Tibetan Mastiff

[polarpaws]

For a few years I've been researching this breed heavily, and I've spent a lot of time with a breeder, and am thinking about buying one to have for myself so I can enjoy them without having to travel!

They are absolutely gorgeous, and the breeder I befriended is excellent, doing all the tests and giving the lifetime guarentee that I always look for, and give to my own buyers. Her dogs have GORGEOUS thick coats and lovely structures, and naturally they're a bit pricey, since she puts so much money into each and every dog she has, which is completely reasonable.

Does anyone else have experience with this breed?

[golden&hovawart]

I use to know the breed pretty well.Beautiful dog and amazing watch dog.They will be shown as an AKC dog, in January.Usually female and male do not get along too well with their own gender.You need to be the alpha dog but you know that already cos you're familiar to tough breeds(akita).They are very loving to one owner and not considered the best family dog,unless, brought up with kids as a puppy.Obviously this is the same for many breeds.A friend of mine got a female but he wasn't alpha enough for the dog and he had many problems with it.The dog became dangerous and had to be put down but I also know many success stories.Good luck and keep us posted!.

[EnchantedGypsy]

I've been traveling to rare breed shows the past couple years. At the Spring '06 show, one of the specialties was for Tibetan Mastiffs. I'd seen them in books & magazines for many years, but never in-person. They are gorgeous, impressive dogs; and the puppies are insanely adorable:p One thing I thought was a bit odd though.... TMs are a very old breed, but there was quite a bit of variance in "type". For example, some were tall with very long legs; others were stout and very Chow-like. Which is the desired type?

I was there for the Silken Windhounds. Being a "new" breed (1984), they also have some issues with "type" to work out....

[musky hunter]

http://www.tibetanmastiff.org/photogallery/

[CamzKees]

I have always heard that TMs are very primitive dogs, especially in regards to their heat cycle, coat blowing, and protective instincts.

Indeed, they are beautiful animals- pretty rare, too.

Please show us lots of puppy pics!

[Zoes_mama]

I've always loved this breed but it's not for everyone. They are a gorgeous dog. I really love the black and tan coloured ones.