Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff is a very large dog that stands anywhere from 25 to 29 inches at the withers. It is a powerful, muscular breed with a very robust structure. The head is massive and resembles that of a bear. The body of a Tibetan Mastiff is longer than it is tall. Tibetan Mastiffs have a dense, thick coat of medium length. Around the neck the hair is longer, which makes it appear as if the dog has a mane. The strong and furry tail is plumed, and held over the Tibetan Mastiff’s back. These dogs can come in a number of colors and combinations, but for show accepted Tibetan Mastiff colors are black, brown, blue, tan and gray. The life expectancy of a Tibetan Mastiff ranges from 10 – 14 years, which is quite long for a dog of this size.

The Tibetan Mastiff is not recommended for apartment life, because of its large size and weight. However, this breed can be kept indoors in a house as long as they get enough exercise, but since they like to climb and dig it is imperative to have a secure fenced-in yard. These dogs do not need a lot of exercise each day, though, and once they have had some activity do not get rambunctious in the home. In fact, the Tibetan Mastiff should not be over-exercised, because it is not good for its joints. The Tibetan Mastiff should be brushed regularly and even more brushing is required when these dogs lose their thick winter fur. This breed is ideal for those that have allergies since it does not aggravate the condition.

The Tibetan Mastiff is a loyal, wonderful family pet that is excellent and loving towards children. It is an outstanding guard and watch dog, though, and is not accepting of strangers. It is fearless, brave and is ready to protect its family from any dangers, which can make it hard to have people over for a visit. This breed is also known for being very territorial, but can do well with other dogs if they are of a different sex. If two males are to be kept in one home, it is necessary for them to be neutered to reduce the drive to be dominant. They are difficult to train and need someone who can be a pack leader at all times. The Tibetan Mastiff is stubborn, thoughtful and intelligent and if it wants to do something, then it usually will.

Today, the Tibetan Mastiff makes an excellent family and guard dog even though it is an ancient breed that was originally more wild than domesticated. However, despite breeding attempts to create more docile dogs, this independent nature is very strong and apparent in the breed.
Since this is a very old breed, it is not easy to say exactly where they originated from. However, according to records they were first noted in China and the Himalayan mountain regions like Nepal where it was a guard dog for families and animal flocks.

The Tibetan Mastiff must not get too much exercise while it is growing, because that is too much for the joints and bones to handle and damage can be caused. The Tibetan Mastiff suffers from a rare and unusual hereditary problem known as CIDN, or Canine Inherited Demyelinative Neuropathy. This is deadly and puppies die from it before they reach 4 months of age. Other than that, the normally healthy Tibetan Mastiff is prone to more common conditions like hip dysplasia, skin conditions, thyroid problems and ear infections.

Breeders Domain offers a direct connection to quality, responsible Tibetan Mastiff Breeders in the United States and Canada. We have an extensive directory of Tibetan Mastiff Puppies for Sale and Tibetan Mastiff Breeders. The majority of our Tibetan Mastiff Breeders offer health guarantees and nationwide shipping of their puppies to approved homes. Breeders Domain is also an excellent source of information about the Tibetan Mastiff breed, general health concerns and photos of Tibetan Mastiff puppies and adults.