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Tibetan Mastiff
Breed origin: Tibet
Original purpose: Family and property guardian.
AKC recognized: 2006
AKC group: Working
Size:
Weight: 100 to 160 lbs
Size: Height: males 26 to 31 inches;
females 24 to 29 inches
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Color: Black, brown, and blue/grey, all with or without tan markings, and various shades of gold. Some may have white markings on breast and feet.
Life span: 10 to 14 years.
General characteristics/temperament: The Tibetan Mastiff is powerful, alert, intelligent, independent, strong willed, and reserved. They are aloof with strangers and very protective of their family and property. Some will not permit any friends or visitors from entering the house. Although highly intelligent, they can be extremely stubborn and might be challenging to obedience train. Most will not come when called, and do not do well in organized canine sports, althought there are some exceptions. They are laid back indoors, but are more active outdoors. A large fenced yard is required. Because they tend to be night barkers, they should be kept inside at night if there are neighbors in close proximity. Natural guardians and highly territorial, they must be well socialized with people and other animals from an early age. Puppies and young dogs can be very destructive. They have exceptionally strong jaws, and have been known to chew through even concrete foundations.
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Good with children? Yes with children in their own family, but may not tolerate other children who come over to play.
Protective? Yes
OK for inexperienced owners? No
OK in apartments? No
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Intelligent? Yes
Easy to train? No
Energy/Activity Level: Low/Moderate
Grooming requirement: The thick double coat needs to be brushed daily during shedding season which lasts about six weeks once or twice a year.
Known health problems: Hypothyroidism, entropion, ectropion, allergies, epilepsy, progressive retinal atrophy, catacts, ear infections, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, demodex, malocclusion, cardiac problems.
Additional photos of Tibetan Mastiff
Recommended books for further reading:
Other websites for additional information:
American Kennel Club breed page
American Tibetan Mastiff Association
Wikipedia breed information page
American Tibetan Mastiff Association Rescue
DogBreedMatch
