Tibetan Mastiff Dog Breed

About the Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff (TM) is a primitive breed of great size and substance that has a dense, stand-off coat. This breed is very devoted to its family, but usually chooses one person who is their best friend.

The Tibetan Mastiff is a guardian breed that often acted independently with nomadic herders and outside monastery walls. They were often tied out in grasslands with yaks or goats, or placed near entrances to chase off predators like snow leopards. Thus, the TM may appear to be stubborn and aloof; needing to believe that training is his own idea rather than that of its owner/s.

AKC Group

Working

Height

24 – 26 inches

Weight

70 – 150 pounds

Lifespan

10 – 12 years

History of the Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff has a history steeped in legend. It is thought by some to be one of the most ancient breeds and the forbearer of all mastiff-type dogs. Ancient records from around 1100 BC mention large dogs in China, and these ancestors likely accompanied armies of the Assyrians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans.

Since few Westerners were permitted into Tibet before the 1800s, the Western world was largely unaware of this breed’s existence. The early British explorers brought attention to a giant breed of dog in the Himalayas. In 1873, the Royal Kennel Club officially recognized the breed. In the late 1950s, the President of the United States received two Tibetan Mastiffs, which were subsequently sent to the Midwest; however, despite research, further information has yet to become available. Since the 1970s, more dogs have been imported to the United States, and numerous litters are being whelped every year.

Their long history with humans has given Tibetan Mastiffs an almost uncanny “human” understanding. Unlike some breeds that are bred for their function, the TM evolved as a result of its function. Their role as guardians for thousands of years made them into loyal companions, unafraid to defend the herders they accompanied or the monasteries where they resided. Their role as guardians has shaped them into dogs with controlled strength, fearlessness, patience, loyalty, and gentleness. Their dense, double, stand-off coat gave them protection from the harsh elements of the Himalayas. Today, they are popular as companions and protectors around the world.

General Appearance

Height & Weight

The size of the Tibetan Mastiff is an essential characteristic of the breed. This fearless guardian must be at least 25 inches tall at the withers for males and 23 inches for females. Under this size is a disqualification in the American Breed Standard. The preferred range is 26 to 29 inches for males and 24 to 27 inches for females. Although there is no specified weight range, this breed can weigh well over 100 pounds.

Proportion & Substance

The breed should measure slightly longer than tall (10-9), (i.e., the length to height, measured from front to rear, is greater than the withers to ground). The Tibetan Mastiff should have remarkable substance in relation to its size, in bone, body, and muscle.

Coat Texture, Colors & Markings

Texture: Many Tibetan Mastiff owners were first attracted to the dense, double, stand-off coat. It is made up of fairly long, thick, coarse guard hair, with a heavy, soft undercoat. Hair is fine but hard and straight; never silky, curly or wavy. The heavy coat around the neck and shoulders gives a mane-like appearance. The tail has especially heavy feathering.

A Note About Color: Colors include Black, Brown, and Blue/Grey, all with or without tan markings, ranging from light silver to a rich mahogany, and Gold, with shades ranging from a pure golden to a rich red gold. White markings on the chest and feet are acceptable. Undercoat may be lighter shades of the dominant color. The undercoat on black and tan dogs also may be grey or tan. Sabling, other than wolf sable and sabling in a saddle-marked color pattern, is acceptable on gold dogs. Large white markings are to be faulted. Tan markings may appear at any or all of the following areas on all but Gold dogs: above eyes as spots, around eyes (including spectacle markings), on each side of the muzzle, on throat, on lower part of front forelegs and extending up the inside of the forelegs, on inside of rear legs showing down the front of the stifle and broadening out to the front of the rear legs from hock to toes, on breeches, and underside of tail.

Disqualifications – All other coat colors (e.g., white, cream, wolf sable, brindle and particolors) and markings other than those specifically described.

Head

The Tibetan Mastiff head and expression are hallmarks of the breed. The head is broad, strong with heavy brow ridges. The mature dog may have a single wrinkle from above the eyes around to the mouth. More wrinkle than that is severely faulted.

• Skull: Broad and large, with a strongly defined occiput. The backskull is flat, with prominent, bony brow ridges.
• Expression: A correct head and expression are essential to the breed. The expression is noble, intelligent, watchful, and aloof.
• Eyes: Deep-set, well apart, almond-shaped, and slightly slanting, the eye rims are tightly fitting at maturity. The eyes are very expressive, medium in size, and any shade of brown. The eye rims are black except in blue/grey and blue/grey & tan dogs, where they are the darkest possible shade of grey.
• Ears: The ears are medium in size, V-shaped, pendant, set-on high, dropping forward and hanging close to the head. Raised when alert and level with the top of the skull, they contribute to the fearless expression. The ear leather is thick, covered with soft, short hair, and when measured, should reach the inner corner of the eye.
• Muzzle: The Tibetan Mastiff muzzle is essential to the breed’s expression. It is broad, well filled and square when viewed from all sides. Its measurement from stop to end of nose is between one-half to one-third the length of the measurement from the occiput to stop. It should never be longer. The width of the skull from ear to ear is slightly greater than the length of the skull.
• Nose: Ideally, the nose is well pigmented, with broad, open nostrils. It should be black, except with blue/grey or blue/grey & tan dogs, then it should be the darkest shade of grey; and on brown dogs, it should be the darkest shade of brown.
• Bite: The Tibetan Mastiff has a scissors bite with complete dentition. A level bite is acceptable. The canine teeth are large and strong; broken teeth are not faulted. Disqualifications – Undershot or overshot bite.

Tail

Balancing the head, the tail is well feathered, medium to long, not reaching below the hock. It is set high on the line of the back. When alert or in motion, the tail is always carried curled over the back, but it may be carried down when the dog is relaxed.

The Tibetan Mastiff – What to Consider?

Choosing a Tibetan Mastiff as a companion requires extensive socialization for a longer period of time compared to other breeds. Regular walks and trips to various places take time and dedication.

The TM is highly intelligent and is easily bored, leading to destructive behaviors. Chewing and digging are his favorite activities as a youngster. With their strong jaws, they enjoy chewing and digging, often creating large holes that some owners humorously refer to as “new landscaping.”

New puppy owners should not be discouraged if their Tibetan Mastiff doesn’t sit, stay, or come like other puppies in class. Tibetan Mastiffs are not naturally obedient! These classes are as much for socialization as they are for training.

Tibetan Mastiff Health

Information from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and from breeders indicates that the Tibetan Mastiff is a relatively healthy breed. Their AKC parent club, the American Tibetan Mastiff Association, recommends only four health tests are needed, and the breed’s longevity extends into the double digits. This is quite good for a breed of such great size.

Lifespan: The Tibetan Mastiff can easily enjoy life for ten to twelve years. Although some succumb earlier, others enjoy more time well into their senior years.

Potential Health Risks

Typically the Tibetan Mastiff is a hardy breed; however, like all breeds and mixed breeds, they can be predisposed to certain health concerns. Some of the more common issues that are routinely tested for are:

• Hip Dysplasia: Hip Dysplasia is the incorrect development of the hip joint, caused by environmental and/or genetic factors. It can lead to arthritis and potential lameness in severe cases, but can be managed with medication and physical therapy. Evaluations accepted are OFA Radiographic Hip Evaluation or PennHIP Evaluation.
• Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia affects the elbow joint. It often results in pain and limping, but medication and therapy can be effective treatments. A radiograph for Elbow Dysplasia is optional but recommended.
• ACVO Eye Exam: This is an in-person eye exam by an American College of Veterinary Ophthalmology certified vet, and it is recommended annually.
• Autoimmune Thyroiditis: This is the most common cause of primary hypothyroidism in dogs. A simple blood test sent to an approved lab annually or bi-annually is recommended.

All test results should be submitted to the OFA registry for verification and submission to the OFA Database.

Tibetan Mastiff Personality

Tibetan Mastiffs make their own decisions, displaying a high level of cognitive ability that you will come to appreciate over time. They do not seek or need your approval. They will communicate when they need attention and when they desire it.

The TM is typically not always eager to please their owners. This trait is rooted in their development over thousands of years as guardians. They have learned survival instincts and how to read situations. When they are extremely determined to get their own way, it’s likely because they perceive something you don’t.

Due to centuries of being bred to guard flocks, homesteads, and monasteries, Tibetan Mastiffs tend to be “night barkers.” This behavior should be considered before making the commitment to own one, and whether it will sleep indoors or outdoors at night.

Tibetan Mastiff Feeding & Nutrition

Primitive breeds that evolved in difficult conditions survived in spite of not eating for four or even five days. Many Tibetan Mastiffs, particularly the males, are poor eaters.

Thyroid disease may contribute to eating issues in the breed. If the test results are normal, you can be relatively sure that your dog is a survivalist and will stay healthy despite a low food intake.

Proper nutrition is not just important, but essential for the TM’s vitality and longevity. A balanced and nutritious diet is the foundation of good health, so it’s crucial to feed a high-quality commercial dog food or a well-balanced homemade diet.

A healthy weight is crucial for the TM’s overall well-being. Portion sizes should be based on the dog’s age, activity level, and overall health.

The Tibetan Mastiff’s thick coat makes it susceptible to overheating. Fresh water should always be readily available, especially after meals and following any physical activity. In warmer climates, providing clean drinking water and a cool place to rest after mealtimes is particularly crucial.

Tibetan Mastiff Training

The Tibetan Mastiff is a fast learner. However, it’s crucial to understand that they need to know “why” before they will follow commands. They aren’t particularly motivated by food, so using treats as a training method might not be very effective.

Although obedience is not natural to the temperament of the TM, more and more of them successfully show in Obedience competitions. When training, begin with small, daily tasks such as nail trimming. This seemingly simple task not only accomplishes an essential grooming function, it also establishes an ongoing relationship of coexistence and cooperation between owner and companion.

Tibetan Mastiff Exercise

A Tibetan Mastiff needs a fenced yard, although the size does depend upon the individual dog. While they are an active dog out-of-doors, they are usually fairly quiet when in the house.

Forced exercise is not recommended. They are a self-exercising breed. Any forced exercise may lead to stress on the joints and intermittent or permanent lameness.

Tibetan Mastiff Grooming

The amount of time required for grooming depends on the quality of the coat. A stellar coat may only need weekly brushing (unless shedding, then daily brushing is required). That same coat may only require quarterly bathing.

A lesser coat, or that of a neutered Tibetan Mastiff (the TM may develop a softer and more profuse coat after neutering), may require quite a bit more brushing and bathing due to a coat that has more undercoat and retains stains, odors, and mats easily. Climate will also be a factor in the amount of care needed.

Routine ear cleaning, daily or weekly nail trimming, and daily tooth brushing are all part of keeping your dog healthy in all ways.

Living with a Tibetan Mastiff

Socialization is essential and ongoing for this breed. A beautiful and well-behaved Tibetan Mastiff is a treat to have around and an excellent advertisement for the breed.

The Tibetan Mastiff has a few unique traits. In spite of numerous success stories regarding formal Obedience training and competition, they are not always willing to please their owners.

The TM may be very determined to get its own way. The breed has cat-like behaviors; think big cat.

The Tibetan Mastiff was bred to guard, and guard he will. However, the owner must be the one to decide who comes and goes in the home. The Tibetan Mastiff tends to make decisions on his own, deciding who to guard and when, so be prepared to monitor friends and visitors entering the property that your dog thinks is his territory.

Tibetan Mastiff Puppies

The arrival of a litter of Tibetan Mastiff puppies is always thrilling for a preservation breeder. With their fluffy coats and playful behavior, these puppies can captivate anyone for hours as they interact with each other and their mother. With joy comes the responsibility to place the puppies in homes that understand the need for setting boundaries and socialization. Full of energy, TM puppies are eager to explore their environment and form strong bonds with their human families.

Caring for a Tibetan Mastiff Puppy

Socialization: It’s crucial to socialize your Tibetan Mastiff. Without proper socialization, including trips to town, playgrounds, and dog parks, your TM may become overly protective and difficult to manage by the age of two or three.

Tibetan Mastiff Activities & Dog Sports

The Tibetan Mastiff can enjoy participation in dog sports just as much as the next breed. Training should consider the breed’s independence as well as its intelligence. It is not naturally obedient or social. The Tibetan Mastiff is a fast learner, but strong-willed and sometimes stubborn.

Not all AKC activities are appropriate from the standpoint of a TM’s natural temperament. Most do well in Rally, advanced Obedience is challenging, but a growing number have been trained and compete successfully in AKC Obedience Trials. Many TMs enjoy Fast CAT, but avoid the temptation to start before they are fully mature.

• Obedience: Participation in Obedience Trials tests a dog’s ability to follow commands and signals. The Tibetan Mastiff’s personality is strong-willed and sometimes extremely stubborn. Although they are quite able to learn obedience, they must be convinced of the “why” around the repetitive exercises. Although the TM is fully capable of learning the exercises, they are not recommended for formal Obedience competition dogs.
• Rally Obedience: Rally has less rigid requirements than Obedience and offers TMs an opportunity to share time with their people in a fluid exercise. A naturally aloof breed, Rally may still challenge the owner more than the dog.
• Agility: This fast-paced sport channels the Tibetan Mastiff’s agility and intelligence. Navigating obstacle courses provides mental and physical challenges that support the dog and handler’s teamwork. It should be noted that, until the dog is fully mature, any jumping or high climbing should be left out of the routine. In addition, although naturally agile in some respects, caution should be taken when asking the dog to perform some of these tasks.
• AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC): This certification program is designed to reward Tibetan Mastiffs that can demonstrate good manners. It is a two-part program that emphasizes responsible pet ownership as well as good behavior. The well-socialized and well-trained TM is fully capable of achieving this certification.
• AKC Trick Dog: The AKC Trick Dog program has five levels: Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, Performer, and Elite Performer, although the occasional TM may be willing to perform a variety of entertaining tricks on command, this sport goes against the basic nature of the breed.
• Barn Hunt: In these events, dogs use their sense of smell to locate and signal the presence of a rat (safely enclosed in a protective tube) hidden in a course made of hay bales. This may be a fun way for Tibetan Mastiffs to engage their natural canine ability to scent and find quarry. However, this is not an innate predisposition for this breed.
• Conformation Shows: Tibetan Mastiffs often participate in Conformation Shows, where they are judged against the Breed Standard. Dog shows celebrate the breed’s physical attributes and temperament, and they promote responsible breeding practices.
• Tracking: In this sport, several levels of difficulty allow dogs to follow pre-plotted scent trails over various terrain and obstacles. Historically, the Tibetan Mastiff did not evolve as a tracker, though as an ancient canine, he has natural abilities on which to rely. The TM may, with the right motivation, enjoy this sport.
• Dock Diving: The occasional Tibetan Mastiff may enjoy diving off of a dock, although there was little swimming in the Himalayas. The question isn’t if the dog would enjoy or excel in this sport. Rather, the question is whether the owner wants to spend three hours drying the dog after it’s finished!

Engaging a Tibetan Mastiff in various activities and organized sports satisfies the dog’s desire to share experiences with its favorite person. Once the TM is given the “why,” he will provide the “how.”