Tibetan Mastiff Breed
Information
Information and History:
The
Tibetan Mastiff is an ancient breed of dog from Central
Asia. It is one of the world’s oldest pure bred dogs
originating from the Tibetan plateau and surrounding Himalayan
region and dates back to almost three thousand years. For
many centuries these dogs guarded Tibetan monasteries,
flocks and villages. Their loud barking made them the ideal
watchdog.
There is much mystique surrounding the Tibetan Mastiff.
The legendary creature of cold, harsh environs with its
powerful appearance and noble character holds great prominence
in Tibetan culture and history. The TM was a family member,
a protector of livestock and a frightening ‘gatekeeper’ of
the village.
The Tibetan Mastiff, belonging to the Molosser group of
dog was introduced to the western world in the 19th century
and western breeding began in the 1970s. TMs are now owned
and loved across the world. The person who respects the
breeds' independence and sense of self will suit the TM
character and from there mutual respect and admiration
will grow and a very strong bond will endure.
Appearance:
The Tibetan Mastiff is a powerfully built dog of unrivaled
presence. The manner in which he holds himself – with
dignity, the way he stands – steady, firm and strong
and his ‘in control’, calm manner all add to
the vision of this dog.
Rarely
will you see a dog with more magnetism and utter confidence.
Other breeds may be larger in size, yet seem smaller in
stature. A true TM will have onlookers mesmerized.
The coat which is shed once a year, generally in late
spring or early summer, comes in a variety of colours;
black, black and tan, various shades of gold and gold sable
and varied tones of grey. Markings of grey or tan often
appear above the eyes, the chest, lower parts and fore
and hind legs and the underside of the tail. The tail with
its plume-like feathery appearance is an impressive feature
of the Tibetan Mastiff as is the thick rough around the
neck and shoulders.
The general appearance of the TM is powerful, heavy, well
built, with good bone, impressive; of solemn but kindly
appearance.
Size:
The minimum height at shoulder for Males is 26 inches
66 cms and females: 24 inches 61 cms. There is no upper
limit.
There is no limit of weight.
Given their size, the life span of the Tibetan Mastiff
is an excellent 10 - 12 years.
Temperament:
To
some people, meeting a TM for the first time can be quite
an intimidating experience possibly because of their majestic
appearance and air of aloofness. However on further acquaintance
they will discover a delightful dog that is sweet natured,
affectionate, playful, mischievous, curious and very gentle
to both people and other animals.
TMs are very serious about guarding and will bark loudly
should someone walk by while they are on duty at the front
gate. They may also bark at strangers and sometimes even
visitors until they are shown, through the actions of their
owner, (with whom they have a solid bond) that there is
no threat with which to contend.
