The Tibetan Terrier

Appearance

The Tibetan Terrier is a medium-sized dog, profusely coated, of powerful build, and square in proportion. A fall of hair covers the eyes and foreface. The well-feathered tail curls up and falls forward over the back. The feet are large, flat, and round in shape.

History

The Tibetan Terrier originates from the desolate remote land of Tibet situated high up in the Himalayan Mountains in Asia. This very ancient breed has developed to survive the harsh conditions of Tibet with its extremes of weather and terrain. Dogs were kept in the monasteries and used by the nomads to herd and guard their animals. The breed was rearely seen outside of Tibet until Dr Greig was presented with one as a present for treating a sick Tibetan. She obtained other dogs and brought them back to the United Kingdom in the 1920’s. These were bred from and with dogs brought from Tibet later. These formed the basis of the breed as we now see them worldwide.

Temperament

Tibetan Terriers (often called TTs) are sometimes called a "large dog in a small dog's body," because they have a personality that is more like some of the larger breeds as opposed to what might be expected from their size. They love to play, are very athletic and agile, but at the same time, they can be calm and "laid back." Whilst they are Terrier by name they are not Terrier by nature.Tibetan Terriers are loving companions, and excellent family dogs. This breed needs to spend time inside with the family and are not suited to being left outside to their own devices where they will become bored. This breed is very trainable provided they can see some point in what they are being asked to do!

Care / Grooming

Tibetan Terriers do not shed their coat but they do require regular grooming. The Tibetan Terriers coat is quite long but if they are to be kept as pets they can be clipped quite short. A pin brush and a metal comb is all that is required to keep the coat well maintained. This breed requires grooming at least once a week but more often when they are changing from their puppy coat to adult coat which is a period where the coat mats easily.

Health

Tibetan Terriers are a relatively sturdy and healthy breed. Hereditary diseases which should be tested for in adults are Progressive Retinal Atrophy and Lens Luxation both diseases of the eye. Diabetes is also a problem which is often linked to particular breeding.

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