Tibetan Terrier Breed Guide
Also known as: TT, Holy Dog of Tibet, Tsang Apso
Holy dogs of Tibet, Tibetan Terriers are gentle, spirited companions whose shaggy coats and adaptable nature make them excellent household pets.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium
Weight
8-15 kg
Lifespan
14-16 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
Size
Medium
Weight
8-15 kg
Lifespan
14-16 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
About Tibetan Terriers
The Tibetan Terrier originated in Tibet over 2,000 years ago, where they were bred as companions and good luck charms by Tibetan monks. Despite their name, these dogs are not true terriers but were given this name by European travellers who thought they resembled terrier breeds.
Tibetan Terriers are medium-sized dogs with long, shaggy double coats in various colours including white, gold, cream, grey, smoke, and black. They're known for their distinctive beard and hair covering their eyes, giving them a unique appearance.
These dogs are intelligent, gentle, and make excellent family pets. They're generally good with children and are known for their loyal, affectionate nature. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation but are adaptable to various living situations. Their coats need daily brushing to prevent matting. While generally healthy, potential concerns include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and certain genetic conditions. Early socialisation helps ensure they develop into well-adjusted, confident adults.
Complete Care Guide for Tibetan Terriers
Expert advice on keeping your Tibetan Terrier healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Maintaining optimal nutrition for your Tibetan Terrier requires careful attention to their unique dietary needs throughout different life stages. A well-balanced diet forms the cornerstone of their health, directly impacting everything from coat quality to energy levels. These intelligent companions need precisely portioned meals with appropriate ratios of protein, fats, and carbohydrates to maintain their ideal weight.
Portion control plays a particularly crucial role, as Tibetan Terriers can be prone to weight gain. Regular monitoring of their body condition and adjusting serving sizes accordingly helps prevent obesity-related health complications. Adult dogs typically require different nutritional ratios compared to growing puppies, so it's essential to match their food to their current life stage and activity level.
Fresh, clean water should always be readily available, as proper hydration supports vital bodily functions and helps maintain their thick double coat. Consider using elevated feeding stations to promote better posture during meals, and establish regular feeding times to create a consistent routine. When changing diets, introduce new foods gradually over 7-10 days to prevent digestive upset.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Tibetan Terriers from our community of pet parents
Tibetan Terriers are typically affectionate, loyal, and sensitive dogs. They are known for their friendly disposition and are often good with children and other pets. Despite their name, they are not true terriers and don't possess the terrier-like traits of being overly energetic or feisty. However, like all dogs, individual temperaments can vary.
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