Tibetan Terrier: temperament, size, care and health

About the Tibetan Terrier

Despite its name, the Tibetan Terrier is not a true terrier and was never used to go to ground. It is a sturdy, square, medium-small dog standing roughly 14 to 17 inches at the shoulder, with a profuse double coat that falls over the eyes and a tail curled over the back. The feet are large, round and flat, which is a practical design for walking on snow, and the coat comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, including white, gray, black, golden and parti-colors.

In Tibet it served as a shepherd's helper, a watchdog and a companion in monasteries and villages. In modern homes it is a loyal, adaptable family dog that seems to track the mood of its people closely.

Temperament and family life

A Tibetan Terrier is warm with its family and wants to be involved in daily life. It is often sensitive, taking note of tension in the house, and it can be reserved with strangers until it has had time to judge them. Many act as an alert watchdog without being excessively noisy.

The breed typically does well with considerate children and with other pets, particularly when raised with them. It has a playful, sometimes clownish side, and a habit of leaning against its people. A Tibetan Terrier left alone for long periods can become anxious or destructive, and it is not suited to being kept outdoors.

Exercise and training

The breed has a good stamina but not a driven one. A daily walk of moderate length, some play in a fenced yard, and the chance to take part in agility, rally, herding trials or canine games satisfy most dogs. It can be as lively on a hike as it is quiet on the couch, which is part of its appeal for varied households.

Tibetan Terriers learn readily and respond best to patient, positive instruction. They can be stubborn if training is dull or repetitive, so short sessions and variety are useful. Early socialization prevents shyness. Some dogs jump or climb, so a secure fence is wise, and a leash is the safer choice near roads. In warm weather watch for overheating, since the coat can hide the signs.

Grooming and shedding

The long coat is the major commitment of the breed. It should be brushed and combed to the skin at least two or three times a week, with a light mist of conditioner, since hair that is brushed dry tends to break and mats can form quickly behind the ears, under the legs and in the britches. Many pet owners keep the coat in a shorter trim to reduce this, which makes upkeep much easier without changing the personality.

Loose hair is usually caught in the coat and removed by brushing, so the dog sheds little around the house. Bathe when needed, keep the hair around the eyes managed, and check the ears and feet for debris after outdoor walks.

Health

The breed is generally sound but is known for several inherited eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy and primary lens luxation, as well as hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism and neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, a serious neurological disease. DNA tests exist for some of these conditions. Responsible breeders test eyes and hips and avoid breeding carriers.

This is general information about the breed. A veterinarian is the person to ask about any particular dog.

History

The Tibetan Terrier is generally traced to the mountain regions of Tibet, where the breed was kept by herders and monks. It was regarded as a luck-bringing dog. The breed came to the West in 1922, when Dr. Agnes Greig, who had been given a puppy in gratitude for performing surgery, brought the first one to Europe and began breeding them. They were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1973.

Is the Tibetan Terrier right for you?

A Tibetan Terrier suits families and individuals who want a mid-sized dog that is affectionate, adaptable and happy on outings, and who are willing to keep up with grooming. It is less suited to households that are empty most of the day or to owners who prefer a low-maintenance coat.

Other breeds to compare include the smaller Lhasa Apso, the shorter-coated Tibetan Spaniel and the larger, more energetic Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.