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Your Pet, Our Passion.

Tibetan Mastiff

Having the features of a lion and the size of a giant, the Tibetan Mastiff is determined, intelligent, and obedient – at times. Other times, they will do as they please. As they are very strong-willed, the Tibetan Mastiff would make a great companion for a breed expert that can understand their particular personality and needs.  

It would also be highly recommended for Tibetan Mastiffs to live on a large property and not have to interact with close neighbours or unknown visitors. 

Lifespan
12–15 years
Weight
36–72kg
Height
Adult male dogs stand at a minimum of 66cm and females at a minimum of 61cm
Colours
Black, golden, brown, blue
Size
Giant
Kennel Club group
Working
The need-to-know
  • Dogs suitable for experienced owners
  • Extra training required
  • Generally healthy breed
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys more than two hours of walking a day
  • Giant dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming daily
  • Quiet dog
  • Barks, alerts and may be physically protective/suspicious of visitors
  • Might not like other dogs
  • May need additional training to live with other pets
  • May need additional supervision to live with children
  • Needs a large garden
  • Best suited to countryside
  • Can be left occasionally with training
Generally healthy breed

Tibetan Mastiffs are generally a very robust breed but can suffer from: 
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia 
- Gastric dilatation volvulus 
- Ear infection

Priority Kennel Club health schemes and testing:
- Hip dysplasia screening scheme  
 

Tibetan Mastiff Appearance

A giant dog, slightly longer than he is tall, the Tibetan Mastiff dog is a powerful, muscular breed that is athletic and agile, with a dignified composure. The dense coat is quite long and there is a 'mane' around the neck and shoulders, which is more obvious in male dogs.  

The Tibetan Mastiff colours and markings can vary from black, golden, and brown, to more unusual colours such as blue. 

Tibetan Mastiff Personality

A guard dog through and through, the Tibetan Mastiff is not a breed to take on lightly. He is wary of strangers and naturally protective of his family and property. Experienced handling, socialisation, and training are needed, as with all guarding breeds. In the right home, he is a calm, affectionate, and loyal companion. This is a dog recommended for an expert only as it would need to be handled and trained properly. 

Tibetan Mastiff Fun Facts

  • The Dalai Lama had eight Tibetan Mastiffs guarding his summer residence at Norblinka — two dogs at each entrance. 
  • The earliest record of these dogs in England was in 1828 when one was presented to London Zoo — and then the Viceroy of India sent one to Queen Victoria in 1847. 

  • In 1970, the breed found another role when Nepalese drug smugglers used them to ship illegal drugs into the U.S. in the bottom of their dog crates. Strangely, customs officials weren’t particularly keen to search them! 

  • The heaviest Tibetan Mastiff in the world lives in Tibet and weights around 113 kg. 

FAQs 

Is the Tibetan Mastiff dog aggressive? 

Tibetan Mastiffs can be aggressive when provoked, as they might feel protective if they perceive a threat from strangers. However, with proper socialization and training, they rarely show any signs of aggression. 

Are Tibetan Mastiffs friendly? 

Yes, Tibetan Mastiffs can be very friendly, loyal, and loving to their family.  

What to know before getting a Tibetan Mastiff? 

One of the most important things to know before getting a Tibetan Mastiff is that because of their large size, they are not suitable for apartments and the grooming process will require some effort. 

Can a Tibetan Mastiff be left alone? 

Tibetan Mastiffs can occasionally be left alone, but you should avoid leaving them for long periods of time as they might become bored and destructive, especially when they’re young.