Tibetan Terriers are called “little people” in Tibet, and are sometimes human-like in their discernment. The TT can be clever and even sneaky. They are discerning in relationships; your friends may or may not be their friends; however, they bond deeply to their families. In all cases, they maintain their survival instinct from the thousands of years in the extreme climate and varying altitudes of the Tibetan mountains.
AKC Group
Non-Sporting
Height
14 – 17 Inches
Weight
18 – 30 Pounds
Lifespan
12 – 17 Years
Highlights
Country of Origin
Tibet
Bred For
Caravan Dogs, Herding, Retrieving, Alerting to Danger or Stranger, Companionship
Known For
Beautiful Long Double Coat, Curled Tail, Loyal Nature
Popularity
Low to Moderate
Temperament
A steadfast and devoted companion in all of his owner’s endeavors, the Tibetan Terrier is highly intelligent, sensitive, loyal, devoted, and affectionate.
Activities
ALL activities are possible with the Tibetan Terrier. This breed can literally do anything for its owners and friends that you can think of: Retrieving, Running, Walking, Conformation Shows, Dog Sports. TTs, however, dislike water.
History of the Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan Terrier is the “Holy Dog of Tibet.” The breed’s history dates back over 2,000 years in the Lost Valley of Tibet in the Himalayan Mountains. It is called the Lost Valley because in the 14th Century, the access road was lost due to an earthquake.
To live in a location that has the harshest of climates and wide variations in elevation, the TT had to be versatile and rugged. They also had to be athletic and have a strong survival instinct. They were treated like children by the monks and families they lived with. They were called “the little people.” They were bred and raised for 2000 years by the monks in the monasteries.
The Tibetan Terrier was never sold. They were given as gifts to only the most important visitor and to people who performed an exceptionally kind deed. This is how the TT came to be in the outer world.
An English physician, Dr. Agnes R. H. Greig, was practicing medicine in India, just South of Tibet. In 1922, she saved a Tibetan woman’s life. With immense gratitude, Dr. Greig was gifted a Tibetan Terrier. She named the puppy Bunti.
Predictably, Dr. Greig wanted a TT to breed to her beloved Bunti, and so she started the Lamleh line of Tibetan Terriers. She moved to England and continued to breed generation after generation, proving the purity of the breed. Subsequently, in 1937, she was instrumental in getting the breed recognized by The Kennel Club (UK). The breed was officially called the Tibetan Terrier.
Of course, they are not true terriers as we know them today. We have the genetic testing to prove their purity. However, they are kin to numerous breeds from that region such as the Polish Lowland Sheepdog, the Puli, the Pumi, the Tibetan Spaniel and, of course, the Lhasa Apso and the Shih Tzu.
General Appearance
Height & Weight
The Tibetan Terrier’s average height is from 15 to 16 inches, with females slightly smaller. The breed may range from 14 to 17 inches. The average weight range for both males and females is 20 to 24 pounds; with a minimum of 18 pounds and maximum of 30 pounds for both sexes.
Proportion & Substance
Physically, the breed is squarely built and sturdy on an athletic frame underneath all that hair. They are capable of doing a 180-degree turn in the blink of an eye or scale a six-foot fence with equal agility.
Coat Texture, Color & Markings
Texture: The coat is long and double-coated; all colors are acceptable. Their profuse, double coat kept them warm in the high altitudes. As the story is told, each Spring, the locals would shear their coated pack animals, the sheep, and also the Tibetan Terriers, and create wool to make clothes and warm bedding. It is told that they would sew the children into their woolen clothes each winter to keep them warm!
Tibetan Terrier Colors
Standard Color
Black
ee
Black & White
ee
Black White & Gold
ee
White & Gold
ee
Gold & White
ee
Golden Brindle
ee
White
ee
White & Black
ee
Sable
ee
Brindle
ee
Gold
ee
Black & Gold
n
Brown & White
n
Silver
n
Silver & Black
n
Silver & White
n
Brindle & White
n
Brown
n
Fawn
n
Fawn & White
n
Gray
n
Black & Brown
n
Black & White Brindle
n
Black Brown & White
n
Sable & White
n
Gray & White
n
Red & White
n
Black Brown & White
n
Red Brindle
n
Black & Brindle
n
A Note About Color: All coat colors and combinations are acceptable. All markings are acceptable; however, note that the nose is always black.
Tibetan Terrier Markings
Standard Marking
White Markings
ee
Black Markings
ee
Black Points
n
Black Mask
n
Ticked
n
Sable
n
Head
Skull: The skull narrows slightly from ear to eye; it is not broad or coarse.
Expression: A fall of hair covers the eyes.
Eyes: Large, dark brown almost black; eye rims are dark.
Ears: The ears are pendant, heavily feathered, and V-shaped.
Muzzle: The lower jaw has a small amount of beard.
Nose: Black
Bite: A tight scissors bite, a tight reverse scissors bite, or a level bite are equally acceptable. A slightly undershot bite is also acceptable.
Tail
The tail falls forward over the back, and may curl to either side. It is set on fairly high and is profusely coated, presenting the balance of the head and tail.
The Tibetan Terrier – What to Consider?
Is a Tibetan Terrier right for you? Consider if the breed’s personality is in alignment with your own nature. Ask yourself what kind of time you have now, and will you have in the future, to care for a dog. Do you have the time and inclination to train a TT? Do you have the patience to work with a dog that has “creative thinking?” Are you sedentary or do you enjoy walking and hiking in all weather? Further considerations are the age of your children, whether you go off for lots of travels on weekends, and of course, whether you like to brush hair and care for the personal needs of a dog of the TT’s nature.
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals will vary. While some breeds may only show genuine warmth towards their owner, remaining standoffish with strangers, other breeds will treat everyone they meet as if they are their closest friend.
IndependentAffectionate
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed. Although supervision is always recommended during introductions, certain breeds tend to be inherently more or less sociable with other dogs, whether in a home setting or in public spaces.
Not RecommendedReliable With Other Dogs
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children, and its overall suitability as a family member, will vary. It is important to always supervise interactions between dogs and the kids in the house, as well as with children who are not accustomed to being around dogs.
Not RecommendedDependable With Children
Upkeep
Amount Of Shedding
The amount of hair that a dog sheds will typically depend on its breed. Heavy-shedding breeds require more frequent brushing, have a higher chance of activating specific allergies, and often necessitate more frequent use of the vacuum cleaner and lint rollers.
LowHigh
Frequency Of Grooming
The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat care is an all-important consideration. When evaluating the grooming effort required, consider your available time, patience, and budget. It is important to note that all breeds need routine ear, teeth, and nail care.
MonthlyDaily
Amount Of Drooling
The tendency of a breed to drool significantly varies from breed to breed. For those who prefer cleanliness or are particular about keeping things tidy, breeds that are likely to leave trails of drool on your arm or large slobbery marks on your clothing and furniture might not be the best fit.
LowHigh
Coat Type
smooth
wiry
hairless
rough
corded
double
curly
wavy
sikly
Coat Length
short
medium
long
Behavior
Acceptance Of New People
The likelihood of a breed to be friendly towards strangers will vary. While some breeds may consistently exhibit reserve or caution around unfamiliar people, regardless of the setting, others are often eager to greet and interact with any new person they meet.
ReservedOutgoing
Protective Nature
The propensity of a dog to notify you of the presence of strangers is breed-dependent. Some breeds are more inclined to respond to any perceived threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, most breeds are generally more accepting of strangers who are welcomed by their human family members.
Minimal InterestMaximum Vigilance
Playfulness Level
The likelihood of a breed remaining playful beyond puppyhood will vary. Certain breeds retain their enthusiasm for activities like tug-of-war or games of fetch well into their adult years, whereas others are more content to simply lounge on the sofa with you for the majority of time.
LowHigh
Adaptability Level
The ease with which a breed can adapt to changes in its environment can vary greatly. This adaptability encompasses how well a breed is likely to cope with alterations to its home and yard, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines, and other fluctuations in everyday life.
LowHigh
Personality
Trainability Level
The ease with which a dog can be trained and its eagerness to learn new skills can depend on the breed. Some breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and will readily accept training, while others tend to follow their own desires, often showing independence in how, when, and where they choose to do things.
StubbornEager
Barking Level
The frequency of vocalization, including barking and howling, will vary from breed to breed. Some may bark at each person who passes by and every bird in the sky, while others will typically bark only for a good reason. Additionally, a few breeds that do not typically bark will still be vocal, using different sounds to communicate.
QuietVocal
Energy Level
The level of physical exercise and mental engagement required will depend on the breed. High-energy breeds are always on the go. They are enthusiastic about their next activity and tend to be busy most of the time, running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to couch potatoes, content to just lounge around and take naps throughout the day.
Couch PotatoBusybody
Need For Mental Stimulation
The extent of mental stimulation needed to keep a dog content and healthy will vary by breed. Dogs bred for specific purposes may need tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs can resort to creating their own activities to engage their minds, resulting in unwanted behaviors like chewing, digging, and escaping.
Minimal EngagementIntensive Interaction
Tibetan Terrier Health
The Tibetan Terrier is overall a healthy breed. However, occasionally there are individuals with health problems that require extra care. Consider whether you are inclined to care for a dog, for possibly an extended period of time, that may have a health issue.
Lifespan: Happily, the TT usually lives from 12-17 years! In rare cases they may die younger from one of the potential health risks listed below.
Potential Health Risks
Although there is a list of recommended tests for TTs, the breed tends to be quite healthy overall. Here are the conditions that are recommended by the Tibetan Terrier Club of America for your TT. All results should be registered with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). All tests are non-invasive and painless.
Hip Dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joint that can cause pain and lameness in your dog. It is checked by a simple radiograph or PennHIP Evaluation.
ACVO Eye Exam should be performed annually. This exam is similar to our ophthalmology exams but performed by a veterinary ophthalmologist. The back of the eye is examined through a light/scope instrument to see if there are any anomalies in the eye.
Patellar Luxation is when the dog’s kneecap moves and doesn’t keep the lower thigh in line with the upper thigh. Your dog’s regular veterinarian will perform a simple procedure to check for this condition, and send a report to the OFA.PRA – rcd4 DNA-based PRA RCD4 (P4) test from an approved laboratory. Results are registered with OFA.
PRA TYPE 3. DNA-based PRA Type 3 (P3) are determined through test results from an approved laboratory. Results are registered with OFA.
Congenital Deafness can include one of the following:
B.A.E.R. Hearing Test. Results are registered with OFA.
GDC Evaluation based on BAER test. Results are registered with OFA.
Primary Lens Luxation. DNA-based PLL test results are from an approved laboratory. Results are registered with OFA.
NEURONAL CEROID LIPOFUSCINOSIS (NCL). DNA-based NCL test results are from an approved laboratory. Results are registered with OFA.
Elbow Dysplasia. OFA Radiographic Elbow Evaluation is optional but recommended.
Autoimmune Thyroiditis. Testing is optional but recommended. Evaluation is from an approved lab. Results are registered with OFA.
Pituitary Dwarfism. Testing is optional but recommended. DNA-based Pituitary Dwarfism test results are from an approved laboratory. Results are registered with OFA.
Tibetan Terrier Personality
The Tibetan Terrier is a free spirit. These dogs are often aloof with strangers but completely devoted to family members and friends. True to their roots, they have a strong instinct to alert their loved ones to any perceived or possible intruders. Blessed with keen eyesight, they can spot anything out of place in their territory from meters, or even kilometers, away, and will instantaneously alert with their own cacophonous sound. Harkening back to their mountainous origins in Tibet, they love to perch in the highest place in the house or yard to scan everything in sight.
Tibetan Terrier Feeding & Nutrition
There is not just one right way to feed your Tibetan Terrier. For centuries, this breed lived in the Himalayan Mountains where the weather and terrain were demanding. They survived on what they were fed by the herders, villagers, and Lamas. They maintain this ability in the present day, but require a balanced diet with proper nutrition to have optimal health. Check with your breeder and veterinarian to see what’s right for your dog. Make sure to have regular checkups with your veterinarian.
Tibetan Terrier Training
So-called obedience training is an art with a TT. These dogs are usually better at training you with their wily ways than you will ever dream of being a trainer to them. They are so endearing that you will find them on your sofa in no time, regardless of any house rules you may have previously had in place with other dogs. Socialization is a must, as is positive reinforcement training. Keep on top of the behaviors that are important to your household. Teach your TT to come, sit, down, heel, and stay. These are the basics of a great relationship.
Tibetan Terrier Exercise
Tibetan Terriers love to run, jump, leap, and run some more. It’s best to have a secure six-foot fence, and plan to play with your dog in the yard. It’s not uncommon for a TT to scale a chain-link fence with ease. This is not a breed you can allow off-lead, or you may never see it again. Even obedience-trained dogs cannot be trusted on their own. All hikes should be on lead, whether in a state park or the wilderness.
Exercise Expectations
Energy Level
Moderate to high energy level, though they are happy to sleep at your feet while you work. They will expect some joyful interaction afterward.
There is a lot of grooming involved with this breed. Regular brushing, always weekly and sometimes daily, is required to maintain the coat. Depending on your personal hygienic requirements and the amount of time the dog spends outdoors, weekly to monthly bathing will be necessary. If you cannot bathe and dry the dog at home, you may need to visit a grooming shop for bathing or cutting down the coat. In this breed, matting is real! Regular trips to the groomer will be required to keep the coat short and manageable.
Grooming Expectations
Coat Type
Double, Long
Grooming Requirements
Daily brushing, until the adult coat is fully present, should be expected, though some dogs need only weekly brushing; weekly bathing, though some dogs do well with monthly baths; monthly trimming; routine ear cleaning; weekly nail trimming; regular tooth brushing.
Living with a Tibetan Terrier
There is never a dull moment with a Tibetan Terrier! Although they are the Holy Dog of Tibet and referred to by Tibetans as “the little people” because of how they fit into the home like a member of the family, they can be as sneaky and mischievous as young children at times! This isn’t the breed for everyone, but it is perfect for those who live a creative and serendipitous life. People who own a Tibetan Terrier are often reclusive or artistic, perhaps entrepreneurial in nature, much like this breed. When the breed is right for someone, it’s a match for life. Sometimes, even more conventional owners find life with a Tibetan Terrier expansive and enriching, making it a match made in heaven.
Tibetan Terrier Puppies
Tibetan Terrier puppies are one of the most adorable breeds! They are athletic almost from the time they can walk. They are light on their feet and fly through the air with the greatest of ease. And yet, these puppies need special care to keep them safe from their own antics. They are fearless and know no boundaries. They must be taught how to respect the things that could endanger their lives. It is our job to keep them safe by watching over them with vigilance.
Caring for a Tibetan Terrier Puppy
A word to the wise: care for your puppy as if it were a little person: love it, cuddle it, and set clear boundaries from Day One. Your puppy will require play time, rest time in a safe location like a crate, good quality food and fresh water. Keep training times short (5-10 minutes), including time to touch your dog affectionately.
Tibetan Terrier Activities & Dog Sports
Tibetan Terriers are capable of performing every sport available, with caution required around the Dock Diving option. TTs typically don’t like water, and they can hold a grudge if you force them to participate in a sport which they resent. Tap each link below to find out more.
The Tibetan Terrier is recognized by the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:
International Organizations
Organization
Group Designation
AKC (American Kennel Club)
Non-Sporting
UKC (United Kennel Club)
Companion Dog
CKC (Canadian Kennel Club)
Non-Sporting
ANKC (Australian National Kennel Council)
Non Sporting
RKC (The Royal Kennel Club)
Utility
FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale)
Group 9, Companion and Toy Dogs; Section 5: Tibetan Breeds
The ideal Tibetan Terrier is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:
Purebred dogs are supported by breed club members who dedicate their efforts to the betterment and preservation of specific breeds. For the Tibetan Terrier, national clubs in various countries play a pivotal role in maintaining the Breed Standards, organizing events, and disseminating information to club members and potential owners alike. They are an all-in-one resource for all Tibetan Terrier fanciers.
In the United States, the Tibetan Terrier Club of America is the AKC-recognized parent club for the breed in America. Founded in 1957, the club and its members are committed to promoting responsible breeding practices, upholding the organization’s by-laws, and organizing National Specialty shows as well as other social and competitive events.
In Canada, the Tibetan Terrier Club of Canada leads in serving the breed’s needs. Similar to its American counterpart, this association is dedicated to the welfare of the breed, fostering education, and hosting events that celebrate the unique characteristics of these extraordinary dogs.
In the United Kingdom, the Tibetan Terrier Association is the breed’s parent club. Established 1967, the organization offers a platform for breeders and owners to connect and compete. It actively champions the betterment of the breed’s health and welfare with its own UK Coordinator.
Membership or affiliation with these clubs provides Tibetan Terrier enthusiasts access to a wealth of knowledge, regional and national events, and a community that shares a common love for this ancient Oriental breed.
Tibetan Terrier Rescue Groups
USA RESCUE
The TTCA Rescue program attempts to find homes for Tibetan Terriers that for one reason or another could no longer stay in their previous homes. In an ideal world, there would not be any need for rescue, but in the real world there are occasionally TTs available for adoption from the club’s rescue program.
The Tibetan Terrier Club of Canada is dedicated to the welfare of all purebred Tibetan Terriers. Despite being a small club with members scattered across the country, the organization’s members are committed to assisting in re-homing TTs that can no longer stay in their current homes. If you have or know of a Tibetan Terrier in need of a new home, or if you are interested in adopting a rescued Tibetan Terrier, please reach out to the rescue team at nikki@tibetanterriercanada.com.
UK RESCUE
The Tibetan Terrier Association Welfare and Rescue has a UK Coordinator so that dogs who are surrendered can get to the closest point of contact as soon as possible. The TTA Welfare and Rescue provides support, rehoming services, and education for those interested in adopting “the little people.” Adopting a rescued TT is a rewarding experience, giving a loving home to a dog that truly needs it. It may take some time for the dog to settle in, but when it does, you will have a valued addition to your home.
CONTACT
Miss B P Stringer – Coordinator
Kent & South East
01474 832557
07730 921331
Tibetan Terrier Facts
The Tibetan Terrier has a unique, flat, snowshoe foot. The digits are flexible and long.
There are two styles of this breed: the so-called Monastery style and the Herding style. The Monastery style lies at the lighter, smaller end of the Breed Standard. These dogs were usually left in the monasteries for breeding and as alert dogs. They were typically under the average height of 15-16 inches and under 20 pounds, yet above the 14-inch, 18-pound minimum. Dogs at the higher end of the Standard, usually above the average 15-16 inches and 18-24 pounds, dogs that are up to 17 inches and 30 pounds, are of the Herding style. Both styles are valid within the Breed Standard, though not specifically mentioned.
The Tibetan Terrier is a fun-loving, happy-go-lucky dog that loves to run and play. Each has its own personality, from sensitive and quiet to bold and sometimes somewhat noisy.
Raised alone or in a group, Tibetan Terriers are adaptable (remember, they have been survivors for centuries.)
Since Tibetan Terriers can live for 18 years, taking one on is not a matter to take lightly. But you will be delighted if you do choose one. They will make you laugh and smile, if you let them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a Tibetan Terrier’s personality like?
The Tibetan Terrier is a free spirit. These dogs are often aloof with strangers but completely devoted to family members and friends. True to their roots, they have a strong instinct to alert their loved ones to any perceived or possible intruders. Blessed with keen eyesight, they can spot anything out of place in their territory from meters, or even kilometers, away, and will instantaneously alert with their own cacophonous sound. Harkening back to their mountainous origins in Tibet, they love to perch in the highest place in the house or yard to scan everything in sight.
Do Tibetan Terriers need training?
The Tibetan Terrier is a clean dog and is generally easy to housetrain. Like all puppies, you’ll need to keep valuables out of their reach at first. Using a crate when you can’t supervise them is advisable. Obedience training with a Tibetan Terrier is an art form. They are often more adept at training you with their clever antics than you are at training them. Their charm will quickly have them on your sofa, regardless of any house rules you may have enforced with other dogs.
Does a Tibetan Terrier need socialization?
Socialization and positive reinforcement training are essential. Stay on top of the behaviors that are important to your household. Fifteen minutes a day is plenty of time for practicing sit, stay, and walking on a lead. Be sure to keep the front door closed, and regularly “proof” your dog to “stay” before crossing that threshold.
Are Tibetan Terriers good family dogs?
The Tibetan Terrier typically wants to be with the family. Sometimes, the breed’s herding instinct will come out and they’ll want all family members to be in the same room or location. Although they have an independent streak, don’t assume your dog will be content spending hours alone while you’re at work all day or off to the beach without them. Plan on spending a good portion of your day and evening within proximity of your Tibetan Terrier.
Does the Tibetan Terrier need exercise?
Tibetan Terriers love to run, jump, leap, and run some more. It’s best to have a secure six-foot fence, and plan to play with your dog in the yard. It’s not uncommon for a TT to scale a chain-link fence with ease. This is not a breed you can allow off-lead, or you may never see it again. Even obedience-trained dogs cannot be trusted on their own. All hikes should be on-lead, whether in a state park or out in the wilderness. Oddly enough, with regular walks, the TT can do quite well with a small yard or even an apartment.
Are Tibetan Terriers good with children?
Homes with older children who can understand household rules and limits are the best option for the TT. Babies and young children must be supervised and never left alone with your puppy or dog. The more independent Tibetan Terrier may want its own space and may want to get away from the actions of very young household members.
Does the Tibetan Terrier shed?
The long, profuse coat of the adolescent and adult Tibetan Terrier primarily sheds within itself rather than falling out like other types of coats. However, it does shed during coat changes between age progressions and seasons. This type of shedding causes matting that may require 15-30 minutes of daily brushing.
Does the Tibetan Terrier need to be groomed?
Regular brushing, always weekly and sometimes daily, is required to maintain the coat. Depending on your personal hygienic requirements and the amount of time the dog spends outdoors, weekly to monthly bathing will be necessary. If you cannot bathe and dry the dog at home, you may need to visit a grooming shop for bathing or cutting down the coat. In this breed, matting is real! Regular trips to the groomer will be required to keep the coat short and manageable.
Is the Tibetan Terrier good for people with allergies?
If you or a household member has allergies, a Tibetan Terrier may aggravate them less than other shedding dogs, but they do shed. Try testing your allergies on several occasions with at least one adult TT and at different stages of bathing. If your adult Tibetan Terrier spends a lot of time with you outdoors, grasses and pollens may stick to the coat and further aggravate your allergies.
Still Think the Tibetan Terrier is Right for You?
It’s beneficial to talk to as many people as you can about the breed. Seek out insights from different breeders and owners. Attend dog shows, ask questions, and read the many books available on the breed. When you’re ready, find a reputable breeder or possibly consider contacting the Tibetan Terrier Rescue in your area. While this breed isn’t for everyone, many devoted owners believe no other breed can equal the TT. Once you have a Tibetan Terrier, you may find it hard to imagine life without one of these charming, creative companions. If you believe in soulmates, you may find yours in a Tibetan Terrier.
Lee Whittier
Ms. Lee Whittier has been involved in the sport of purebred dogs for over three decades. Her involvement began as an owner, exhibitor and, subsequently, a breeder of Rottweilers. She has owned Akitas, Bullmastiffs, and a Sussex Spaniel. She currently owns, breeds, and exhibits Tibetan Terriers. Ms. Whittier began judging in 2000, and then took a hiatus for several years to work for the American Kennel Club as an Executive Field Representative in the Pacific Northwest. She returned to judging in 2011, and currently judges the Working, Terrier, Toy, and Non-Sporting Groups, seventeen Hound Breeds, ten Sporting Breeds, Bouvier des Flandres, and Best in Show. Ms. Whittier has judged dog shows around the world, from the United States, Canada, South America, and Asia, at shows large and small; all of great importance to each and every exhibitor. Some of the larger shows are Westminster Kennel Club, Kennel Club of Philadelphia, Del Valle Dog Club of Livermore, Great Western Terrier Association, Northern California Terrier Association, Hatboro Dog Club, Inc., Malibu Kennel Club, and the Kennel Club of Palm Springs. Ms. Whittier is a standing member of Dog Fanciers of Oregon, The Central Florida Cairn Terrier Club, Columbia River Cairn Terrier Association, and the Tibetan Terrier Club of America. As an active member in numerous clubs, she has worked in the capacity of Show Chair, President, Vice-President, Secretary, Board Member, and Constitution & By-Laws Revision Committee Member. In addition to judging, Ms. Whittier developed the Dog Show Mentor program, exclusively for owner handlers. This is an online program where owner handlers of all stages and levels learn to develop an individual, strategic approach to showing dogs. She also travels to speak to owner handlers all over the world. She currently lives in Vancouver, Washington, with her husband, Wayne, and their three Tibetan Terriers. Her other interests include gardening and hiking with the dogs.
