Dog breed · Utility / Non-sporting
Tibetan Terrier
Not a true terrier — a Tibetan monastery and herding companion bred for sure-footedness in snow. Affectionate and clownish at home, watchful outside.
Small12–16 yearsTibetCan suit apartments
Representative breed photography. Appearance varies within every breed.
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Utility / Non-sporting
- Origin
- Tibet
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 8–14 kg
- Height
- 36–43 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–16 years
- Coat
- Long double coat; large flat 'snowshoe' feet
- Temperament
- DevotedReserved with strangersAgileSensitive
History
Kept for centuries in Tibetan monasteries and nomad camps as companions and luck-bringers; never sold, only gifted.
Appearance
Medium-small, square dog hidden under a long double coat, with distinctive large flat feet.
Exercise and activity
45–75 minutes daily; surprisingly agile and enjoys dog sports.
Care and grooming
The long coat needs line-brushing several times a week or a practical pet clip.
Health considerations
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Hip dysplasia
- Lens luxation