TIBETAN TERRIER

Temperament: Affectionate, Amiable, Energetic
Height: 14 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder
Weight: 20 to 24 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Dog Breed Group: Companion Dogs

MORE ABOUT THIS BREED

The Tibetan Terrier was created to be a companion and friend. Dogs of this breed love being with people and are adaptable to a variety of homes and lifestyles. Their shaggy coat is attractive but requires frequent grooming.

Born in Tibet, Tibetan Terriers were bred in lamaseries to be companions not only to the holy men who raised them but also to nomadic herdsmen as they wandered the high plains with their flocks. The shaggy, medium-size dogs were thought to bring good luck, so they were never sold but only given as gifts or thanks for favors. People who live with the breed today understand just what a gift they are.

It’s not unusual for Tibetan Terriers to be reserved with strangers, but they shower affection on their people. They can adapt to life in many different types of households and are a good choice for families with older children who understand how to treat dogs. With their protective double coat and large, flat, round feet to provide traction in much the same way as snowshoes – they’re well suited to homes in snowy climates.

The Tibetan Terrier is a pleasant dog who enjoys life and loves people. He’ll adapt to life with a couch potato or an active family, always approaching every day with an endearing sense of humor and a sparkle in his eye.

PERSONALITY

Affectionate and adaptable, these pups fit in well with just about any family, even apartment dwellers. They do, however, have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercise. They also don’t like being left alone for long hours of the day. If you can give your dog plenty of attention, affection, and physical activity, you’ll have a loving, furry family member.

FEEDING

Recommended daily amount: 1 1/8 to 1 3/8 cups of a high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals.

How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level.

HEALTH

Tibetan Terriers are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be subject to certain health conditions.

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

• Lens Luxation

• Hip Dysplasia

CARE

Tibetan Terriers are adaptable dogs at home in a variety of households, from condos to castles. They should live indoors with their people, not stuck out in a backyard or kennel.

Like any dog, an adult Tibetan Terrier requires daily exercise to stay healthy and happy, but he’ll be satisfied with a couple of 15-minute walks daily or one longer walk.

Housetraining can take time, but you’ll be successful if you’re patient and give your Tibetan Terrier a regular schedule and plenty of opportunities to potty outdoors, praising him when he does so. Crate training is strongly recommended.

TTs are generally amiable, but sometimes they have their own agenda. Keep training fun, be consistent, and use positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, play, and food rewards.

GROOMING

The Tibetan Terrier’s heavy double coat must be brushed once or twice a week to keep it in good shape. Thoroughly brush small sections at a time. Brushing is important because it removes loose hair that would otherwise form mats.

As you brush, spray the coat with a mixture of water and a small amount of coat conditioner to reduce static electricity — you don’t want to shock him — and prevent the hair from breaking. Start at the front feet and work your way up and then back, ending with the tail. Be sure to brush in the same direction the coat grows.

You can bathe your Tibetan Terrier every seven to 10 days if you want. Brushing and bathing him frequently not only keeps his coat clean, it helps it to look nice and grow well.

The rest is basic care. Trim the nails as needed, usually every week or two. Keep the hanging ears clean and dry. Brush the teeth frequently with a vet-approved pet toothpaste for good overall health and fresh breath.

SOME PICTURES ABOUT THIS BREED

Source: dogtime, vetstreet.