Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan mastiffs have big heads and bulky builds which contribute to their relatively hulking appearance. They are generally about 24 inches to 31 inches in height at the shoulder. Their weight averages

anywhere from 100 to about 160 pounds. These dogs which originated in Tibet have coats that can be gold, brown, grey or black in colour. They may also have tan markings on some areas of their body like around the eyes, their forelimbs, or the underside of their tail. The hairs on their coats are thick, stiff and straight. This allows them to have ample protection during times of extreme weather conditions. Another defence mechanism that these dogs have is the thick coat over their neck area, where their enemies are most likely to attack.

Tibetan mastiffs have been used by shepherds to protect herds against predators like wolves, and also by Tibetan monks as guardians from intruders and vicious animals. Like other types of mastiffs, Tibetan mastiffs are very loyal and protective of their owners and families. They are wary of strangers but will drop their guarded stance if the owner or a family member is with the intruder. Just how hostile these dogs are varies according to their age and gender, as well as how they were bred. This aggression, however, does not extend to children with whom these dogs are quite gentle.

These dogs are known to be quite clever but they can also be stubborn at times. Proper training, especially while they are still pups, will allow them to be more docile to commands.