GROUP 6 - UTILITY

Brief History
One of the oldest known breeds, the Tibetan Mastiff is a large guardian breed originating from the Tibetan Plateau in China. He originated with the nomadic cultures of Tibet and Nepal, being used by local tribes of Tibetans to protect sheep from predators such as wolves, leopards & bears. The Tibetan Mastiff is believed to be the foundation stock for many of the molossus breeds known today.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime.
The average life span is 10 to 12 years.

Temperament
The Tibetan Mastiff is a loyal companion and guardian. They are slow to mature, independently minded, aloof with strangers and protective of home and family. Calm and patient with family.

General Breed Description
The Tibetan Mastiff is a large, powerful yet agile dog. The head provides a noble, dignified look, enhanced by a mane, which is more pronounced in males.  As a socialised domestic dog, he can thrive in a spacious, fenced yard with a canine companion. Like all guardian breeds, they are intelligent and stubborn to a fault, so obedience training is recommended. Colours may vary from rich black to gold and black and tan.

Coat and Care Requirements
The coat of a Tibetan Mastiff lacks the unpleasant big-dog smell that affects many large breeds. The coat, whatever its length or colour, should shed dirt and odors. There is generally one great moult in late winter or early spring and sometimes another, lesser moult in the late summer.

Size
Height: Males 66cms (26 ins) minimum height, Females 61cms (24 ins) minimum height. 

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders in is recommended you enquire about breed’s health and what health testing the breeder does. The Tibetan Mastiff is generally a healthy breed, however health conditions do occur occasionally.

Suitability
The protectiveness of Tibetan Mastiffs requires alertness and planning by the owner in order to avoid mishaps when the dog is simply performing as a guardian. Correct socialisation as a pup is extremely important. The breed is NOT recommended for novice dog owners.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard: 

https://dogsaustralia.org.au/members/breeds/breed-standards/Tibetan-Mastiff