The Lhasa Apso’s Great American Adventure: From Forbidden City to Suburban Bliss
Ever wondered how the majestic Lhasa Apso, a dog once considered a national treasure of Tibet, ended up lounging on American sofas? Well, grab a cup of tea and get comfy, because this tale involves a socialite-adventurer, a Dalai Lama, and a diplomatic dog exchange that would make even the most seasoned diplomats wag their tails in approval.
Laura Lhasafam
9/25/20242 min read
The Man of Many Hats
Meet Charles Suydam Cutting, a man whose resume reads like a character from an Indiana Jones movie. Born in 1889, Cutting was a socialite, financier, naturalist, explorer, big-game hunter, spy, and adventurer. Oh, and let’s not forget dog fancier. Alongside his equally adventurous wife, Helen, Cutting had a penchant for traveling to the most remote corners of the world. In 1928, he became the first Westerner to enter Lhasa, the Forbidden City. But it was his second visit in 1930 that really put him on the map.
A Canine Connection with the Dalai Lama
During this visit, Cutting managed to score an audience with none other than the 13th Dalai Lama. Now, you might think their conversation would revolve around spirituality or politics, but nope—it was all about dogs. The Dalai Lama, it turns out, was as passionate about canines as Cutting. The two struck up an unlikely friendship, bonded by their mutual love for four-legged friends.
The Great Dog Exchange
Upon returning to their Hamilton Farms estate in New Jersey, the Cuttings decided to send the Dalai Lama a pair of Dalmatians (or Dachshunds, depending on who’s telling the story). Not to be outdone, the Dalai Lama reciprocated in true Tibetan fashion, gifting the Cuttings a pair of Lhasa Apsos named Taikoo and Dinkai. These two dogs would become the foundation of the Lhasa Apso breed in America.
From Tibet to the AKC
The Cuttings didn’t just stop at owning these majestic dogs; they bred them, creating a line that would eventually lead to the American Kennel Club (AKC) registering its first Lhasa Apso in 1935. Talk about making history! Thanks to the Cuttings and their adventurous spirit, Lhasa Apsos went from being a jealously guarded national treasure of Tibet to beloved pets in American households.
So, the next time you see a Lhasa Apso, remember: this little dog has a backstory that’s more thrilling than most action movies. From the Forbidden City to suburban America, the Lhasa Apso’s journey is a testament to the power of friendship, diplomacy, and a shared love of dogs.