The Tibetan Terrier is a medium-sized dog originating in Tibet, and despite its name, it is not a terrier but a utility breed developed to herd sheep. The Tibetan Spaniel is a powerful dog, with a compact square body of square proportions.
In appearance, it resembles the smaller breed the Lhasa Apso, to which it is closely related and the larger Bearded Collie. Its most distinguishing feature is of course its abundant coat which consists of a warm undercoat and a long fine topcoat. Their lengthy hair falls over the face and eyes and is sometimes held back on the top of their head. The Tibetan Terrier has unique feet, which are broad and flat with hair between the toes, adapted over centuries to help them climb the snowy, mountainous terrain of Tibet. These dogs are also well known for their good temperament. They are friendly and affectionate dogs, with a great deal of charm and are devoted to their owners. They can make excellent family dogs and with good early socialisation, they are gentle with children and other household pets. Their instincts are to be a watchdog, which can make them wary of strangers and they can be prone to excessive barking. The Tibetan Terrier is lively and energetic and requires regular exercise. This can include dog agility which they will relish and excel in. These are happy and lively dogs, with a slight stubborn streak but oodles of charm, who thrive in the company of their humans.
History
The Tibetan Terrier is one of several Tibetan dogs associated with Buddhist monasteries and the Dalai Lama. They were used high in the mountains as herders and watchdogs, but also as companions. The breed was brought out of Tibet by an English surgeon, Dr Agnes Greig who was gifted one after successfully operating on a patient in Tibet. After acquiring a second male, Dr Greig established a kennel and began to breed them back in the United Kingdom during the 1930s.
