Man’s best friend; the term has long been used to refer to the dog. These days some will argue that it means beer, television or video games depending on the cultural background of that person. But throughout history a common aspect of many cultures all over the world is the use of dogs as a companion. Cave paintings from 4000 BC have shown evidence of dogs being used as hunting companions, paintings, murals; books and historical data have all shown dogs being used by humans for war, security and maybe even as simple vanity items. The Shih Tzu despite being one of the closest relatives of the wolf has now become a vanity dog thanks to the efforts of the Chinese Imperial Dynasties.
But far from the vast palaces of the Forbidden City to the mountain towns of Tibet, another popular Chinese dog breed exists, the Tibetan Mastiff. The Tibetan Mastiff is popular for its gigantic mane, immense size and ferocity. Its Lahasa name Do-Khyi roughly translates to home dog or door dog, reflecting its status as a guard dog.
Despite its cultural status in Tibet as a guard dog the Tibetan Mastiffs Puppies are easily regarded as one of the cutest puppies around. Its big droopy eye’s and thick fur has garnered itself much attention from buyers. A contributor to the breeds success and popularity is the way Tibetan Mastiff puppies look. Tibetan Mastiff puppies can become a handful already at such a young age due to its large size and remarkably thick fur. Regarding its fur, Tibetan Mastiff puppies can be at least 7 to 10 inches tall and at least a foot long its size is easily comparable to its fur, which is at least 2 inches thick and can easily attract fleas and ticks. Though Tibetan Mastiff puppies would not be as aggressive or as defensive as a mature one, the cause for maintenance of Tibetan Mastiff puppies’ fur is important as even at its young age it already possesses an outgoing personality which can result in it trapping various organisms within its very thick fur. Tibetan Mastiff puppies can be prone to exploration as with many dogs, this is normal as it is their own way of learning.
Caring for Tibetan Mastiff puppies usually focuses mainly on maintaining the dogs inner instinct as a protector; this is a result of its very protective nature which has stemmed from its much defined status as a protector dog in Tibet. At the first 2 years of a puppy its own defensive and protective instincts are being developed which will coincide with its explorative nature, this occurs when the puppy begins identifying its family members whether they’re dog or human. Exploring and protective instincts happen when the puppy learns to mark its territory to protect its family. A danger that comes with this is the puppys increased bravery can get it in trouble with other animals, especially larger dogs. Also because of its thick fur, the puppys sensitive skin is prone to skin infections and most notably in the ear.
But despite its high maintenance and high security needs, after its first 2 years of growth, Tibetan Mastiff puppies will eventually grow into very efficient protectors of your family. Watch out for the fur though, they shed a lot.
