The Tibetan Mastiff is an ancient breed from Tibet, historically used as a livestock guardian and watchdog. They are large, powerful dogs with a thick coat, known for their loyalty to family and protective nature.
Origin and Purpose
Developed in Tibet as a livestock guardian, protecting flocks and families. They are an ancient breed that historically were also used as watchdogs for monasteries.
Appearance
Dimensions
Gender
Height
Weight
Female
24 inches (61 cm) minimum
70-120 pounds (32-54 kg)
Male
26 inches (66 cm) minimum
90-150 pounds (41-68 kg)
Coat
Attribute
Notes
Color
Black
Black and Tan
Brown
Brown and Tan
Blue/Gray
Gray and Tan
Gold
Cream
Type
Double coat with a thick, dense undercoat and a long, coarse outer coat.
Length
Medium to Long
Care
Attribute
Notes
Shedding
Heavy, especially during shedding season
Grooming
Weekly, more frequently during shedding season
Drooling
Low to Moderate
Body
Attribute
Notes
Head
Large, broad, and heavy
Skull
Broad, slightly rounded
Ears
Medium-sized, triangular, hanging down, and heart shaped
Eyes
Medium-sized, oval shaped, set well apart, and brown or dark brown
Nose
Large, black with wide nostrils
Muzzle
Broad, square, and deep
Teeth
Strong, scissors bite
Neck
Thick and muscular
Forequarters
Strong and well-muscled
Fore Legs
Straight and strong
Hindquarters
Powerful and muscular
Hind Legs
Strong and well-angulated
Feet
Large, compact, and well-knuckled
Tail
Medium length, carried over back in a curl when alert.
Gait
Powerful, smooth, and effortless
Temperament
Independent, intelligent, and territorial. They can be aloof and reserved with strangers, showing protectiveness and loyalty to family.
Social
Attribute
Notes
Affectionate with Family
Very affectionate and loyal to family
Good with Children
Generally good with children when properly socialized and raised with them
Good with Dogs
Can be good with dogs if properly socialized, may be dominant.
Good with Cats
Can be good with cats when properly socialized and raised with them
Openness to Strangers
Reserved and wary of strangers
Playfulness Level
Moderate
Protective Nature
Highly Protective
Adaptability Level
Moderate, needs space and not suitable for apartment living.
Working Roles
Livestock guardian, watchdog, family companion
Exercise Needs
Moderate. They need daily walks, but are not high-energy
Health
Hip dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Hypothyroidism
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Cystinuria
Additional Notes
Early socialization and consistent training are crucial. They require space and are not suited for apartment life. They are also not suited to hot climates.
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