Description:

The Tibetan Mastiff is a strong-willed, independent, and a breed that's highly devoted to its family. These dogs are rated as courageous and a excellent watchdog, often seen to be aggressive and very territorial with unfamiliar dogs and strangers.

A Tibetan Mastiff is in need of early socialization with other people and animals so not to grow to be anxious or overly suspicious. Tibetan's can be great with children, although these dogs might guard against others visiting its home.

History Of The Tibetan Mastiff Care:

The origins of the Tibetan Mastiff date back to Ancient times, in Tibet. It early function was as a trusted guardian. Today's dogs are still effective as a devoted guardian and companion or family pet.

The early roots of the Tibetan Mastiff aren't entirely clear, although, archaeological evidence does indicate that a large breed was believed to exist in 1100 B.C. China. Studies dictate that dogs traveled with Genghis Khan and Attila the Hun, which aided in creating the breeds base in Central Asia.

The Tibetan Mastiff breeds functioned as a guard to villages, monasteries and campsites for nomadic citizens. Throughout the day, dogs known as a village sentry were kept chained up to gates and rooftops, than left to roam more freely at nights to guard the villages.

These dogs where keep in relative isolation throughout this period and hardly known outside Tibet until 1874. It was at the time that researches believe a Tibetan Mastiff was gifted to Queen Victoria from the Viceroy of India. The breed soon rose in popularity, with a breed standard established via the Tibetan Breed Association of England.

The breeds population took a drastic drop when China attacked Tibet in the 1950's. The breed was able to survive due to it fleeing to local mountains, and escaping to neighboring countries. Enough of these dogs survived for a successful breeding program to complete, with the breed arriving in the United States in the 1970's. It wasn't until 2005, that the Tibetan Mastiff was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Tibetan Mastiff Care:

A dog that's calm and quiet within its home, and often very active once outside. Exercise for a Tibetan Mastiff can consist of a few quick walks on a leash as well as some vigorous games and fun in a secure yard.

Ideal living arrangements for these dogs is to have a spacious area to roam throughout the day, without this these dogs will soon become frustrated and destructive. A Tibetan Mastiff doesn’t cope that well in warm climate conditions, and preferred cooler climates. Grooming is a good brushing two to three times per week to maintain its heavy coat.

Health Information:

Health concerns seen with a Tibetan Mastiff include entropion, seizures, and canine inherited demyelinative neuropathy. Vets recommend that these dogs are checked for thyroid and hip related problems.

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