Which dog breed was bred in Tibet to act as a watchdog in temples and monasteries?

The Lhasa Apso is a dog breed that originated in Tibet. Traditionally, it was used as an interior sentinel or watchdog in temples and monasteries. Its name comes from Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet, and 'Apso', which may mean 'bark-guard'. Tibetan nobles and holy men believed the dog had a vital role as a spiritual watchdog, hence its employment as a guard in monasteries and temples. Tibetans also believed the owner's soul entered the dog after their death.

For hundreds of years, the Lhasa Apso was only bred in Tibet due to its religious importance. In the early 20th century, two Lhasas were gifted to C. Suydam Cutting (1889-1972), an American explorer, by the 13th Dalai Lama, Thupten Gyatso (1879-1933). The dogs arrived in America in 1933.

The male Lhasa Apso is usually 10 to 11 inches (25-28 cm) tall and the females slightly shorter. An adult dog weighs somewhere between 13 to 15 pounds (5-7 kg). For some time, the breed was mistakingly labelled a terrier. It has since been transferred to the non-sporting group.