Trainability

The most important thing when considering training a Tibetan Mastiff is to understand their history. The breed was used as a guard dog for livestock and property, so this breed has the intelligence and drive to think for themselves. This means that training can be difficult particularly for first time dog owners. However, as this breed is big and powerful, patience and persistence are a must. They can be stubborn meaning that if your dog has no faith you are a strong leader, they will happily take over and simply stop listening. They will need strong leadership and patience. They are not known for their talents in dog sports or obedience, but it’s important to get disheartened as training is so important with a large dog. Keep your sessions fun and light, and stop when you can see your dog getting bored. Early socialisation is also important to ensure your pup grows into a well-rounded and happy dog. Puppy-preschool works wonderfully and will help introduce your pup to the world around them while also interacting with other dogs. Think sights, smells, experiences and lots and lots of people. But remember, this dog is first and foremost a guard dog. They will naturally bark at people particularly those coming onto their property or into their ‘pack’. Because of this; many owners only walk their dogs on leash. Ensuring you can control your big dog on leash is very important, and will prevent injury to yourself and possibly your dog.

Grooming

Your Tibetan Mastiff will require a decent amount of grooming to keep their stunning coats mat and tangle free. A good brush with a wire slicker-brush every few days will keep the coat looking spectacular. It’s important to concentrate more on the thicker areas of the coat including the mane and tail. The great news is this breed is not a ‘smelly’ dog so bathing is minimal. Like with all breeds it’s a good idea to get your pup used to being touched on the pads, paws, mouth and ears. This makes future vet visits stress free when it comes to examining a very large and very powerful dog. Nail clipping from a young age is also advisable, if you are unsure how to clip your pup’s nails ask your lovely vet nurse to demonstrate.

Exercise Requirements

Your precious dog will need around 30mins of brisk exercise each day in the form of a good on-leash walk, or play. They simply hate the hot humid weather so care must be taken when exercising your dog, particularly in hot climates. Only exercise your Tibetan in the early morning or late evenings. Due to their sheer size many experts will advise avoiding long walks and extended plays until your dog has grown, to prevent any joint issues. Speak to your breeder about the correct exercise in relation to your growing pups age.

Intelligence

The Tibetan Mastiff is an incredibly smart and independent breed. If you do not exercise your dog correctly or they are left to their own entertainment for too long, they will become one big destructive force. Training, exercising, socialisation and companionship is very important to this breed. If you do not have the time to invest in all of this the Tibetan may not be the best breed choice for your family. Consider boredom busting toys and activities when you are not at home to prevent problems.

Family Friendly

Tibetan Mastiff’s make wonderful family companions; however, they are fiercely protective over the ones they love. Training and socialisation can help with this natural trait. They are not really suited to households with small children, purely because their large size can get them into trouble knocking toddlers over and screaming can excite the dog causing them to break into play. However, with the correct socialisation, training and leadership this breed can fit into any home. Like with all breeds it is paramount to teach your children how to correctly and safely interact with a dog, and train your dog how to correctly play with your children. All interactions need to be supervised.

Indoor/ Outdoor

This breed does not take well to life locked outside all day every day. They will crave companionship and love. Due to their coats they are not suited to life outdoors, and will need ample cool zones and shade to protect against heatstroke. Due to their sheer size they also do not take well to apartment dwelling and will need to stretch those long legs. Like with all breeds providing ample protection from all weather is important as too, plenty of water.

Breeding

This breed does not take well to life locked outside all day every day. They will crave companionship and love. Due to their coats they are not suited to life outdoors, and will need ample cool zones and shade to protect against heatstroke. Due to their sheer size they also do not take well to apartment dwelling and will need to stretch those long legs. Like with all breeds providing ample protection from all weather is important as too, plenty of water.