2025 AKC Non-Sporting Group Honoree & Breeder of the Year: Susan S. Giles – Ta Sen Lhasa Apsos

2025 AKC Non-Sporting Group Honoree & Breeder of the Year: Susan Giles – Ta Sen Lhasa Apsos

1. The colorful Lhasa Apso is a dog of the Himalayas, small yet sturdy, with extreme intelligence. What is it about the breed that has sustained your interest for so long?

Susan Giles: I fell in love with this breed in 1973. Each is its own individual with its own quirks and personality. They are challenging because of their intelligence and slight stubborness; you always have to be a step ahead of them. And the care and maintenance of the coat offers an opportunity to express yourself artistically when presenting them in the ring, making that beautiful picture.

2. In dogs, selection is key. How do you select your sire and dam combinations? How do you decide which puppies appear in the show ring?

Susan Giles: Not only do I pay attention to pedigrees, I use compensation breeding practices. If the dam could use a better rear, I look for a male with a very good rear. If his front is not his best feature and hers is, then hopefully she will be able to hold the front. When it comes to choosing the puppies that will make it to the show ring, first I look for the puppies that closest meet the qualities that the Breed Standard calls for and then go for the puppy with the better show attitude.

3. Breeding dogs successfully requires some degree of cooperation. What are your thoughts on making stud dogs available to others? What about leasing bitches for breeding?

Susan Giles: I actually have not leased a bitch for breeding, although I did try to a number of years ago. I have made my males available to other breeders and I have also brought in dogs from other countries, particularly because we have a shrinking gene pool.

4. The Breed Standard is the preservation breeder’s most essential tool. How would you summarize the importance of breeding to the Standard and presenting the breed in the ring accordingly?

Susan Giles: Extremely!

5. Purebred dog registrations have been declining in the US, even as interest in “all things dog” has exploded. What do you think should be done to promote the merits of recognized breeds in a society that is obsessed with doodles?

Susan Giles: With the Lhasa Apso, stressing the longevity and very, very good health of the breed, along with the exotic, intelligent, playful nature of this ancient breed, in my estimation makes for a much wiser choice than a doodle that combines all the health issues of the two breeds.