The Tibetan Mastiff is a large breed with a sturdy bone structure. This dog is well muscled and powerful. It has a wide, massive bear-like head, a blunt muzzle that is lighter than that of the English mastiff, and an extremely strong jaw. The Tibetan Mastiff is one dog you would not want to keep in an apartment. They are ferocious protectors of livestock and property, can confront and intimidate Snow Leopards and Wolves in it's native land, yet can be loyal and gentle with family, as long as they have a very strong, dominant pack leader (owner). This is not a dog to be considered as a companion for an elderly person. The TM can reach a height of 31 inches and weigh as much as 220 pounds. The Tibetan Mastiff comes in a wide color range with black or black and tan as the most common. They are a regal and beautiful breed.

The TM's face has a solemn yet kind look. They are very noble and impressive with an alert appearance, a look of watchfullness always present. This is a powerful, heavy and well built dog, and a little longer that it's height. They have a thick coat which requires very little grooming except in the spring when it sheds it's undercoat, then it will need daily brushing to get rid of the shedding. The TM does not have that familiar "doggy smell" that a lot of breeds do. For people who are allergic to dogs, they will have no problems around the TM, for it is hypoallergenic. The tail, which is heavily plumed, is carried curled over the back.

Although they need a large yard to exercise in and enjoy a nice leisurely daily walk with their owner, they should not be exercised vigorously due to their size. Vigorous running or jogging is too hard on their joints.

The TM is aloof and watchful with strangers and very protective of it's family and property. This was their original purpose in life. In Tibet, they were called gate dogs, or do-kyi, as the Tibetans referred to them, because they were often chained to the gates of the villages or monasteries as guardians.

The TM has a dry mouth, which is good in places like it's original home in Tibet during harsh winters. This means that there are no secretions from the mouth which could freeze and damage the lips and mouth. The need for survival in their native land meant that only the most robust and hardy dogs lived to breed, which produced this powerful and well bred breed.

The Tibetans placed strong religious and cultural significance on this breed. They believed that the melon pips over the dog's eyes were "spirit eyes" which were alert to danger even as the dog slept. The Tibetan Mastiff is much revered for their devotion to master and family, home, and property. They are extremely intelligent, and extremely independent, capable of making their own decisions. They are a protector and defender and they take their job seriously. They are gentle, loyal, fearless and capable of taking the initiative when the situation demands.

Once you start looking into this breed of dog, you will fall in love with it, for the adorable puppies are irresistible. But, please, do your research well and make wise decisions before bringing home that lovable, soft and cuddly little puppy! That cute little guy will grow into a large, powerful dog that needs room to roam. It will bond closely with you but is very capable of making it's own decisions and may not always be obedient to your commands. In fact, it may sometimes be positive that it knows better than you in some situations (and maybe rightly so).

This breed deserves respect for it's size, intelligence, loyalty and beauty. A strong but loving master will gain respect and love in return from this beautiful dog.

The American Tibetan Mastiff Association (ATMA) is a member of the American Kennel Club and, as such, is the only National Tibetan Mastiff Breed Club which is recognized and sanctioned by the AKC. For more information on the breed, for ordering an ATMA 2009 calendar, which will give proceeds to the Tibetan Mastiff Rescue, and for some beautiful pictures, visit the sites at the related links below.

American Tibetan Mastiff Association (ATMA)
Tibetan Mastiff Calendar
Upcoming Tibetan Mastiff Events