Tibetan Terrier
One of the dogs who just love being around people, a Tibetan Terrier is a classic example of a companion dog. They are loyal and affectionate, and adapts perfectly with apartment dwellers and small households.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
35-51 cm
8-14 kg
12-15 years
Tibet
pure
non-sporting
Characteristics of the Tibetan Terrier
Contrary to its name, the Tibetan Terrier is not a terrier-type dog. It is actually a Sheepdog which also worked in the protection of traders in the Tibet region of China. It got its name because of its size, but it doesn't share the same characteristics as terriers. Thanks to its origins, the Tibetan is a companion dog, loyal and extremely protective as well. Even though they fit well in small households and apartments, they do need good amount of physical activity daily. It is suggested that Tibetan Terrier owners take their dogs for at least 20 minutes of walk daily. Socialise them at a young age so that they do not become aloof of fellow pets and humans.
Coat
The Tibetan Terrier's coat is firmly protected by a double coat having fine coats that can be wavy or straight. This coat is generally covered with a layer of long, dense and possibly wavy hair. Tibetan Terrier dogs can be found in any color except chocolate or liver, but the most popular are white, gold, gray, cream, black, particolor, and tricolor. The long hair of the breed requires good care: they need to be brushed daily so that they do not tangle. Though baths should be only given to them when necessary, it is suggested that you bathe them at least once every month. Use a high quality dog shampoo so that you can eliminate all the dirt from their coat when bathing. Also, you need to brush them regularly so that you avoid matting and tangling of the hair. Using a hard pin brush would tremendously help you to detangle their hair completely, also removing dead hairs from their undercoat as well.
Pet Profile
Best Dog Food For Tibetan Terriers
Tibetan Terriers are known to gain a lot of weight fast and therefore, their diet should consist of biologically appropriate protein, fats and ground bones. It would be good if owners can feed them veg based dog foods so that they retain all the essential vitamins and minerals from it. Their diet should also consists of crude fibre as it will facilitate healthy digestion and a higher nutrient absorption. All in all, they need good amount of calories as their active nature demands it. Tibetan Terriers thrive on meat-based food generally and owners should select the diet accordingly. Though dry dog food is their most popular choice, you may also feed them cooked eggs, fruits etc as it supports their overall physical development. When it comes to feeding amount, puppies should be fed 3-5 times a day and adult terriers, up to 2 times a day. Owners should refrain from feeding the terriers human foods as it can cause mineral deficiencies and tooth problems in them. Also, feed them fresh, clean water regularly and ensure their water and food bowls are always cleaned.
Grooming Your Tibetan Terrier
Tibetan Terrier is a dog that requires frequent grooming and bathing owing to their double coat. They have a kind of hair which when it isn't groomed, it can grow and touch the floor too. Though some terriers may have a curlier, coarser texture, many have a softer, straighter look. Tibetan Terriers will need regular brushing which helps in keeping hair problems like matting and tangling at bay, Also, as this is a low shedding breed, you don't need to do extensive grooming on them. Just simply combing their hair would daily would be more than enough to keep their coat clean. When it comes to bathing, plan to bathe your terrier twice every month and more if you are taking them to a muddy park for playing. Also, wash your dog's coat with a high quality dog shampoo which will not only clean the dirt from the body, but will also keep the external parasites from infesting.
Taking Care of a Tibetan Terrier
These dogs are known for their high adaptability, as they can live in both smaller places, such as apartments, and larger ones, such as backyards or gardens. Regardless of where it is, they should be exercised regularly as they have a high level of energy which must be spent daily. An idle Tibetan Terrier with pent-up energy can be destructive and runaway, as it is capable of climbing, jumping, or burrowing anywhere to arrange its escape. The may exhibit same behaviour when left alone in the house too. The breed is extremely attached to the family and does not do well with loneliness.
History of Tibetan Terriers
Tibetan Terriers are originally from a region of Tibet called "Lost Valley", so-named because an earthquake had destroyed a major road that gave access to the valley. The Tibetan Terriers has existed for at least 2000 years and they were bred to be the companions of the monks in Tibet. They were actually believed to bring good luck to their owners and hence they were never sold. Many nomadic herdsmen from Tibet also used them to herd animals like cattle, sheep etc. The gentle nature of Tibetan Terrier has always helped their ever growing popularity.