Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff is one of the few breeds that have retained the wolf-like characteristic of the females, having only one season a year. They are also considered to be hypoallergenic and lack the doggy odor that many breeds have.

History:

The Tibetan Mastiff originated in the central tableland of Asia in the 900s. It is a mountain dog which is thought to be the ancestral stock of today's European Mastiff breeds. It was also found in Syria and Arabia, and is now spread throughout the world, including the US, Canada, Europe and Australia.

The Tibetan Mastiff was originally used as a flock guardian. This breed was prized for its bravery and immense size; Marco Polo was reputed to have been impressed by these dogs, writing that they were as big as donkeys. It is reported that Tibetan Mastiffs were presented to Alexander by an Asiatic king to help combat lions and elephants, and that they were favored by the Romans.

Physical characteristics:

The Tibetan Mastiff is a well-built and heavy breed with a relatively broad and well-proportioned head. Height: 22 - 28 in (56 - 71 cm) at the shoulders. Weight: 120 - 140 lb (55 - 82 kg), although dogs as heavy as 220 lb (99 kg) have been reported.

Their medium-sized ears are set on the side and hang close to the head, giving the dog a somewhat bear-like appearance. The almond-shaped eyes are usually amber to dark brown. The body is strong and well-muscled, and slightly longer than tall. The tail is set on high and reaches to the hock when the dog is relaxed, but curls up over the back or slightly to one side when the dog is alert.

The double coat is weather-resistant with a medium-length outer coat and an undercoat that changes in density depending on climate. The Tibetan Mastiff has longer hair on the neck and shoulder to form a mane that is more pronounced in males than females. There is no restriction on coat color, all colors and variations, including white markings, are acceptable.

Behavior:

The Tibetan Mastiff is a truly magnificent dog. This hugely powerful animal normally has a gentle temperament. There is very little in life to scare the adult Tibetan Mastiff, so it has a calm confident manner about it. Although it is rarely used in this capacity nowadays, the Tibetan Mastiff makes an excellent guard dog. It has a keen sense of territory and readily assumes control of its owner's herds and possessions. Tibetan Mastiffs are now generally kept as companion animals. They happily fit in with families as long as they are kept under strict control as puppies. Naturally with a dog of this size, small children should not be left alone with them. These dogs benefit from regular exercise and delight in performing tasks for their owners.