About The Tibetan Mastiff Breed
The Tibetan Mastiff is perhaps historically the oldest of the large breeds. No other breed of dog has been cited as the direct ancestor of so many of our modern breeds. While other breeds have experienced infinite variation in their years of contact with mankind, the Tibetan Mastiff of today remains what he has always been – a veritable “King of the Dogs” whose physical characteristics equip him for survival on the “roof of the world”. This barren landscape is among the world’s harshest, where within the space of a day, temperatures can rise from well below zero to 28 degrees centigrade.
This unique breed has worked for centuries as a guardian of homes and families, monasteries and flocks. It is quite adaptable but will require guidance and training to adjust to a lifestyle far removed from that of the TMs accustomed to living in Tibet.
The Tibetan Mastiff is a highly intelligent family dog. It is extremely loyal but must be considered and treated as an important member of the family. Around other people the TM can be aloof and protective, and will need to be well socialized. With children, TMs show extreme tolerance and patience.
Is This The Best Breed For Me?
Group
Utility
Origin
Tibet
Original Function
Guarded and protected monasteries and flocks
Availability
Rare in Australia; puppies usually born June to August
Average Lifespan
11 – 14 years
Maturity Age
3 – 4 years in females; 5 - 6 years in males
Height
Usually 24” – 29” / 60 – 78 cm
Weight
40 – 75 kg
Watchdog Qualities
Excellent; can be night barkers
Attitude to Strangers
Cautious and aloof but friendly once introduced
Coat Type
Hypoallergenic straight double coat; woolly undercoat coat is shed leading into summer
Colour
Black, black & tan, shades of gold, grey or blue
Grooming Needs
Very clean dogs without a doggy smell; Regular bath in tepid water, comb weekly
Coat Maintenance
Thorough brushing during yearly moult; weekly brush
Training
Intelligent dogs that will require socialization, obedience / varied training from 3-4 months
Exercise
Extremely active agile dogs that require regular daily exercise
Food
Recommend a well-balanced diet - Discuss with your breeder
Good Family Dog?
YES Great with children; need to be considered as an important member of the family; very loyal
Around Other People?
Aloof and protective; need to socialise them well when they are young; often will need unfamiliar people to be introduced
With Other Breeds?
Best to introduce from a young age; but great with other dogs when socialized
Living With Other Animals?
As a guardian breed TMs are very good with other pets and animals when they regard them as part of the family group
Suitability to Climate
Double coat acts as an insulator to keep body temperature constant in hot and cold climates; humidity can be an issue
Hereditary Disease
Breeding dogs should have hips and elbows checked for dysplasia and thyroid and entropion checks
Town or Country
Need good fencing and plenty of room; digging and chewing can be chosen pastimes
Special Considerations
Puppies only born during winter months
Special Features
Non allergenic coat; excellent guardian qualities; loyal member of your family; great with children
Character Sketch
Loyal, loving, gentle, brave, extremely intelligent, protective, beautiful, spirited
