Frequently Asked Questions About Tibetan Mastiffs

(Many of these FAQ's provided courtesy of Drakyi Tibetan Mastiffs)

Breed Characteristics

1. Why is there such a great variation in size and breed type in this breed?

This is the most frequently asked question. Simply stated, the historically separate varieties/sub-varieties of Tibetan Mastiffs are now all classified under the one Tibetan Mastiff umbrella. In its native land, the Tibetan Mastiff, now known worldwide as the "Do-Khyi", was not found to be a standardized breed as we expect in Western civilization. Traditional Tibetan dog breeding was the result of geographic patterns rather than the intentional, thoughtful breeding process we associate with dog breeding today. The nomadic life of herdsmen was not conducive to developing a breeding program, and breed type (appearance) was not the shepherds' main concern. Function based on physical soundness and a strong guardian disposition were the two most highly sought and prized traits in the dogs. Genetics were neither understood nor employed by the early Tibetans in their production of dogs, therefore they failed to arrest the tendency of type variation by selective breeding. Thus, dissimilar types developed in different regions.

To better explain this discrepancy, in 1901, Mr. L. Jacob spoke of his most recent trek into Tibet:

A group of twenty Thibetan (Mastiff) dogs might be taken at random, and if arranged in line, the most mastiff-like animal at one flank and the most sheepdog-like at the other, the rest being sorted in between by gradation, it would be absolutely impossible to say where the one variety ended and the other began.

Yet, the difference between the "mastiff-like" and "sheepdog-like" types of TMs he describes are no doubt great, to say the least.

The same holds true today, almost 100 years later! The two most often seen and historically documented varieties of Tibetan Mastiffs (Do-Khyis) that Mr. Jacob spoke of are known as the Tsang-Khyi and the Do-Khyi. The best description of the Tsang-Khyi was given by Mr. W. Gill in his narrative of a journey through China and Eastern Tibet to Burma in 1880:

The chief had a huge dog, kept in a cage on the top of the wall at the entrance. It was a very heavily built black-and-tan, the tan of a very good colour; his coat was rather long, but smooth; he had a bushy tail, smooth tan legs, and an enormous head that seemed out of proportion to the body, very much like that of a bloodhound in shape with overhanging lips. His bloodshot eyes were very deep-set, and his ears were flat and drooping. He had tan spots over the eyes, and a tan spot on the breast. He measured four feet from the point of the nose to the root of the tail, and two feet ten inches in height at the shoulder [34"!]. He was three years old, and was of the true Tibetan [Mastiff] breed.

A very clear, descriptive picture for us today in reference to type and specific cross-referencing pertaining to size. The largest Tsang-Khyi type of dogs were often given to the monks at the monasteries to serve as stationary guardians so that the owner might find favor in God's eyes, while the smaller, more shepherd-like Do-Khyis remained in the villages and on the trail functioning in a livestock guardian capacity.

The first imports that reached U.S. shores some twenty five years ago, were from this wide gene base, varying in type and quality depending upon their area of origin and the influence of other environmental factors. While these early U.S. imports represented the myriad of varieties referenced by Mr. L. Jacob in his narrative, the majority of present day TMs can now begin to be classified in the two distinct types of dogs historically known as the Tibetan Mastiff, the mastiff-like Tsang-Khyi and the shepherd like Do-Khyi. Although the gap between the two types is bridged through the blending of contemporary bloodlines, a wide range of differences can still be seen in size, breed type, and at times, temperament.

2. What can you tell me about the temperament of this breed?

The most consistent comment from TM owners is "What a challenge these dogs can be." As a guardian breed, the TM has been bred and valued for its independent nature.

In native Tibet, the dogs are allowed to roam freely at night to protect the village and flocks from thieves and predators. Their deep, sepulcher-like bark heard throughout the night assured the villagers that all would be well in the morning.

These dogs are intelligent to a fault, and expect to be treated like a companion, interacting with the family, not merely as a pet left outdoors. Pleasing people is foremost in the heart and mind of the Tibetan Mastiff, but like a stubborn child, they may have to be reminded more than once to complete the task at hand, requiring patience from the owner who must wait while the dog finishes its own agenda. While folklore and some historical accounts paint the picture of an aggressive, barking dog, it was actually the Tibetan people who preferred and encouraged aggressive behavior and barking in their dogs for function's sake. This was often accomplished by provoking chained dogs from puppyhood. Consequently, tales from Tibetan trekkers about "huge savage beasts lunging, straining and snarling at the end of heavy chains" take on a different perspective. This was learned and desired behavior for the native Tibetan dogs.

On the other hand, successive generations of Western domestically bred and reared dogs have revealed a confident, reliable, and competent loyal family protector who desires primarily to maintain the sanctity and safety of the home turf. Any temperament problems or excessive barking has been found to rest with individual dogs from certain bloodlines and not with the breed in general.

3. What are the differences, if any, between the male and female temperament?

In regards to temperament, the sexes are equally reliable. As for personalities, the male TM will often be a more carefree and independent soul, while the female has a more interactive, home/family focused demeanor, except for her periods of moodiness and crankiness associated with the breeding season. Both sexes offer equal protection and affection towards the family.

4. How are TMs with other dogs and other animals?

The TM can be very good with other dogs and animals, especially when introduced at a young age. Older dogs may require more of an adjustment period. As a flock guardian, the TM has an instinctive protective nature that encompasses all his domain, and he usually will be top dog or "alpha" amongst his peers.

5. How is the breed suited for guarding, exhibition, and obedience work?

As a livestock guardian breed the TM prefers to be a homebody, and puppies should be introduced to the perimeters of their turf early on at regular intervals to help to cultivate this trait. If dogs are isolated and not socialized regularly, their tendency may be to bolt for open spaces in an eagerness to explore and familiarize themselves with an area. If your dog is to remain faithfully at your side, it will have to be trained to do so.

Teaching your puppy the basics of obedience at home from 2-6 months of age (the stay-at-home vaccination period) such as sit, stay, and lay down; leash-breaking, bathing, and grooming etc., should be followed up by an obedience/conformation class, attended by you and your dog, so that it learns to respond to you. A TM should never be sent to a training facility to be trained by someone else.

As for exhibiting your dog in the show ring, the TM is well suited for the rigors of competition, and many of our dogs have become great ambassadors for the breed through distinguished show careers. If exhibition or obedience work is your goal, we will be able to select a suitable puppy to meet your needs, based upon years of observations and experience with our breeding stock, and we will be happy to help your puppy fulfill its potential in the show and obedience ring.

6. How is this breed temperamentally suited to children playing, guests in the home, and boredom if left alone?

TMs seem to have the patience of a saint, especially when it comes to children, and can tolerate a lot of pestering. They can stay home alone all day if necessary with a good bone to chew on, providing they get regular attention from the family in the evening hours. A more primitive breed by nature, the TM is very "pack" oriented, thriving in the hierarchy and companionship that the pack provides. Accordingly, we strongly recommend daily interaction with another dog or "in-house" integration into the family structure. In either case, social interaction is vital for proper psychological development. Lonely, bored dogs may become destructive, over aggressive and/or problem barkers. As for strange and/or new adults or children in the home, the TM will generally accept those people whom you accept if they are socialized with new people beginning in puppyhood. A dog that has been regularly isolated cannot be expected to interact freely with strangers. Remember, this is a primitive breed that will be very sensitive to your routine and cues, and will adapt to your lifestyle. By nature, they will remain somewhat aloof and reserved with new people until familiarity is achieved. They are very keen at sensing friend or foe.

7. How can I expect my dog to mature?

As a fully matured adult (3-5 years), these special companions for the fortunate few are noted for their loyalty and devotion to the family, ready to defend people and property at any time, fulfilling their distinguished, centuries old duties in partnership with mankind. With proper socialization that begins in puppyhood, your TM will be comfortable and dependable in public or in new situations. The appearance of a fully matured TM (large size, heavy bone, profuse coat and a huge, typey head) is something to behold! A visit is recommended. Sires and dams of our puppies are most often on the premises, and we encourage everyone to visit and integrate in with the pack. I never forgot my first TM encounter, and neither will you! Experience their soundness of temperament and see the overall quality of our dogs. In this case, seeing is believing.

8. How are the TMs in warmer climates?

Generally speaking, the TM is adaptable to almost any climate, however, we do not recommend that the dogs be kept in a tropical climate where extreme heat and humidity are factors. Being that TMs do have a longer, thicker double coat they do not thrive in extreme humidity where fungal skin and ear problems may abound. In their native lands, they experience very cold winters, and very dry, hot summers. Since they shed out most of their coat by early summer, they seem to endure dry heat quite well. When temperatures reach 80+ degrees, the TM's activity level is greatly reduced during the day, and food consumption can drop 25-50 percent. Good common sense dictates that the dogs need an ample supply of fresh water and plenty of shade during the hotter summer months.

Care and Training

9. What kind, and how much exercise does this breed need?

The Tibetan Mastiff requires an average amount of exercise, which can be best realized in a spacious yard with a canine companion. As a flock guardian breed predisposed to overseeing their family and home turf, they should not be regularly confined to a small area or dog run. This boredom can lead to destructive and disruptive behavior that can result in personality problems. Frequent interaction with adults and children is recommended, along with long walks and/or romps in spacious areas.

10. Does this breed require special or frequent grooming?

This breed requires relatively little grooming other than a good brushing with a "Slicker" wire brush several times a week, with special attention to the longer hairs found in the ruff, tail, and breechings. The Tibetan Mastiff's coat has been described as weather-resistant, shedding only once a year in early summer. Females may blow their coat an additional time after whelping a litter. Since this breed has no doggy odor, bathing more than once a month is neither recommended nor required.

11. How, when, and why do I use a crate?

You and your dog need to learn at an early age that the crate is a home-away-from-home, and not a cage. It can and should become a convenient, safe haven for your dog in the home, in the car, at a dog show, and while on vacation. From the puppy stage on, the crate, or the "den" can be used as the bed and as an aid in housebreaking, and rewards should be given to encourage its use.

Organizations and Information

12. Is the Tibetan Mastiff an AKC recognized breed?

No, not at this time. However, the TM is acknowledged as a pure breed by the AKC and the TM is recognized by every other kennel club throughout the world. AKC has recently extended its hand to all rare breeds by instituting the Foundation Stock Service (FSS) as a record keeping service option for rare breed dog owners, and to act as a registry safeguard for purebred rare breed dogs prior to their full AKC recognition. All of the official club records are on file with AKC and they are kept informed about breed related activities so as to expedite the application process when the time comes. TMCA is now registering/recording breeding stock and puppies with AKC through their AKC/FSS service to Rare Breed Dogs. Recording with the AKC/FSS provides the full privileges of registration and exhibition that TMs enjoy throughout the world in FCI countries, something that is not provided with simple breed club registration.

13. Where can I show this breed?

There are a growing number of organizations that cater to rare breeds and who provide exhibition opportunities for TMs throughout the year and across the country. In addition to TMCA, these organizations include: the Canine Rarity Shows (CRS), the American Rare Breed Association (ARBA), the States Kennel Club (SKC), the United Kennel Club (UKC), the International All Breed Kennel Club (IABKC), and occasionally an AKC Match where rare breeds are welcomed. These matches are generally held on weekends, and locations are often listed in the Classified section of your local newspaper. For more information on show dates and locations, or on how championships can be earned, please contact us for details.

14. Are there any books on this breed?

The historic books that are available are expensive, and with a few exceptions they are generally difficult to find. Frequently the information is exaggerated, incorrect, varying greatly, and reflecting a single historian's experience and observations.

In recent years, new information has emerged and we are happy to recommend The Tibetan Mastiff, Legendary Guardian of the Himalayas by Rohrer & Flamholtz ($16.95), where many of our dogs and photographs are featured. Our foundation stud dog, Simba, is featured on the front cover, and two of his kids, Mel and Zorina, are featured on the back cover. This 160 page hardbound book provides a nice introduction to the breed, and a chronicle for the breed during its development in the U.S. during the 1970s and 1980s.

A must for any serious TM enthusiast is the newly released The Venerable Tibetan Mastiff by Max Siber, revised and edited by Cathy Flamholtz ($26.95). Translated from a 100 year old German text, this book provides a rare look into what the breed was in the unspoiled, pristine Tibet of the last century.

Both of these books can best be ordered directly from the publisher, OTR Publications by calling l (800) 367-2174. Have your credit card information ready for the answering machine, and request U.P.S. delivery for quicker service. One of the best known carriers of dog books in the U.S. is 4-M Enterprises, Inc. at 1 (800) 467-9867, where you will find the largest selections of books on dogs from the orient.