"Defense! Defense!"
The Tibetan Mastiff will be your best friend, protector, and the kids’ favorite playmate. These dogs are creatures of habit who thrive in environments with simplicity and routine. Their ideal days involves a nice, long walk, followed by a quiet rest on the couch.
Tibetan Mastiffs are head-strong, dignified, and very mellow. Like many other kinds of Mastiffs, Tibetan Mastiffs will protect your home with all their might. They have a history of aggression, but dogs that are Western-bred are noticeably calmer. With a long reputation as guard dogs, this breed is territorial and defensive of their family and home. They can be hard-headed at times, but living with an experienced dog owner who can maintain authority and establish a daily routine with keep them happy and obedient.
Tibetan Mastiffs are a long-haired breed with dual-layer coats of black, golden brown, or grey fur. Some dogs also have tan and/or white markings on their chest or feet, along with a longer “mane” on their head and neck. Frequent shedding is uncommon for Tibetan Mastiffs. Instead, they “blow” their entire coats once a year. Weekly brushing will keep their fur under control, but they’ll need it more often during their annual shed fest.
Tibetan Mastiffs are wonderful with children that they know, and with socialization, they can get along nicely with other dogs and pets too. Mastiffs don’t respond well to being ignored, so they need an attentive family that makes them feel like part of the inner circle. Once you build mutual respect with them and provide the right training, they’ll trust you completely and make it their job to keep you safe. Their large size and loud bark make them a better match for homes with spacious yards in cooler climates.
Tibetan Mastiffs enjoy exercise but don’t require a ton of it. Playing in a fenced-in yard or taking a few walks a day will keep them comfortable and in shape. As they age, one walk a day will do the trick. Cooping up Tibetan Mastiffs indoors will bring out their destructive side, so make sure to give them enough activity to stimulate their minds and bodies.