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The Tibetan Terrier is not a member of the terrier group, the name being given to it by European travelers to Tibet who were reminded of terriers from back home when they first encountered the breed. Its origins are uncertain at best, as some sources claim them to be lucky temple dogs, whereas others place them as general use farm dogs.
The Tibetan Terrier is a dog with many uses, able to guard,
herd, and also be a suitable companion dog. Their utility in
Tibet meant that the first examples of the breed available in
the west were generally given as gifts, as the Tibetan
Terrier, along with other Tibetan breeds, were too valuable to
the people who owned them to casually sell. As such, the early
history of the breed is linked to only a handful of foundation
dogs.
The Tibetan name for the breed, Dhoki Apso, roughly
translates to "shaggy or bearded (Apso) outdoor dog
(Dhoki)." Other "Apso" dogs from Tibet include
the smaller and more familiar Lhasa Apso (called the Lhasa
Terrier in the early 1900s) and the very rare Kyi Apso. Recent
DNA analysis has concluded that the Tibetan Terrier is one of
the most ancient dog breeds.
Appearance: The appearance of the Tibetan Terrier is
that of a powerful, medium sized dog of square proportions,
with a shaggy coat. Overall, there should be a feel of
balance.
The head is moderate, with a strong muzzle of medium
length, and a skull neither rounded nor flat. The eyes are
large, dark, and set fairly far apart. The V-shaped drop ears
are well feathered, and should be set high on the sides of the
skull. The nose is always black, regardless of coat colour.
The body is well muscled and compact. The length of the
back should be equal to the height at the withers, giving the
breed its typical square look. Height for either sex is 14-16
in (35-41 cm) and weight is 18-30 lb (8-14 kg), with 20-24 lb
(9.5-11 kg) preferred, but all weights acceptable if in
proportion to the size.
The tail is set high, well feathered, and carried in a curl
over the back. One of the more unusual features of the Tibetan
Terrier is the broad, flat feet, not found in any other dog
breed. They are ideal for climbing mountains and act as
natural snow shoes.
Coat: The double coat is profuse, with a warm
undercoat and a topcoat which has the texture of human hair.
It should not be silky or curled, but wavy is acceptable. Long
and thick, it is shown natural, but should not be so long as
to touch the floor, as is typical in breeds such as the Lhasa
Apso or Maltese. A fall of hair covers the face and eyes, but
long eyelashes generally prevent hair from getting in the
Tibetan Terrier's eyes, and the breed has very good eyesight.
Colour: All colours are permissible, barring liver
and chocolate, and none are preferred. Tibetan Terriers are
available in any combination of solid, particolour, tricolour,
brindle or piebald, as long as the nose leather is black and
the eyes and eye rims are dark.
Temperament: The temperament has been one of the
most attractive aspects of the breed since it was first
established in the 1920's. They are amiable and affectionate
family dogs, sensitive to their owners and gentle with older
children. As is fitting a dog formerly used as a watch dog,
they tend to be reserved around strangers, but should never be
aggressive nor shy with them.
Suitable for apartment living, the Tibetan is still an
energetic and surprisingly strong dog, and needs regular
exercise. Their energy level and intelligence is well suited
for dog sports such as agility. They are steadfast,
determined, and clever, which can lead to them being stubborn.
Some dogs of this breed can often be jealous, which can make
it hard to live with another pet. Though not yappy, the
Tibetan Terrier has an assertive bark, likened to a rising
siren.
Health: The Tibetan Terrier enjoys the long life
span often associated with small dog breeds, and generally
lives from 15-17 years.
Though an athletic breed that has been bred for a natural
look, the Tibetan Terrier is still susceptible to a variety of
health problems, especially those related to the eyes and
joints. These can include:
Canine hip dysplasia
Luxating patella
Progressive retinal atrophy
Lens luxation
Cataracts
Because of that, Tibetan Terrier clubs recommend purchasing
from breeders who participate in eye and hip testing, such as
the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF) and Orthopedic
Foundation for Animals (OFA).
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