Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan Terrier is an all-purpose dog and a proud member of the Non-Sporting Group. They have an adorable, shaggy appearance, with a square proportion, and although compact in size - maintains physical power and muscularity. They stand at approximately 15 to 16 inches and weigh anywhere from 18 to 30 lbs (depending on gender).
The temperament of the Tibetan Terrier is that of a gentle, loving canine. Somehow these dogs know how to lay on the charm which makes it easy for anyone to want to take one home. They are a loyal companion that enjoys the quiet life if indoor living, while at the same time can be depended on to roam the great outdoors on an adventurous hike or walk. The Tibetan Terrier is friendly towards other dogs and pets, but somewhat reserved around strange people.
A Brief History Of The Tibetan Terrier
The exact history of the Tibetan Terrier is just as mysterious as the lands it comes from. It is said that these dogs were bred some 2,000 years ago inside Lamaist monasteries. Although they were used to help with working tasks, the purpose of the breed was as companions and holy dogs, “bringers of luck” so to speak.
You have probably read a few miraculous stories of these dogs. One such story claims that the village of which the breed lived was completely blocked off when an earthquake destroyed the route into the valley, during the 14th century. In order to cross, the people had to cover treacherous pathways, of which killed many. It is said that anyone that was carrying a Tibetan Terrier made it through safely.
None of these dogs were ever sold. They were held in such high regard that the only time anyone outside of Tibet had one was when it was given as a special gift. One such man received this gift of a Tibetan Terrier and is responsible for breeding further litters, thus bringing world wide attention to them. His name was Dr. Grieg and the year was 1920.
The breed was first recognized outside of its homeland in India. The dogs then made their way to English dog shows in 1937. The United States saw the Tibetan Terrier during the 1950s and in 1973, the breed was officially recognized by the AKC.
Upkeep Requirements For The Tibetan Terrier
This terrier may be the ideal house dog to have relaxing and quietly sitting by your side indoors, but once outside it loves to run and look for adventure. A few walks on the leash each day plus some fun games in the yard is the perfect way to keep the Tibetan Terrier in shape and mentally stimulated.
This breed can withstand moderately hot and cool temperatures but is not meant to live outdoors. They are best suited to either be a total indoor dog, or an indoor dog that has access to a fenced-in area outside during the day. Either way, the Tibetan forms a very close bond with its family and makes a dependable watchdog. Grooming requirements for the breed consists of a good brushing of its shaggy coat twice weekly.
Health Concerns
The average lifespan of the Tibetan Terrier is between twelve and fifteen years. Major health concerns that run common in the breed are PRA and lens luxation. Minor health issues include CHD, hypothyroidism, cataracts, patellar luxation, and ceroid lipofuscinosis. Rarely seen is distichiasis. Veterinarians suggest that Tibetan Terrier dogs get tested for hip, eye, and thyroid problems.
History
The history of the Tibetan Terrier covers at least 2000 years. Lamaist monks of The Lost Vally in Tibet have bred them at their monasteries for centuries. The valley is called lost due to the destruction of the single road going to it, which occurred in the 1300's. This is a companion breed, which was rare in the past, as most dogs were bred for some kind of work.
After the destruction of the road, it was a much more hazardous trip to go to The Lost Valley, therefore, when someone did arrive, the monks presented him with a Tibetan Terrier to keep. The Indian doctor, A. Greig received one of these terriers in 1920. He had treated a female that lived in the valley. He liked this breed and started breeding his stock. In the 1930's, the doctor took some of his dogs to England. The reason the English dubbed these dogs terriers was due to their size. The Tibetan Terrier first came to the U.S. in 1956. In 1973, the AKC gave this breed recognition.
General Looks
This is a breed of medium size. The head isn't particularly wide or thin, but gets narrower at the front. He has big, wide set, dark eyes. The v-shaped ears are very feathered. The round, flat paws are conspicuously big and good for maneuvering in the snow. The head and body are liberally covered in fur.
Is This Your Breed?
This breed is a bit impish. He is loyal to his family, but reserved to strangers. He may disappear when visitors arrive. He is attuned to his owner's moods. He needs regular moderate exercise. His coat requires brushing about three times each week and periodic bathing. Grooming by a professional every few months is advised. He isn't an outside dog.
Coat
He has a double coat; the undercoat is wool-like and soft. The outer-coat is long, abundant, and fine.
Color
All colors, even white are acceptable.
Personality
He is smart, sensitive, faithful, friendly, frolicsome, affable, gentle, and attentive. He is very good with kids. He gets on well with other pets. He needs to be trained with patience and kindness because of his sensitive temperament.
Tibetan Terrier video:
Tags: History, breed, shaggy appearance, holy dogs, square proportion
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