The original Lao breed of dog is the Lao mountain dog, also known as the Lao Lup Apso or Lao Apso. It is a small to medium-sized dog that is native to the mountainous areas of Laos. The Lao mountain dog is a spitz-type breed with a thick double coat, pointed ears, and a curled tail.
These dogs were traditionally kept as guard dogs and were valued for their ability to protect their owners and their property. They are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and independent nature, and are still used for these purposes in some parts of Laos.
However, the Lao mountain dog is now a rare breed, and its population is declining. The breed is not recognized by any major international kennel clubs, and there are few breeding programs or efforts to preserve the breed. In recent years, there have been some efforts to promote and protect the Lao mountain dog as part of Lao cultural heritage.