Like humans, dogs have eyelashes to keep pollen, dust and debris out of their eyes. Most dogs' eyelashes are relatively short, matching the length of their fur. Long-haired breeds normally have longer eyelashes to help keep their veil of fur out of their eyes. One breed, the Lhasa apso, is known for its long eyelashes and holds the world record for the longest eyelash on a dog.
The Lhasa Apso
A Lhasa apso named Prince Albert holds the Guinness World Record for the longest eyelashes, with one eyelash measuring 5.35 inches. The Lhaso apso is an ancient breed from Tibet. Records show that the dogs were raised as companions and indoor watchdogs as far back as 800 B.C. Lhasa apsos were first brought to the United States in 1933. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1935 and the United Kennel Club in 1975. These small dogs have heavy coats of floor-length fur, which keep them warm in the cold climate of the Tibetan mountains. Their eyelashes keep the long fur out of their eyes.
References
- Guinness World Records: Longest Eyelashes on a Dog
- The Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds; Juliette Cunliffe
- The Complete Burke's Backyard: The Ultimate Book of Fact Sheets; Don Burke
- American Kennel Club: Get to Know the Lhasa Apso
- United Kennel Club: Lhasa Apso
Writer Bio
With degrees in fine and commercial art and Spanish, Ruth de Jauregui is an old-school graphic artist, book designer and published author. De Jauregui authored 50 Fabulous Tomatoes for Your Garden, available as an ebook. She enthusiastically pursues creative and community interests, including gardening, home improvement and social issues.