Characteristics Of The Tibetan Terrier
Shepherd dog and companion of Buddhist monks, the Tibetan Terrier breed is characterized by being an animal adaptable to a wide variety of homes and lifestyles. It is a friendly pet with an attractive coat that loves to be with children.
Born in Tibet, Tibetan Terriers were bred to be companions not only to holy men, but also to nomadic herdsmen who roamed the highlands with their herds.
The breed name is a bit of a misnomer, as the Tibetan Terrier is not a true terrier. It was given the name because of its size, but it does not share the terrier’s tendency to go down to earth (dig for critters). Lively and fun-loving, under the fall of his hair, hide little eyes that shine with good humor.
History
Due to its mountainous terrain, Tibet is often referred to as the roof of the world. It was in this high land where the Tibetan Terrier originated. Raised by lamas, these medium-sized furries were not limited to life in monasteries. Regarded as bearers of luck, they traveled to the high plateaus with nomadic herdsmen. Fearful of tempting fate to “sell their luck”, neither the lamas nor the shepherds ever sold these types of dogs.
The Tibetan Terrier could have remained a little known breed, were it not for the fact that a Tibetan man, grateful to a doctor, gave him a copy for saving his wife’s life. The doctor became a fan of these animals, then acquired a male and began a breeding program, establishing the Lamleh line of Tibetan Terrier.
The breed adopted the name of the Tibetan Terrier, despite the fact that it was not a true terrier, but simply resembled it in size.
A breed standard was created by the Kennel Club of India in 1930 and the Tibetan Terrier was officially recognized by the Kennel Club of England in 1937. The first Tibetan Terrier litter was imported to the United States in 1956.
Like all dogs, Tibetan Terriers thrive on human companionship. This is why it is no wonder they excel as therapy dogs. Although they are not overly active, they are athletes enough to compete in agility. They are also very watchful dogs.
This breed can adapt to living in different types of homes and they are a good choice for families with children. Thanks to their double layer of protection and large legs, like snowshoes, they can live without difficulty in cold and snowy places.
features
The Tibetan Terrier has a double coat of hair : one is soft like fluff and the other has abundant fine hair that can be wavy or straight. It comes in a range of colors including white, gold, tri-color, brindle, silver, or black. Its long coat of hair requires daily grooming and brushing. It is advisable to bathe it at least once a month.
Other grooming needs include dental hygiene and caring for your nails. Brush your Tibetan Terrier’s teeth at least two to three times a week to remove tartar buildup and bacteria. Trim your nails once or twice a month, as necessary.
This breed loves children and they can match their energy levels throughout the day. Like any other dog, it requires daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. A walk of at least 15 minutes per day is recommended. Puppies naturally require higher levels of stimulation and exercise.
These dogs generally get along well with other pets, especially if they start living together as puppies. They are good watchdogs and are always on the lookout for suspicious movements. They do not like to be alone for long periods, preferring the company of the people they love. They are also known for their adaptability and sense of humor.
Tibetan Terriers, when they are puppies, must have early socialization to ensure that in the future, they can live together and share their space without major difficulties.
