Tibetan Terriers
Breed History
Breed Basics
Tibetan Terriers are a native breed from Tibet, where they were prized companions and believed to be lucky dogs. The Tibetan Terrier was bred and raised in monasteries by Lamas 2000 years ago. Known as the, "Holy Dog of Tibet". Their heritage and lives developed in an enviroment that included the extreme climates, mountains, high plains, cliffs, and terrains of Tibet.
The Breed dogs were not only used as temple companions but they lived with nomads and others as family pets, helpers in caravans, herding, guards, or retreiving. Their great strength and structure gave them the agility to ride the back of a large yak. They could leap from heights to the ground, sure-footed and agile.
Their nature and personality is often unique with their person or family. People who have loved a Tibetan, typically, never forget that particular companionship. Owners describe the TT as personal, sensitive, loving, independent, aloof, compassionate, intelligent, michievious and sometimes capable of jealousy.
The Tibetan Terrier is known for its beautiful, long, double coat. The eyes are shaded for protection from the elements. The feet are structured for snow. The TT beautiful tail is carried over the back.
This is a Non-Sporting Breed with an historical Standard. You will find the full standard at the link below. The height is generally 14-17 inches at the shoulder. Typically they weigh between 18 and 30 pounds. The breed officially arrived in the United States in 1956.
A Brief History
Ask A Tibetan Terrier Owner of Their TT Experience and They Can Talk Forever.
Health
The Bond Between TT and Owner is Profound
This website features a Special Section about
Tibetan Terrier Health in our menu choices. Here, we will remark that the Tibetan Terrier is a hardy and long lived breed. Concientious breeders use DNA testing to avoid the risks of heritable diseases or conditions. People should ask their breeder for evidence of health testing. Read our pages about Breed Health, Health Testing and other information from our Health Committee.
Reading List
The Dalai Lama of Tibet (1977). My Land and My People. NewYork: Potala
Alice W. Murphy (1964). How to Raise and Train a Tibetan Terrier. Jersey City:T.F.H. Publications, Inc.
Jane Reif (1984), The Tibetan Terrier Book. The Southern Press
Angela Mulliner (1977). The Tibetan Terrier. 2 Volumes. Oxford, UK: Hollywell Press
Ratne Deshapriya Senanayake (1967). Inside Story of Tibet, Ceylon Writers' Association: Afro-Asian Writers' Bureau
Lilo Hess ( 1985), The Good Luck Dog. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons
Hanne Mathiasen (2022), Tibetan Terriers The Little People. Denmark: Forlaget Mathiasen
Robert Z. Apte (1990). Three Kingdoms on the Roof of the World. Berkeley, CA: Parallax Press
Anne Keleman (1994). Tibetan Terriers. New Jersey, Neptune City: TFH Publications, Inc.
Anne Keleman (2003). Tibetan Terrier. New Jersey, Neptune City: TFH Publications, Inc.
Cheryl S. Smith (2001). The Absolute Beginners Guide to Showing Your Dog. New York: Three Rivers Press
George G. Alston (1992). The Winning Edge, Show Ring Secrets. New York: Wiley Publishing, Inc.