Coat:
Fairly long, thick and double coated.
Colors:
Black, brown and blue/gray, all with or without tan markings, and various shades of gold.
Personality:
A large, intimidating dog who takes his job of guardian seriously, the Tibetan Mastiff also has a soft and companionable side. His strength and fearlessness are tempered with loyalty and devotion. He is extremely protective of those he loves and needs an experienced owner who understands how to train and socialize him properly. He is tuned in to the emotions and feelings of his family. The Tibetan Mastiff is playful and cuddly as a puppy and will benefit from lots of interaction with family members and participation in family activities.
At home:
The Tibetan Mastiff does not typically do well in an apartment. He needs space and is amazingly agile when it comes to escaping from confining areas. He must be kept on a leash at all times when not in a secured area, as it is not likely that he will come when called. A fenced-in yard is necessary. He can be active outdoors but typically settles down inside. The Tibetan Mastiff prefers the cold and will tend to slow down and eat less in very hot weather.
Recommended activities:
The Tibetan Mastiff can do well at obedience and conformation. It is not recommended that he be used as a livestock guardian.
Exercise:
Because he's slow to mature, it's important not to overexert the growing Tibetan Mastiff. He must have room to romp, and he should be exercised regularly, but being big doesn't mean that he has to be exercised with great intensity.
Feeding:
Some Tibetan Mastiffs can be picky eaters, especially the males. They should be fed a high-quality food twice a day.
Training:
The Tibetan Mastiff's long history with humans has almost programmed him to understand what is expected of him by those who care for him. On the other hand, his strong guardian instincts make him naturally aloof with strangers, so he can seem to be shy or fearful when he is simply assessing the situation. He is an independent thinker and a large dog, and training him requires respect and understanding.
Compatibility:
The Tibetan Mastiff is naturally suspicious of strangers. He likes children but must be socialized from an early age to accept strange children. He can get along with other pets when socialized to them but may be territorial with strange dogs.
Health:
The average life span of the Tibetan Mastiff is 13 to 16 years. Breed health concerns may include hip dysplasia; skin problems; and thyroid problems.
Grooming blurb:
The Tibetan Mastiff's thick double coat needs regular attention. It should be brushed regularly with a slicker brush to keep shedding under control, and during shedding season (spring/summer), he may need to be brushed every day.
Disclaimer:
Copyright by T.F.H. Publications, Inc. This document has been published with the intent to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter within. While every reasonable precaution has been taken in preparation of this document, the author and publisher expressly disclaim responsibility for any errors, omissions, or adverse effects arising from the use or application of the information contained herein. The techniques and suggestions are used at the reader's discretion.
