Tibetan Terrier

• ExerciseModerate

  A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment15–16 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Patellar luxation · Progressive retinal atrophy

The Tibetan Terrier is not a terrier at all but an ancient Tibetan 'holy dog', bred over centuries as a cherished monastery companion and good-luck charm, with large flat 'snowshoe' feet for mountain snow. Affectionate, sensitive, playful and adaptable, it bonds closely with its family and is a devoted, gentle companion, though it retains a watchful, alert nature and can be reserved with strangers. Sensitive and intelligent, it responds best to gentle, patient, positive training and early socialisation, and it does well in many homes including apartments as long as it gets daily exercise and, above all, close company — it dislikes being left alone. The long, dense double coat needs thorough brushing several times a week to prevent matting; many owners keep it in a shorter clip. Health-wise the Tibetan Terrier is a hardy, long-lived breed, but buy from a breeder who does the available genetic tests, since it is prone to inherited eye disease (progressive retinal atrophy and lens luxation, both testable) as well as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation and a neurological condition (NCL). Choose a tested line, keep up grooming and dental care, give a Tibetan Terrier exercise and close company, and this gentle 'holy dog' will be a devoted companion for fifteen to sixteen years.

• How much exercise does a Tibetan Terrier need?

  Moderate. A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• How much grooming does a Tibetan Terrier need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Tibetan Terrier suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Is a Tibetan Terrier a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Tibetan Terrier live?

  15–16 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Tibetan Terrier?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Patellar luxation, Progressive retinal atrophy. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

Be the first to join this community!