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Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan Terrier is a medium sized, well-coated breed.This native to Tibet has snowshoe-like feet to handle tough terrain and climates.
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Photo credit © TTCA
Breed Facts
Finding a Tibetan Terrier
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
Medical Conditions
- Canine neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (neurological disorder)
- Deafness
- Hip dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Ophthalmic disorders (including progressive retinal atrophy, lens luxation and cataracts)
- Patellar luxation
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
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
Other Facts
- Historically thought to bring luck to its owners
- The Tibetan terrier is not a terrier
Breed 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
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Tibetan Terrier Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit TTCA Rescue
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