Tibet is the highest region on the planet, known for the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest. However, among other wonders, it’s also where a handful of incredible dogs were developed. So here’s your guide to the Tibetan dog breeds and what you’ll want to know about each of them.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small long-haired Tibetan dog. The breed’s dense coat helps to keep it warm even at extremely high elevations. Although it is slightly larger, it is often confused for the Shih Tzu, another Tibetan breed. The Lhasa Apso is a companion dog that bonds closely to one owner.
Since it’s naturally alert and also has excellent hearing, in the past it was used as a watchdog in monasteries. In fact, the Tibetan name for the breed is actually the Apso Seng Kyi which translates to, “bark lion sentinel dog.” The Lhasa Apso is considered to be one of the ancient dog breeds.
Tibetan Kyi Apso
The Tibetan Kyi Apso is a rare breed even in its home country. It’s a large dog with a wiry long coat and beard. This is a livestock guardian that was developed to guard sheep and yaks. It’s related to the Tibetan Mastiff although, it’s known for being more laidback in temperament and about half its size.
However, when the situation calls for it, the breed can be highly defensive of its flock and territory. The Kyi Apso is a primitive and hardy dog able to withstand the extreme conditions of the Himalayas.
Tibetan Mastiff
This is a very large and powerful mastiff breed. It has traditionally been used as a flock guardian for sheep and other livestock keeping them safe from predators such as leopards and wolves. This breed is also used to guard property as well. Like its cousin the Kyi Apso, it’s considered a primitive dog breed.
In recent years the Tibetan Mastiff has become increasingly popular as a status symbol in China, and dogs have been sold for outrageously high prices. Due to its strength, size, and guarding instincts this is not for inexperienced owners.
Tibetan Spaniel
Despite its name and appearance, the Tibetan Spaniel is not a true spaniel. In fact, it is actually believed to be related to the Pug, Pekingese, and Japanese Chin. In the past, it was used as a companion to the monks and as a watchdog in monasteries.
Today it functions as a loving family pet that’s good with kids and will alert to the presence of strangers. This small Tibetan dog has an independent nature and is highly intelligent. The Tibetan Spaniel is also well-known for its tendency and ability to climb, similar to a cat.
Tibetan Terrier
While this breed has “terrier,” in its name, it isn’t actually a working terrier breed. Instead, it got the name because to early Westerners exploring Tibet it looked similar to other terriers that they were familiar with. This is a medium-sized dog with a long and heavy coat that needs regular grooming.
Like other breeds listed here, this is another Tibetan temple dog that served as a watchdog and companion. The Tibetan Terrier is known to get very attached and develop separation anxiety.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is one of the most popular small dog breeds in the world. Because it was bred to look similar to a lion in appearance, it’s also sometimes called the Tibetan Lion Dog. While its exact ancestry is unknown it’s believed that the breed was originally from Tibet and further developed in China.
Whether it is specifically a Tibetan or Chinese dog breed is a point of great controversy. This is a long-haired toy breed and its small size makes it ideal for apartment living. To keep its long facial hair from blocking its vision, it’s common for owners to tie up its hair in a topknot.
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