Tibetan Terrier Puppies for Sale

Country of Origin:

Tibet

Available Puppies

0 Check back soon!

Share This Breed

Breed Characteristics

Average Size: Small

Average Lifespan: 12-16 years

Kid/Pet Friendly: Sometimes

Registry: aca,akc

Activity Level: high

Shedding Level: moderate

Grooming Level: high

Trainability: moderate

Good For Novice Owners: moderate

Adaptability: high

Prey Drive: low

Watchdog: aware

Breed Information

Overview

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.

Temperament

Tibetan Terriers are quintessential companion dogs that also happen to be skilled at working as well. They tend to be amiable, affectionate, and friendly. They are sensitive souls that are in-tune with their owners. They also tend to get along well with older children. Due to their watchdog background, they tend to be wary and suspicious of strangers, but are not known to be aggressive or shy towards them. They also have an assertive bark and will let you know when someone is coming onto the property, but they do not tend to bark excessively unless they have been trained into it.

Did You Know?

The Tibetan name for this dog breed is Tsang Apso. A rough translation of this refers to a shaggy, bearded dog from the Tsang province. The Lhasa Apso is considered their smaller cousin.