Loading...
preeders.com Sign in Contact us

Tibetan terrier

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog tibetan terrier!

Here, you will find all the useful information about tibetan terrier. 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

Sacred dog with ancestral origins among Tibetan monks, the Tibetan Terrier's primary function was to watch over herds and merchants traversing the vast mountainous expanses of Tibet.

Although modest in build, it was employed as a guard dog by traders en route to China, who regarded it as a protector due to its reputation as a sacred dog and its guarding abilities.

Deeply rooted in Tibetan culture, the breed was long known as the Lhasa Terrier. Following the introduction of several imported specimens by Dr. Greig Agnes, its development and selection primarily took place in Great Britain from the 1930s, lending it a certain popularity in Europe.

Thanks to the efforts of various British breeders, the Tibetan Terrier was officially registered by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale on December 18, 1957, with Great Britain as the breed's sponsor country, even though its origins are Chinese. The current official standard was published on August 22, 2017.

The Tibetan Terrier is a medium-sized dog with well-developed musculature, a powerful animal despite its modest size. Short and compact, its body length is equal to its height at the withers, making it square in structure. It boasts a broad and deep chest, a full chest, and robust, straight, and relatively short legs. Its distinctive silhouette gives it the appearance of a rounded shape covered with long, thick, and abundant fringed hair, with rigid or wavy textures.

Its head proportions are balanced, with a round shape and a strong, moderately-lengthed muzzle, featuring a well-defined but not exaggerated stop. Its long V-shaped ears are attached high on the sides of the head, adorned with long fringes and always pendulous. Its round eyes are primarily dark. Its medium-length tail is well-furnished and curls above its back.

The Tibetan Terrier's coat is long, fine, and has a woolly texture, with a dense and abundant undercoat. Numerous colors are accepted according to standards, including white, gold, cream, gray or smoke, black, and tricolor. In summary, all shades are allowed except for chocolate, liver, or merle.

Appreciated for its affection, cheerful spirit, and numerous displays of affection towards its owners, the Tibetan Terrier proves to be an excellent companion for all. It can tenderly care for the elderly while actively participating in the sporting activities of the younger ones without excessive risk. It is an endearing, gentle, and intelligent companion in its interactions with humans.

Never aggressive or fearful, it remains an excellent watchdog, with a remarkably pronounced protective instinct. However, its former guardian role is now distant, moving closer to that of a good family dog—calm and devoted. Slightly wary of strangers, it tends to bark if surprised, which could be one of the few flaws in this well-balanced breed. For the rest, there is nothing to report: it is a life partner filled with tenderness, loyalty, and reliability.

In adulthood, the Tibetan Terrier weighs between 8 and 13 kg (17.6 to 28.6 lbs) and measures 36 to 41 cm (14.2" to 16.2") at the withers in males. Females are slightly smaller.

Origins

The Tibetan Terrier, also known as Tsang Apso, originates from the mountainous regions of Tibet. Bred by Buddhist monks in monasteries, it mainly served as a companion and guard dog. Despite the name "Terrier", it does not belong to the terrier family but is closer to the Lhasa Apso. Tibetan Terriers were bred for their loyalty, intelligence, and ability to navigate the rugged terrain of the Tibetan mountains.

History

The history of the Tibetan Terrier is rich and ancient. These dogs often lived with Buddhist monks and Tibetan nomads, where they were respected for their role as guardians and loyal companions. They were not only pets but also considered as good luck charms. In the early 20th century, the first Tibetan Terriers were introduced to Europe by explorers and missionaries, and the breed quickly gained popularity due to its pleasant temperament and distinctive appearance.

Standard

The breed standard for the Tibetan Terrier states a medium-sized dog, measuring between 36 and 41 cm at the withers, with a weight ranging from 8 to 14 kg. Its body is well-proportioned and muscular, with a square-shaped head and a medium-length muzzle. The eyes are large, dark in color, and expressive, while the ears are hanging and covered with abundant hair. The coat is double, with a soft undercoat and a long, abundant outer coat, slightly wavy. Coat colors may vary, including white, black, gold, and grey.

Physical characteristics

The Tibetan Terrier is a sturdy and well-proportioned dog, with a long and thick coat that protects it from bad weather. Its expressive and dark eyes are framed by long fur, and its drooping ears add to its charm. The body is compact and muscular, giving it great agility. The tail is carried in a loop over the back, covered in abundant fur. Its gait is light and elastic, reflecting its ability to move easily on the rugged terrain of Tibet.

Character

The Tibetan Terrier is known for its cheerful and affectionate character. Loyal and devoted to its family, it is also very intelligent and learns quickly. Although it is wary of strangers, it is never aggressive without reason. It has an excellent sense of humor and loves to play, making it an excellent companion for children. Its guarding instinct is shown through constant vigilance, but it is generally calm and well-balanced. This breed is ideal for families looking for an affectionate and protective dog.

Life expectancy

The Tibetan Terrier's life expectancy ranges from 12 to 15 years, which is relatively long for a dog of its size. This longevity is the result of a robust constitution and a healthy genetic heritage. To maximize its life expectancy, it is crucial to provide it with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and preventive veterinary care. Special attention to dental health and monitoring of common diseases in small and medium-sized dogs are also essential to ensure a long and healthy life.

Exercise and activity needs

The Tibetan Terrier is an active dog that requires daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. A one-hour walk per day, along with play sessions and mental stimulation, is usually sufficient. They also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, which corresponds to their mountain dog heritage. Although they are active, they also know how to relax at home, making them adaptable to different lifestyles, including apartment living, as long as they are provided with enough exercise.

Recommended diet

The Tibetan Terrier's diet must be balanced and adapted to its specific needs. A high-quality diet, rich in animal proteins, is essential to maintain its health and vitality. Premium kibble specially formulated for small and medium breeds is recommended. It is important to monitor portions to avoid overweight. Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids can be beneficial for skin and coat health. Fresh water should be available at all times to ensure proper hydration.

Training and obedience

The Tibetan Terrier is intelligent and receptive, which makes training easier. However, it can sometimes show independent character, requiring a consistent and patient training approach. Positive reinforcement methods, based on rewards and encouragement, are particularly effective with this breed. Early socialization is crucial to prevent shyness or excessive distrust towards strangers. Group training classes can also be beneficial in improving their social skills and obedience.

Behavior with children

The Tibetan Terrier is generally very good with children, thanks to its cheerful and affectionate temperament. He enjoys games and shows patience, making him an excellent companion for the youngest. However, due to his small size, it is important to teach children to interact with him in a respectful manner to avoid accidental injuries. Supervision is recommended to ensure safe interactions. With proper socialization, this dog can become a loving and protective member of the family.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The Tibetan Terrier is generally sociable and can get along well with other pets if properly socialized from a young age. Its friendly and playful temperament allows it to live harmoniously with other dogs and even with cats. However, as with any breed, introductions should be done gradually and under supervision to ensure peaceful cohabitation. Its non-aggressive and balanced nature makes it a good candidate for a home with multiple animals.

Grooming needs

The Tibetan Terrier requires regular grooming due to its long and dense coat. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent knots and tangles, as well as to maintain skin and coat health. Regular baths, about once a month, help keep its coat clean and shiny. Ears should be cleaned regularly to prevent infections, and claws should be trimmed periodically. Professional grooming may be needed to maintain a neat appearance and manage coat length.

Health

The Tibetan Terrier is a sturdy breed, but like all dogs, it can be prone to certain health conditions. Common problems include hip dysplasia, eye diseases such as cataracts, and some skin conditions. Regular health examinations and genetic tests can help identify and prevent these problems. A balanced diet, appropriate exercise, and regular veterinary care are essential to maintain overall health of this breed and ensure a long and healthy life.

Average price

The price of a Tibetan Terrier puppy can vary depending on the breeder, the puppy's lineage, and health tests performed. On average, the price range is between 1,200 and 2,000 euros, or approximately 1,300 to 2,200 US dollars. Puppies from champion lines or with particularly sought-after characteristics may cost more. It is important to choose a reputable breeder who practices ethical breeding and conducts health tests to ensure a healthy and well-balanced puppy.

Expenses

Annual expenses for a Tibetan Terrier include food, veterinary care, grooming, and accessories. On average, you can expect to spend around 1,000 to 1,500 euros (1,100 to 1,700 dollars) per year. This includes high-quality kibble, vaccines, veterinarian visits, parasite prevention products, professional grooming, and various accessories such as leashes, collars, and toys. Costs may vary depending on the region and the specific needs of each dog.

Name ideas

Naming your Tibetan Terrier can be a fun adventure. For example, "Lhamo" means "goddess" in Tibetan, which suits the nobility of the breed. "Tashi" means "good fortune" and reflects the luck this companion brings. "Yeti" evokes the snowy mountains of Tibet, while "Dolma" means "liberator", a tribute to the goddess Tara. "Karma" means "destiny", and "Lobsang" means "enlightened mind". "Nima" means "sun" in Tibetan, and "Pempa" is a flower name. "Bodhi" means "awakening" and "Tsomo" means "sea".

Legislation and regulation

In general, the Tibetan Terrier is not subject to any particular legislative restrictions. It is not considered a dangerous breed, which means it can be owned without specific legal constraints in most countries. However, it is always advisable to check local laws regarding dog ownership and ensure that all regulations regarding vaccines, licenses, and animal control are complied with. Good socialization and responsible behavior in public are also important to avoid any issues.

Official recognition

The Tibetan Terrier is officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) as well as by other international canine registries such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Kennel Club of the United Kingdom. In its country of origin, Tibet, the main organization for the breed is less formal, but the breed standards are maintained by international canine clubs. In Europe, the main organization for this breed is the "Club of Friends of the Tibetan Terrier". These clubs ensure the preservation and promotion of the unique characteristics of the breed.

Pedigrees

Pedigrees for the Tibetan Terrier are available from various national and international dog registries. These genealogical documents, provided by recognized breeders, trace the dog's lineage over several generations, ensuring the purity of the breed and health standards. When choosing a puppy, it is important to ask for and verify the pedigree to ensure the authenticity and quality of the breeding. In Europe, pedigrees are often issued by organizations such as the Société Centrale Canine (SCC) in France or the Kennel Club in the United Kingdom.

Destination and usage

The Tibetan Terrier has historically been used as a companion and guard dog in Tibetan monasteries. Today, it is mainly appreciated as a family dog because of its affectionate and balanced temperament. It also excels in dog sports such as agility and obedience due to its intelligence and responsiveness. Its vigilant nature also makes it a good guard dog. Due to its thick coat, it is well suited to cold climates, but can adapt to various environments with proper care.

Prohibitions

To date, the Tibetan Terrier is not banned in the vast majority of countries around the world. However, it is always wise to check local regulations as some countries may have specific restrictions regarding dog ownership, particularly vaccination and licensing requirements. It is also important to adhere to local laws regarding pets, especially when it comes to leash walking and picking up waste. With proper socialization and responsible behavior, the Tibetan Terrier can live harmoniously in almost any community.

Breeders of Tibetan terrier

Want to see more breeders of Tibetan terrier?

Check out the page of our directory listing all breeders of Tibetan terrier

Classified Ads of tibetan terrier

Breed clubs of tibetan terrier

Other of dogs breeds that start with a: T

Tornjak
Tatra shepherd dog
Tyrolean hound
Toy poodle
Transylvanian hound
Taiwan dog
Tibetan mastiff
Tibetan spaniel
Transmontano mastiff
Tamaskan
Terrier kerry blue
Thai ridgeback
Timber sheperd
Tosa
Return to the of dogs breed page
Page viewed times