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Characteristics, History, and Health
Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan Terrier breed originated in the mountainous region of Tibet over 2000 years ago and is one of the oldest breeds to come out of that region. They were bred and kept by Buddhist monks (or Lamas) in monasteries, not as herders or hunters, but as companions, good luck charms, and occasionally guard dogs. The name "Tibetan Terrier" is somewhat of a misnomer as these dogs were not used for typical terrier work such as hunting or burrowing after small game, but the name was given by European travelers due to the dog's size, which is similar to terrier breeds known in the west. The breed was introduced to the western world in the 1920s.
Main Info
- Origin
- Tibet
- Alternate Names
- Tsang Apso, Dokhi Apso
- Life Expectancy
- 15-16 years
- Average Male Height
- 14-17 inches
- Average Female Height
- 14-17 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 18-30 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 15-25 pounds
- Coat Length
- Long
- Coat Type
- Double
- Coat Colors
- Black, Black & Brindle, Black & Brown, Black & White, Black & White Brindle, Black Brown & White, Black White & Gold, Brindle, Brindle & White, Brown, Brown & White, Fawn, Fawn & White, Gold, Gold & White, Golden Brindle, Gray, Gray & White, Red, Red & White, Red Brindle, Sable, Sable & White, Silver, Silver & Black, Silver & White, White, White & Black, White & Gold, Black & Gold
- Coat Pattern
- Ticked, Black Points, White Markings, Black Markings, Black Mask, Sable
Genetic Predispositions and Health
Tibetan Terriers can suffer from joint issues when spayed or neutered too early. They may also be affected by geriatric heart murmurs, hypothyroidism, distichiasis, ceroid lipofuscinosis, vestibular disease, skin allergies, thyroid issues, bladder stones, periodontal disease, hip and patella issues, and cancer. They are also prone to eye disorders such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Genetic testing for these and other conditions including degenerative myelopathy, neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, primary lens luxation, progressive retinal atrophy is recommended.
Personality and Behavior
Tibetan Terriers are known for their loyal, affectionate, and sensitive nature. They are usually very attached to their family members and can be wary of strangers. Despite their somewhat reserved nature, they can also be playful and lively, particularly when interacting with their loved ones. These dogs are intelligent and can be trained well with positive reinforcement methods, though they can also exhibit a stubborn streak.
Fun Facts
The Tibetan Terrier has also been called Tsang Apso, meaning "shaggy or bearded dog, from the province of Tsang".
Despite their name, Tibetan Terriers are not true terriers. The name was given by Westerners who noticed their size was similar to terrier breeds known in Europe.
In Tibet, these dogs were often referred to as "Luck Bringers" or "Holy Dogs" due to their cherished status in the monasteries.
Due to their origins in the rugged, mountainous terrain of Tibet, Tibetan Terriers are unusually agile and sure-footed, characteristics that can still be seen in the breed today.
References
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/tibetan-terrier/
https://www.ukcdogs.com/tibetan-terrier
https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/TIBETAN-TERRIER-209.html
https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/c_dg_tibetan_terrier
https://www.pawprintgenetics.com/products/breeds/64/
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