Breed Spotlight: Tibetan Mastiff

Coat Type and Colors

Tibetan mastiffs’ coats are medium length and can come in multiple colors. Their double coat consists of a heavy undercoat and coarse guard hair. Many of these dogs have a large mane and feathering on their hind legs and tail.

The American Kennel Club official breed standards list the following coat colors for this breed:³

• Black
• Black and tan
• Brown
• Red gold
• Brown and tan
• Blue gray
• Red gold sable
• Blue gray and tan

White markings are also acceptable under the AKC breed standard.

Shedding and Grooming

Tibetan mastiffs don’t shed much throughout the year. However, they “blow” their undercoat once a year. This seasonal shed leads to a massive amount of shedding in the spring or summer. During a blow, use an undercoat rake or deshedding tool to help your Tibetan mastiff fully release their undercoat. Despite their fluffy appearance, Tibetan mastiffs require minimal grooming. Their coat should still be maintained properly with weekly brushings. Brushing will help remove dirt and tangles in their tail, mane and hind legs.

Drooling Level

Excessive drooling should not be an issue for Tibetan mastiffs. But as a larger breed, owners should expect some drool. 

Ears and Tails

Tibetan mastiffs’ ears are medium-sized and thick with short, soft fur. They are V-shaped, high set on the dog’s head and slightly drooped forward. Tibetan mastiffs’ ears are not cropped.

Their tails are heavily feathered and typically curl over the dog’s back.

Behavior

Bred as guard dogs, the Tibetan mastiffs’ temperament is protective yet affectionate. They bond well with their family and will protect them fiercely. It’s best to shield Tibetan mastiffs from arguments where their protective nature could escalate the situation.

Most of their activity is motivated by their patrolling nature in outdoor settings, so they are often fairly calm indoors. Many can be very playful, but most prefer work-related tasks. Be alert, as Tibetan mastiffs are known for having random bursts of energy.

Left unstimulated, Tibetan mastiffs may develop destructive chewing habits, so be sure you give them something to do.

Exercise Needs

Although they can have short bursts of energy, Tibetan mastiffs lack endurance and only require moderate daily exercise. A large, private fenced-in area is best for their activity needs and interests.

Walks are acceptable, but Tibetan mastiffs should never be off-leash due to their unreliable recall. It’s also best to switch up their walking routine so they don’t become territorial over a specific route.

Good With Other Pets?

Tibetan mastiffs are usually good with other dogs in the household, even small ones. However, they may not be appropriate play mates for strangers’ pets.

Trainability

Tibetan mastiffs are highly intelligent and learn quickly. However, they are also highly stubborn and often won’t respond to traditional obedience training. They don’t care to learn the same thing more than once.

The Tibetan mastiff is not a breed for new dog owners or pet parents who lack confidence. This breed’s stubbornness often makes them prefer to do things their way, especially if they disagree with their owner.

Tibetan mastiff puppies should still be socialized early and introduced to training techniques. Safe introductions to strangers are especially important for this breed.

Good with Kids?

The Eskie is an excellent family dog and absolutely adores children. Remember that all dogs should be supervised around young kids and kids who don’t interact with dogs often.

Barking Level

Tibetan mastiffs aren’t known to be excessive barkers during the day time, but they are known to be night barkers. To avoid barking a lot during the evenings Tibetan mastiffs should be kept indoors.

Tibetan Mastiff History and Fun Facts

The Tibetan Mastiff — officially accepted into the AKC in 2006 — has a very rich history as an ancient breed:⁴

• The Tibetan mastiff is still considered a primitive breed, meaning they evolved with minimal human interference.
• They are believed to be the original ancestor for all modern mastiffs and mountain dogs.
• In Tibet, they are called “Do-Khyi” which means “tied dog.”
• A Tibetan mastiff named Big Splash holds the Guinness World Record for the most expensive dog.⁵ Big Splash was purchased for the equivalent of $1.5 million USD in 2011.