No one really knows for sure when they originated because the breed is so ancient, and Tibet has always been so isolated, that it’s impossible to say how or when Tibetan Mastiffs came to be. One thing that we do know is that for millennia they were the mighty guardians of the Himalayas, and it’s thought that they’re the progenitor of all modern mastiffs.
Chinese Tibetan Mastiffs are an exceptional breed of dog. The Tibetan Mastiff has one purpose in life: to guard and protect. Originally bred in the Himalayas and centuries of working closely with humans have made them very sophisticated in the ways he understands people. The Tibetan Mastiff is loving, gentle, patient, and understanding.
With their noble appearance, long coat, appealing colors, and beautiful tail, the Tibetan Mastiff is sure to be a conversation starter and traffic stopper as you walk him down the street. He's a hard worker, protective of his family, fearless, and loyal. His large size and substance makes him a wonderful guard dog, and centuries of breeding for that specific task has perfected him as a protector.
Tibetan Mastiffs do well with children, but they can mistake the yelling, screaming, and playing of children as a sign of aggression that requires action on their part.
Tibetan Mastiffs are generally a healthy breed. Like all large breeds there may be some health issues. These problems include hip and elbow dysplasia, low thyroid and seizure disorder due to their large stature. Some dogs may be faced with these health challenges in their lives, but the majority of Tibetan Mastiffs are healthy dogs.
The Tibetan Mastiff is a companion dog who can live indoors, with access to a large, securely fenced yard where he can exercise. A small yard or dog run isn't sufficient for their needs. Their heavy coat makes them unsuited to life in a consistent hot, humid climate, although he can tolerate dry heat. During hot weather, he should always have access to shade and fresh water whenever he's outdoors.
The Tibetan Mastiff's exercise requirements can be satisfied with 20 to 30 minutes of play in the yard or a half-hour walk. He'll enjoy having another dog to play with, preferably one who comes close to his size.
Tibetan Mastiff puppies grow more quickly than smaller breeds, but they aren't physically mature until they're more than a year old. To prevent orthopedic damage, limit exercise to free play in the yard, and avoid long walks until your puppy is a year old. You can begin training the day you bring your Tibetan Mastiff puppy home. They are intelligent dogs and learn quickly, but they are independent and their stubborn nature means that strict and formal obedience training doesn't bring the best results. Be patient, firm, and consistent to develop the strongest bond with your Tibetan Mastiff. Always look for behaviors you can reward instead of punishing them for infractions. Regular training practice and social interaction will help ensure that you live together happily. A bored or lonely Tibetan Mastiff is more destructive and noisy than you can imagine. Housetraining comes easily to the Tibetan Mastiff. Crate training assists in this process and prevents your puppy from chewing on things they shouldn't or otherwise getting into trouble when you aren't around to supervise. A crate also gives him a safe haven where he can retreat when he's feeling overwhelmed or tired. A crate should never be used as a punishment.
Leash training is also important, especially since your Tibetan Mastiff will eventually weigh up to 160 pounds or more and be able to pull you where they want to go. Tibetan Mastiffs should never be walked off leash and having good leash manners is essential to both the state of your muscles and your happiness. Socialization is a must for this breed. Not only can Tibetan Mastiffs be overly dominant toward other dogs, they tend to become overly protective of their home and family. Puppy socialization classes are a great start, but socialization shouldn't end there. Visit many different dog-friendly stores, parks, and events. Invite different people to your home on multiple occasions so your Tibetan Mastiff learns that others can come onto your property and his territory. With the proper training, consistency, and socialization, your Tibetan Mastiff can be a wonderful family member who guards, protects, and loves you unconditionally.
Even outdoors, it's best to have a contained, fenced exercise space. Tibetan Mastiff puppies will grow up to be powerful and highly intelligent dogs, who perform their guardian duties extremely well.
This is an independent guardian breed who will not always look to you for guidance. He will enjoy your company and bond with you, but he won't always obey you, especially in a situation in which he believes he's right. The Tibetan Mastiff is stubborn and usually doesn't do well in obedience or agility competitions. Tibetan Mastiffs are generally quiet dogs when their needs and living conditions are met, but if left outdoors at night they can be barkers. Of course there's an easy solution: bring your dog inside. If you use a yard, make sure it's well-fenced; Tibetan Mastiffs have been known to climb fences to escape. And be sure not to leave these dogs outside for very long because they may start to dig and become territorial and aggressive.
Under most conditions, Tibetan Mastiffs are very tolerant with children in their own families, especially if raised with them. Some information says that they're generally not well suited to homes with young children, but we have never seen any aggression towards any small children or visitors.
Tibetan Mastiffs have a strong instinct concerning people, and if they don't get over their initial dislike of a particular person, there's usually a reason. Tibetan Mastiffs cannot be walked off leash and should be taken on several different routes during their daily walks to prevent them from becoming territorial of their walking route.
The Tibetan Mastiff can be a wonderful breed for the proper owner and home, but they can't fit into just any lifestyle. If you're interested in this breed, do your homework and feel free to ask us any questions or concerns that you might have. One thing is certain: if you do acquire a Tibetan Mastiff, your life is sure to be an interesting adventure with this beautiful, loyal companion.
Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club: