ALLEMAND
ESPAGNOL
FRANÇAIS
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PORTUGAISTibetan mastiff
Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog tibetan mastiff!
Here, you will find all the useful information about tibetan mastiff. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.
Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.
Overall description of the breed
Traces of the Tibetan Mastiff can be found as far back as antiquity, cited by Marco Polo in the 13th century. The Tibetan Mastiff is a sheepdog with extremely ancient origins and an appearance that has remained unchanged for thousands of years. Mainly used as a temple or cattle guard in the mountainous regions of Tibet, it is a dog as strong physically as it is mentally.
Imported to Europe by British nobility in the 19th century, it was presented by the Viceroy of India, Lord Hardinge, to Queen Victoria in 1847. Despite its distant origins and its spread to many countries around the world, the Tibetan Mastiff was belatedly recognised by the International Cynological Federation on 22 August 1961. The last update of the official standard in force was published on 13 March 2015.
The Tibetan Mastiff's morphology is a reflection of its determination. It is a courageous animal, built for the mountains and hostile climates. Highly prized for its remarkable physical abilities and resistance to effort, its body is as long as it is high and fits into a square, its topline is straight, broad and firm.
Underneath the thick coat is a remarkably well developed musculature, powerful and agile, with a broad, well built chest and thick legs and bones. It has a massive head, a rounded skull and a short square muzzle. The tail is of good length, covered by abundant hair. The body is entirely covered with long, straight hair, combined with a dense undercoat, which protects it effectively from rain and cold.
The character of the Tibetan Mastiff is enigmatic and sometimes difficult, it is not a dog to be put in all hands, independent and not very demonstrative, it remains nevertheless loyal and faithful to its family of adoption. An excellent guardian and a territorial dog, it is strongly advised not to venture onto his land without being invited, as his temerity as well as his protective instinct is intensely marked, intruders are really not welcome!
Not very well suited to children, the Tibetan Mastiff can be unpredictable, nevertheless, it retains a benevolent temperament that will make it a good family dog, which will watch fiercely over all members of the household and react in a quarter of a second if it senses the slightest danger. It is advisable to socialise him very early on to get him used to life in a community and to encourage his integration into a social group. It has little predatory instinct, but if a pest or small game ventures onto its land, it will do everything it can to chase it away.
They are solitary by nature and you should respect their aloofness. If you take them as they are, they will make excellent companions and watch over your home in a very efficient manner.
Adult: The Tibetan Mastiff will weigh approximately 110-176 lbs, but some males can reach over 220 lbs, with a height at the withers of approximately26"-27.5" for males and 24"-25.6" for females.
Awareness of acquiring an animal
Each animal is a sensitive being, deserving love, attention and care.
When you choose to adopt an animal, you take on the responsibility of ensuring its health and well-being throughout its life.
To learn more about animal welfare, we invite you to consult our FAQ by clicking the button below:
Origins
The Tibetan Mastiff, also known as the Tibetan Mastiff, is one of the oldest and most venerable dog breeds, originating from the Himalayan mountains in Tibet. Traditionally used by Tibetan nomads to protect livestock from predators such as wolves and leopards, this impressive dog also served as a guardian for monasteries and homes.
History
The presence of the Tibetan Mastiff has been documented for thousands of years, with references dating back to the time of Aristotle in the 4th century BC. Their introduction to the West is relatively recent, in the 19th century, where they captivated the imagination of breeders and dog enthusiasts with their majestic stature and noble demeanor.
Standard
According to the International Canine Federation (FCI), the Tibetan Mastiff must have a powerful and imposing appearance, with a well-muscled body and a broad head. Their coat, which can be black, gold, or gray, is dense and long, requiring regular maintenance. Males can reach a height of 66 cm at the withers and weigh well over 50 kg.
Physical characteristics
The Tibetan Mastiff is known for its sturdy stature and serious expression. Its double coat protects it from the extreme weather conditions of its natural habitat. Its gait is powerful and confident, reflecting its strength and determination.
Character
This dog is characterized by its unwavering loyalty, independence, and calm temperament. Although he is a vigilant and courageous guard, the Tibetan Mastiff is also patient and affectionate with his family. He can be wary of strangers, which makes him an excellent watchdog.
Life expectancy
The life expectancy of the Tibetan Mastiff generally ranges from 10 to 12 years. A high-quality diet, regular care, and appropriate exercise can contribute to a long and healthy life for this breed.
Exercise and activity needs
Despite its size, the Tibetan Mastiff does not have extreme exercise needs. Daily walks are enough to satisfy its activity requirements, although it also enjoys the freedom to roam in a larger, secure area.
Recommended diet
A diet rich in proteins and suited to its size is crucial for the Tibetan Mastiff. It is important to monitor its diet to avoid overweight, especially because this breed can be prone to joint issues.
Training and obedience
The Tibetan Mastiff is intelligent but can present a challenge in training due to its independence. Early, firm, and consistent training is necessary, always with respect and patience, to cultivate obedience and good manners.
Behavior with children
With proper socialization and supervision, the Tibetan Mastiff can be a loving and protective companion for children. However, its large size requires caution, especially around young children, to prevent overly rough play.
Compatibility with Other Animals
The Tibetan Mastiff can coexist with other pets if it is properly socialized from a young age. However, due to its guardian and predatory instincts, a careful and gradual introduction is necessary. Its dominant nature may require ongoing supervision to ensure peaceful interactions, especially with smaller animals that could trigger its hunting instinct.
Grooming needs
The Tibetan Mastiff has a dense coat that requires regular maintenance to prevent knotting and maintain its health. Weekly brushing is recommended, as well as periodic baths to keep its coat clean and in good condition. During the shedding season, more frequent brushing may be necessary to manage hair loss.
Health
Tibetan Mastiffs are prone to certain health conditions related to their large size, such as hip dysplasia, heart problems, and hypothyroidism. Special attention must be paid to their diet to prevent obesity, which can exacerbate these issues. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for maintaining their well-being.
Average price
The purchase price of a Tibetan Mastiff puppy can vary considerably, ranging from 2000 to more than 5000 euros, depending on the lineage, the breeder's reputation, and the breed standards. High-quality specimens intended for show or breeding can cost even more.
Expenses
The annual maintenance costs for a Tibetan Mastiff, including food, grooming, healthcare, and insurance, can amount to several thousand euros. Their large size and specific health needs contribute to these expenses.
Name ideas
Majestic and powerful names like Everest, Kailash, Titan, Luna, or Atlas can suit the Tibetan Mastiff, reflecting its imposing stature and noble heritage.
Legislation and regulation
Although there is no specific classification or restrictive regulation applicable to the Tibetan Mastiff at the international level, some regions may impose specific requirements for the ownership of large dogs. It is important to inquire about local laws before adopting a Tibetan Mastiff.
Official recognition
The Tibetan Mastiff is recognized by major cynological organizations, including the CKU (China Kennel Union) in China, the RKF (Russiskaya Kinologicheskaya Federatsia) in Russia, the KC (The Kennel Club) in the United Kingdom, the LOF (Livres des Origines Françaises) in France, and the CKC (Canada Kennel Club) in Canada, all of which are affiliated with the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), ensuring the adoption of breed standards and breeding guidelines.
Pedigrees
Pedigrees, certifying the purity of the Tibetan Mastiff's lineage, are available from national and international breed clubs. These documents are essential for owners interested in breeding, dog shows, or preserving the breed's quality.
Destination and usage
Traditionally used as a guardian of herds and properties, the Tibetan Mastiff still excels in these roles. Today, it is also cherished as a companion dog, offering protection and loyalty to its family. Its imposing presence and calm temperament make it a popular choice for those seeking a majestic companion.
Prohibitions
There are no general bans on the Tibetan Mastiff breed. However, due to its size and specific needs, potential owners are advised to ensure they have the space, time, and resources necessary to accommodate such a dog.
Breeders of Tibetan mastiff
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