Page 83 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

WORKING DOGS

Tibetan Mastiff

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN Slate-gray Black and slate-gray dogs
24–26in 85–280lb Over 10 years Gold may have tan markings.
(61–66 cm) (39–127kg) Black

One of the smaller mastiffs, this independent dog is THE WORLD’S MOST
extremely loyal but may take time to train and socialize EXPENSIVE DOG

One of the world’s oldest dog breeds, the to become well-known in the UK from the The Tibetan Mastiff is still uncommon beyond
Tibetan Mastiff was traditionally used to 1970s onward. Tibetan Mastiffs are also its native land, but this ancient breed has
become something of a status symbol in China.
guard livestock by nomadic shepherds in the becoming popular in China, where they are
In 2011 a young dog named Hong Dong (Big
Himalayas, as well as to protect villages and regarded as bringers of health and prosperity.
Splash) was sold to a Chinese coal baron for
monasteries. The dogs were often left to In its native country, the Tibetan Mastiff 10 million yuan (just over $1.5 million), so
roam free at night to guard villages, or left can still be rather large and fierce. However, becoming the world’s most expensive dog.
behind to guard shepherds’ families when the in the West, selective breeding and training Big Splash was prized not only for being a
men moved their flocks to higher pastures. have greatly reduced any aggressive perfect physical specimen, but also because
his coat was red—a lucky color in China.
Ancestors of these dogs were brought tendencies. The Tibetan Mastiff has strong
westward with the armies of Attila the Hun protective instincts, especially with children.
and Genghis Khan, laying the foundations It is a good house dog and companion,
for some of today’s giant although it is fairly independent-minded
Molossus breeds. and not overtly affectionate. The breed
Since the 18th century takes time to reach full maturity and needs
small numbers of thorough, steady training.
Tibetan Mastiffs Tibetan Mastiff bitches come into season
have been exported once a year rather than twice, as is usual for
to the West, but the dogs. The coat needs plenty of grooming
breed only started and is not suited for hot, humid climates,
but it does not have dander, which reduces
PUPPY the risk of allergic reactions.

Bushy tail carried
curled over back
Short-haired
drop ears
Black with
tan markings

Powerful
jaws

Coat forms
mane around
neck and White star
shoulders
on chest
Typical tan
markings
on legs Dense, straight coat

Feathering
between toes

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