The Tibetan mastiff is a one of the most massive dog breeds out there that has a sturdy bone structure. Despite its size, it is known for its qualities such as courage, calmness, even-tempered nature, and thoughtfulness. Great for indoors as it is very quiet; it may tend to bark at night when it is left alone outside the house.
Popular among families because of its cute and charming appearance: broad and heave wrinkled forehead, broad muzzle, large black nose, slightly slanted brown eyes, and feathered tail that is curled over the back. The Tibetan mastiff is also adored for its immense and thick double coat, with a heavy mane around the neck that grows shorter on the head.
The Tibetan mastiff is thoughtful and loving especially when it comes to children as pleasing its owners is part of their nature, but it may distrust may even act reserved when it comes to strangers, so proper socialization is required.
Because of its courageous nature, the Tibetan mastiff has a strong desire to guard and protect its family and property.
For those who have other non-canine pets, the Tibetan mastiff can generally be stable and good-natured. But for it to get along with other dogs, the owners must be able to firmly and properly communicate that fighting is not an allowed behavior.
The Tibetan mastiff is a fearless companion that is easy to housebreak, but needs a strong, firm, confident, and consistent pack leader as its master to prevent them from being hard-headed, over-protective, and territorial.
It will not listen to any commands if it senses that it is more dominant or strong-minded than its owner, so owners must possess a natural air of authority and confidence to lead it properly as it is natural for them to recognize an order in its pack. Lines and rules must clearly be set for it; spoiling it is highly discouraged.
Size
Can grow up to 25 to 28 inches, or 61 to 71 centimeters
Coat Care
Quality of coat is given precedence over its length
Trimming is not at all recommended except for providing a clean cut appearance of feet and hocks
Must be brushed regularly; must be brushed every day in warmer seasons
Family Life
Tibetan mastiff is great for families, but it requires a firm, strong, confident pack leader to keep it from misbehaving
Lifestyle
When properly socialized and has a strong pack leader to look up to, it will adopt to the lifestyle of your family
Health
Life expectancy of about 15 years or more
Genetically inclined to experience a fatal problem called Canine Inherited Demyelinative Neuropathy or CIDN, also prone to hip dysplasia, thyroid problems, skin conditions, and ear infections
Exercise
The Tibetan mastiff must be taken out on regular walks to satisfy their instinct to migrate, but must not be overworked as it may lead to problems in the bones, muscles, and joints
Training
May be challenging to train as it requires an experienced owner because it needs a strong pack leader that will make the decisions for him
