Tibetan Terriers

Appearance:

Body: Compact, sturdy, square, and well-ribbed with a level backline.

Coat: Long, thick, abundant hair-like outer coat with a warm, fine, woolly undercoat.

Color: Solids, parti-colors, tri-colors, brindle, or piebald.

Ears: Medium size, dropped, v-shaped, and feathered.

Eyes: Large, dark, wide set, black rims.

Feet: Large, flat, and round with a snowshoe appearance, covered with hair.

Head: Moderately long, narrow, hidden behind profuse hair, marked stop (but not prominent), black nose and small beard.

Legs: Forelegs are straight and well-muscled. Hindquarters are muscular, hocks low set, stifles well bent.

Neck: Proportionately long and strong.

Size:
Weight: 18 - 30 pounds
Height: 15 - 16 inches

Tail: Medium length, high set, well feathered and curled up over the back.

Behavior

Recommended for Novice dog handlers
Good with other animals
Adaptable to urban and country living conditions

A good luck charm, the Tibetan Terrier was once cherished in the holy city of Lhasa, by those lucky enough to own one, because of the belief that he would bring them luck. He was never sold, only given as gifts, for the fear of having bad luck.

He originated in Tibet where he was affectionately referred to as "little people" and was a valuable companion to travelers going to and from the isolated monasteries of the Tibetan Lost Valley.

With his affectionate, good-natured disposition he is a excellent family pet. The Dhoki Apso is playful, curious, and alert with quick athletic movements and a love for outdoor fun. He easily adapts to most any lifestyle but is not a dog meant to be left alone, inside or outside on a chain, for extended periods of time. He needs and relishes the comforts of home and the companionship of humans.

AKC Standard says, "The Tibetan Terrier is highly intelligent, sensitive, loyal, devoted and affectionate."

With his sensitive personality he can easily be crushed spiritually with harsh treatment and raised voices. Obedience training, and all other interactions, should consist of positive encouragement, gentle correction, reward-type treats, and lots of praise for a job well done.

Breed Type

AKC Group: Non-Sporting

Originally used as companions, caravan dogs, herders, and guardian of livestock.

He is not a terrier but has been named as such due to his size.

Care and Grooming

Exercise: Moderate exercise such as a daily walk and some play time is sufficient.

Grooming: Brush every two to three days. Dry his ear canals after being in the rain and after baths.

Health

Life Expectancy: 13 - 14 Years

Possible Problems:
Cataracts
Hip Dysplasia - degenerative joint disease
Lens Luxation
Luxating Patella - dislocation of the knee caps
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) - can lead to blindness

Recommended Certificates:
CERF - for the eyes
OFA - for the hips

Country of Origin

Tibet