Laravel

As their name suggests, the Tibetan Terrier originated in Tibet thousands of years ago. These dogs served several purposes in Tibet. Not only were they often kept as mascots, companions, and good luck charms, but Tibetan Terriers were also working dogs. They could often be found working as herding dogs, watchdogs, and for retrieving articles that fell down the sides of mountains. These dogs were so highly prized that they were considered the “Holy Dogs of Tibet”. With this elevated status, the dog breed was never sold - they were only gifted by monks.

Although they are called a terrier, they are not a member of the Terrier Group. They acquired the terrier name from European travelers to the region who thought they resembled other known terrier breeds. An English doctor who performed a successful operation in Tibet received a Tibetan Terrier as a gift. She is credited with bringing the first dog of the breed to Europe in 1922. From there, the breed gained popularity. Tibetan Terriers first came to the United States in 1956 and the AKC recognized the Tibetan Terrier in 1973 as part of the Non-Sporting Group.