Tibetan Terrier Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Tibetan Terrier is a medium-sized, shaggy companion from the Himalayas. Despite its name, it is not a true terrier. It was kept by Tibetan monks and herders as a companion and watchdog, and it is friendly, sensitive and devoted.

Origins and appearance

The breed was kept in Tibet for centuries, and it is said to have been called a terrier by early Western visitors because of its size. Tibetan Terriers are square and sturdy, with a profuse double coat, a fall of hair over the eyes, a bearded face, large flat feet that act like snowshoes and a tail curled over the back.

Temperament

They are friendly, affectionate and sensitive. They are usually good with children and other pets. They can be reserved with strangers. They are lively and playful. They dislike being left alone and may bark.

Exercise

They need an hour or so of daily exercise, with walks and play. They enjoy agility and games. They adapt well to apartments if exercised.

Training

They are intelligent and eager but can be independent. Use positive methods, short sessions and early socialization. Teach quiet cues early. See also how to use treats in dog training.

Coat and grooming

The long coat needs brushing several times a week to prevent mats, and many owners keep a shorter trim. See silky coat dog grooming guide. Clean around the eyes, ears and feet. Trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Progressive retinal atrophy, with a DNA test
• Primary lens luxation, with a DNA test
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Ceroid lipofuscinosis, a neurological condition with a DNA test
• Dry eye. See dry eye in dogs
• Skin allergies. See dog skin allergies

Living with a Tibetan Terrier

They suit families and individuals with time to groom and exercise. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to long hours alone or owners wanting a low-maintenance coat.

A typical day

A Tibetan Terrier wants a morning walk, grooming, play, a rest and an evening outing. Many follow their owners from room to room.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy and fluffy. Begin socialization, handling and grooming early. Provide chew toys. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for grooming tools or a groomer and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate cold well but overheat in hot weather. Provide shade and water. They travel well when exercised.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include skipping grooming, leaving the dog alone, overlooking eye care and skipping socialization.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about eye and DNA tests, hip scores and the parents' temperaments. Meet the parents and see how they live.

Snowshoe feet

The breed's large, flat feet with hair between the toes spread weight on snow. They also catch mud, ice and burrs, so check the paws after walks and trim the hair between the pads as advised.

Monastery companions

Tibetan Terriers were kept in monasteries and valleys as companions and good-luck dogs, according to commonly told accounts. Their devotion to people still defines the breed.

Daily care checklist

• A walk or play session.
• Brushing the coat and checking for mats.
• Wiping the eyes and checking the ears.
• Checking and cleaning the paws.
• Company and a comfortable bed.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Tibetan Terrier suits owners who want a friendly, shaggy companion and will groom daily and provide company. It may not suit those wanting a low-grooming dog. For another Tibetan breed, see the Lhasa Apso.

The takeaway

Tibetan Terriers are friendly, shaggy and sensitive, and they need grooming, exercise and company.