Size:
Lifespan:
Over 10 years
Coath length:
Medium
Sheds:
Yes
Grooming:
More than once a week
Size of home:
Size of garden:
Large garden
Town or country:
Either
Energy levels:
Low
Characteristics:
Reserved, intelligent and loyal
Gets along with other pets:
Yes, with training
Family dog:
Suitable for older children
Suitable for:
Experienced owners
Breed standard colours:
Black, Black & Tan, Gold, Grey, Grey & Gold, Grey & Tan
Average dimension(s):
Height: 61-66 cm (24-26 in)Weight: 36-72 kg (79-159 lb)
Requires training:
Extra training
The Tibetan Mastiff is the largest of the Tibetan breeds and is believed to be one of the oldest breeds in the world.
Bred in the Himalayas to guard livestock and homesteads, the Tibetan Mastiff is a giant, handsome and imposing-looking dog, with a powerful and muscular frame.
History
Originating in the Himalayas, Tibetan Mastiffs were bred to protect homesteads and livestock from animals such as bears, wolves and snow leopards. Early explorers to the Himalayas spoke of the giant mastiff dog and it is believed that some were given as gifts and thus found their way into parts of the Middle East and Europe. In the early 20th century, King George IV introduced a pair of Tibetan Mastiffs to the United Kingdom and showed one at London Zoo.
