The Tibetan Terrier is a medium sized, well-coated breed.This native to Tibet has snowshoe-like feet to handle tough terrain and climates.

Physical Characteristics

• Medium build
• Dark eyes
• Hair: Double coat covers the full body
• Outer coat is straight or wavy hair
• Coat can be a variety of colors
• Height: 14-17 inches
• Weight: 18-30 pounds
• Average lifespan: 12-15 years

Temperament

• Kind, affectionate, energetic, playful, alert, loyal, willful, competitive
• Interaction with people: Good with mature children, but younger ones should be supervised
• Level of attention needed: Doesn't like to be left alone for long periods of time
• Protection: Good watchdog; barks loudly when strangers approach

At Home

• OK for apartments
• Needs average yard; should be fenced in if off-lead
• Needs daily walks

Grooming

• Light shedder
• Needs a great deal of brushing and frequent bathing, if coat is kept long
• May be clipped in a "puppy" trim
• Clip hair flush with pads of feet and remove excess hair from ears
• Extra grooming required for the beard, and areas beneath the legs and hindquarters

Brief History

• Native to Tibet
• According to legend, the breed was known as "The Holy Dogs of Tibet"
• Kept in Tibetan monasteries as companions and watchdogs
• Buddhist monks gave this breed as gifts for good luck
• Breed was introduced to England in the 1920s
• First brought to the U.S. in 1956

Fido's Facts

• Historically thought to bring luck to its owners
• The Tibetan terrier is not a terrier