The Tibetan Terrier, also known as the Luck Bringer, the Holy Dog, the Dhokhi, the Dhokki Apso, the Bhutan Terrier, the Bhutanese Dog, the Bhuteer Terrier, the Bhuteer Dog, the Lhasa Terrier, the Tibetaanse Terrier and the Darjeeling Terrier, was eveloped to herd flocks of sheep and to be a trusted family companion. It is not truly a terrier at all, as it does not have a terrier’s disposition and never was bred to “go to ground” as an earth dog to flush prey. The Tibetan Terrier’s present name is thought to be derived from his size, which arguably resembled that of other terriers of the day more so than sheep-herding dogs. Rigorous natural selection has contributed to the health and stability of this hardy breed. Tibet has difficult terrain and extreme climatic conditions, both of which suit the Tibetan Terrier just fine. The breed is known for being happy, healthy, intelligent, affectionate and fond of barking. It has been described as resembling a smaller Old English Sheepdog, or a larger, longer-legged Lhasa Apso. The Tibetan Terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club and admitted to its Non-Sporting Group in 1973.
The adult Tibetan Terrier ideally stands 14 to 16 inches at the withers and weighs 18 to 30 pounds. Its profuse double coat is soft and woolly beneath and long and fine on the outer side. It parts naturally over the center of the neck and back and requires regular combing to prevent tangles and mats. Any color or combination of colors, including white, is acceptable in this breed, without any given preference over another. The Tibetan Terrier is not much of a shedder, making it a good choice for people with allergies.
This small terrier has been bred and raised in Tibetan villages and monasteries for hundreds of years. It originated in the Lost Valley of Tibet, whose access road was destroyed by an earthquake in the 14th century. The Tibetan Terrier was treasured by the monks in this remote and largely inaccessible area as a companion and “bringer” of good luck. He was also used in the villages to herd flocks of sheep; his coat was
The name “Tibetan Terrier” is actually misleading, as these dogs are not technically terriers and don't exhibit common terrier traits. They were given the “terrier” moniker because of their size only. Though they are lively and plucky like a terrier, Tibetans are also very gentle and good matured and are rarely high strung. They are highly adaptable dogs and can live in an apartment or sprawling estate, in the city or in the country. All
The Tibetan Terrier is a medium sized dog that is built more like a sheepdog than a terrier. They are covered in a thick double coat made up of a dense undercoat and a long, fine outer coat that comes in any color or color combination. Tibetan Terriers are squarely built and have a level topline. The eyes are large, wide set, and dark The ears are pendant and heavily feathered and the tail is
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