Tibetan Terriers are adorable, sweet, loving…and independent. These dogs have a stubborn streak and early puppy training can help you prevent behavioral problems in the future. With proper socialization, Tibetan’s can be a wonderful addition to the family.
Size:
20-30 lbs.
Exercise Requirements:
A daily walk or two will suit a Tibetan Terrier just fine, but they can also handle longer journeys or outings and enjoy games like Flyball. Their large, round feet are much like snowshoes, so they do well in winter and can romp in the snow with the best of them.
Mess Factor:
Tibetan Terriers shed lightly. Mess can be kept to a minimum with frequent brushing to remove loose hairs. Neat freaks take note: this terrier’s shaggy coat can pick up mud (and more) when you’re out and about, so expect to find some surprises around the house.
Barking and Volume:
This breed is generally fairly reserved, so barking is not usually an issue. They are calm and slightly cautious, so they may give warning barks.
Training Requirements:
Tibetan Terriers are independent and can be stubborn. To prevent raising a dog that walks all over you, take a puppy class and then consistently show your Tibetan that you’re in charge. Tibetan’s enjoy mental stimulation and will thrive with obedience training.
Ongoing Costs:
Health Factors: Tibetan Terriers may inherit or develop problems such as hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. *A reputable breeder can help minimize the risk of genetic disorders.
Grooming: Home grooming and the occasional visit to the groomer for a trim.
Training: Basic training. A puppy class will do.
Grooming Requirements:
The Tibetan Terriers’ long coat requires regular attention to avoid large knots and tangles, but a weekly brushing should take care of this issue. Note: If you keep the hair trimmed professionally, there will be less to do at home.
Kid Compatibility:
Patient, sensitive and loving, Tibetan Terriers will be devoted to their families and are great with kids. As always, early socialization with children is recommended.
Longevity:
12 years.
Approachability & Sociability: Towards Animals
Much like with their approach with children, Tibetan Terriers may be slightly reserved with other dogs at first but once they have been properly introduced (with supervision and encouragement), they’ll be fine.
Approachability & Affection: Towards People
Tibetan Terriers can be prone to separation anxiety and don’t like to be left alone for long periods of time. Make sure you are able to devote yourself, before you consider this breed. To help a Tibetan Terrier overcome shyness towards strangers, it is important to regularly introduce them to new people and socialize them properly as puppies. They may seem reserved and shy, but they are also quite calm dogs, so they may just be relaxing when others think they are being standoffish.
BE PREPARED FOR: Spending a lot of time untangling knots and brushing out a long coat, then snuggling together on the couch for twice as long.
