’s perspective, producing a Prapso puppy is rarely intentional; they can simply appear in a litter. Some breeders have encountered litters with Prapso puppies, and theories suggest a historical crossbreeding with Tibetan Spaniels in Tibet might be a contributing factor to the breed’s development. Others believe it’s a genetic mutation. Many breeders who have had a Prapso appear often receive requests for another due to their appealing traits and manageable coats. However, attempting to intentionally breed for this trait can be disappointing, as female Prapso dogs tend to have smaller litters, often only one or two puppies.
Ultimately, a Prapso puppy is a perfectly healthy pet capable of bringing years of love and affection. Signs that you might have a Prapso include:
- Less Grooming: The hair on most Psrapso’s doesn’t grow excessively long, and they often have a single coat, leading to significantly less matting. Matting is typically only observed behind the ears.
- Distinct “Pants”: They often exhibit a thick “handlebar moustache” appearance on the hair of their hind legs.
- Minimal Facial Hair: Compared to a regular Shih Tzu, they tend to have little to no facial hair in the typical sense.
- Quick Learning: They possess quick minds and are adept at learning tricks.
- Increased Shedding: Psrapso’s may shed more than a standard Shih Tzu.
- “Whoville” Feet: This refers to a distinctive puffiness or fullness of the hair on their feet.
Prapso Shih Tzus are a testament to the wonderful diversity within dog breeds, offering a unique and manageable coat option for dedicated pet owners.