Dating back to 1100 BC, the Tibetan mastiff is one of the world’s oldest breeds. The breed developed in the Himalayan region of Tibet, and it was used as a guard dog of monasteries and villages. The Tibetan mastiff remained isolated in its native homeland until the mid-1800s. During this time, one of the dogs was imported to England as a gift to Queen Victoria. The first Tibetan mastiffs found their way to the United States during the 1970s. Today, the breed is considered rare in Tibet, but the dog has become increasingly popular in the United States. In 2006, the American Kennel Club recognized the Tibetan mastiff as a member of the working group.
The Tibetan Mastiff is a giant dog breed with a bear-like appearance, that has a heavy and sturdy body with a broad head and muzzle. Its body is slightly longer than tall and has powerful legs. The Tibetan Mastiff's tail is feathered and curls over the body. Tibetan Mastiffs have a thick double coat, which needs to be brushed regularly.
Personality
The Tibetan Mastiff is sociable, protective and alert. They are loyal and devoted to their own family, but have a territorial and dominant streak. Tibetan Mastiffs are very smart, but also strong-willed and independent. This can make them difficult to train. They need to be taken out for walks regularly and enjoy spending time outdoors. They may be aggressive towards other dogs and people they don't know.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 10-12 Years |
| Nicknames: | Do-khyi, Tsang-khyi |
Tibetan Mastiff Build Information
The large Tibetan mastiff can tip the scales at an average weight of 85 to 140 pounds. The dog stands at a height of 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder and is clad in a long, dense double coat. Heavier hair growth around the neck and shoulders gives the dog the regal appearance of having a mane. The coat color may be black, blue-gray or brown, and tan markings may be present. The coat may also present as varying shades of gold or red. Their ears hang downward, and the slightly plumed tail curves upward over the hindquarters. The Tibetan Mastiff is a giant dog breed with a bear-like appearance, that has a heavy and sturdy body with a broad head and muzzle. Its body is slightly longer than tall and has powerful legs. The Tibetan Mastiff's tail is feathered and curls over the body. Tibetan Mastiffs have a thick double coat, which needs to be brushed regularly.
| Size: | Giant |
Behaviour and Personality
The Tibetan mastiff is noted for its independent nature and its protective instincts. It makes a dedicated watchdog, and it is fiercely loyal to the family. Tibetan mastiffs are territorial and aloof with strangers. They may not always be welcoming to those who visit the home. Taking their guarding duties seriously, they also tend to bark frequently to alert the household to anything that seems amiss. Although they are gentle and tolerant of children, they can be overprotective of them. Their roughhousing play can also be misunderstood and interpreted as aggressive behavior. When trained and socialized early by an experienced dog owner and given plenty of exercise outlets and mental stimulation, the Tibetan mastiff makes loving and watchful companion. The Tibetan Mastiff is sociable, protective and alert. They are loyal and devoted to their own family, but have a territorial and dominant streak. Tibetan Mastiffs are very smart, but also strong-willed and independent. This can make them difficult to train. They need to be taken out for walks regularly and enjoy spending time outdoors. They may be aggressive towards other dogs and people they don't know.
| Activity Level: | Moderately Active |
| Affection Level: | Very Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Friendly |
Appearance
The Tibetan mastiff’s dense coat should be brushed several times each week to pull out the dead hair and maintain skin and coat health. During the heavy shedding season, brushing will become necessary on a daily basis. By inspecting the ears once a week, cleaning them when needed and keeping them dry, ear infections can be prevented. Maintain optimal oral and overall health by brushing the teeth several times as week as part of the grooming routine.
| Shedding: | None |
| Grooming: | Medium Maintenance |
Tibetan Mastiff Common Health Conditions
Tibetan mastiffs live average lifespans of 10 to 12 years. Some health conditions of note for Tibetan mastiffs include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, entropion, hypothyroidism, and canine inherited demyelinative neuropathy.
Tibetan Mastiff Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
If you are looking for a fiercely protective guard dog that is loving and loyal toward its family, consider the ancient Tibetan mastiff. The Tibetan mastiff originated in Tibet. The Tibetan mastiff is also called do-khyi and a tsang-khyi. The Tibetan mastiff is a loyal watchdog and a devoted companion. The Tibetan mastiff stands 24 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 85 to 140 pounds. The Tibetan mastiff has a moderate energy level. The Tibetan mastiff requires moderate grooming. The average lifespan for a Tibetan mastiff is 10 to 12 years.
| Training: | Hard |