There are three breeds of dogs that stem from the high mountain regions of Tibet. The Tibetan Terrier, the Tibetan Spaniel and the Tibetan Mastiff. All three are indigenous to the region and were known to be in existence as long as 1000 years ago. The Himalayan regions of Tibet encompass high cold mountains and hot deserts and grassy flat plateaus. The dogs that developed are hardy and adaptable because of the harsh regions in which they originated. The people of Tibet are wanderers and nomadic in nature. they did not purposely breed dogs. Thus the Tibetan Terrier, known for being of compact size, possessing double coat and great agility and large flat feet, suitable for crossing the rugged terrain, is a true creature which demonstrates "survival of the fittest".
The Tibetan Terrier's coat may be of any color, but it is always long and profuse and double. Thorough brushing down to the skin at least twice a week helps to keep it looking nice, though in the wild lands of Tibet it is true that it does not bother the dog when it is unkempt and uncombed! The coat should not be shaved, for mother nature has endowed it with insulation in both hot and cold weather and also protection from the sun. A dog whose coat is shaved is much more likely to develop skin problems and irritations. The coat of the Tibetan Terrier parts naturally down the middle of the back and if kept clean and free of mats it is an easy job to comb out, but once mats have developed this can be quite a chore. Attention needs to be paid to the ears also, which are long and covered with long hair, if they become infected they are difficult to keep clean because no air gets to the inside of the ear.
Other than coat care and occasionally a nail trim, there is not much else which needs to concern an owner of a Tibetan Terrier, as they seem to have a natural good health and are not prone to a lot of the diseases which afflict many of the modern dogs. There can occasionally be found cases of juvenile cataracts or hip dysplasia but for the most part the incidence of these problems is low.
Oddly enough, the Tibetan Terrier is not truly a "Terrier" and does not qualify except in the area of being of small stature. This dog furthermore is not shown in the Terrier classes. In the United Kingdom he is classified as a "Utility Dog" and in the United States the classification is that of the Non-Sporting group. Terriers are known to be rodent killers and "ratters" and this is the farthest thing from the description of the capabilities and usefulness of this breed.
Through the years of its development, the Tibetan Terrier and the Nomadic tribes began to interact and the dogs became part of the livelihood of the Tibetan people, serving as a drover of the flock, a companion and a caravan dog. Eventually this dog became an indispensable part of the life of the monasteries, the small villages and the wandering tribes. The small size (15-16 inches at the shoulder) and the hardiness of the coat and sturdiness of its' structure have become important attributes in the performance of these various tasks. Furthermore, the Tibetan Terrier has become an indispensable part of the family life of its' owners and masters, preferring human company above all else and likewise being treasured and loved by the people to whom it belongs.
The Tibetan Terrier in the modern family of today makes a gentle and sensible companion, a wonderful obedience dog and also excels in the sport of agility. It is an intelligent dog, loves to learn tricks and delights in pleasing its owner.
The Tibetan Terrier can be kept in an apartment as long as she can get frequent walks. This is a very active dog when outside. A properly fenced in exercise area would be ideal. She can be a barker so keep this in mind. She can do well with other dogs and pets but needs to be extensively socialized with them when young. Older, calm children are good, again, socialization early on would help. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog. It also should be kept in mind that these dogs are said to bring good luck.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Tibetan Terrier is 14 to 16 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 18 to 30 pounds.
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Tibetan Terrier is no exception. Although considered a healthy breed, be on the look out for flea allergies, eye disease and eye irritation from hair and Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness). This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
*Grooming. The Tibetan Terrier has a double coat. The under coat is wooly and soft. The outer coat is long and profuse. She should be brushed regularly and it is said that she should be brushed while slightly dampened. Weekly baths are also recommended by some. She should definitely see a professional groomer occasionally.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.
*Life Span. The Tibetan Terrier can live between 12 and 15 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Tibetan Terrier comes from the remote Himalayas in Tibet. These dogs were kept as pets and considered lucky. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1973.
Some Registries: * Tibetan Terrier Club of America *UKC United Kennel Club *NKC National Kennel Club *CKC Continental Kennel Club *APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc. *AKC American Kennel Club *FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale *NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club *KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain *ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club *ACR = American Canine Registry
Litter Size: 5 to 8 Tibetan Terrier puppies
Category: Non Sporting
Terms To Describe: Intelligent, loyal, affectionate, sensitive, agile,
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS Makes a good watch dog. Makes an ok guard dog. Once considered lucky in Tibet.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS May need obedience training. Does not like to be left alone. May be a barker.
*Other Names Known By: Dhokhi Apso, Luck Giver, Holy Dog of Tibet
*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.
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