The origin of the breed, the standard of the exterior, the character of the Tibetan Mastiff, a description of the dog's health, advice on care, interesting facts. Price when buying a puppy. The Tibetan Mastiff is the greatest pride and endless glory of Tibet, the most mysterious territory in the world. And although in Tibet this huge dog is engaged in quite ordinary "dog" work "- guarding livestock and guarding monasteries and dwellings, we must not forget that this is a dog with a millennial history, no less mysterious than the Himalayan mountains themselves, blocking the path to the legendary Shambhala … Animal, the true grandeur and the mystical meaning of the exterior of which is quite comparable only with the bewitching magical dazzle of the mountain peaks of Tibet.
The history of the origin of the Tibetan Mastiff breed
The Tibetan Mastiff (Tibetan Mastiff), almost the most ancient dog on Earth, with a legendary history of its existence for thousands of years, covered with ancient legends, myths and parables. And modern geneticists fully agree with this, whose studies have definitely confirmed that dogs, originating from Tibet, are the closest genetically to their wild ancestors and are the most ancient in the world.
Be that as it may, and the first written confirmation of the antiquity of the genus of these unique animals we find in the bamboo chronicles of Ancient China, dating back to 1121 BC. It was in that year, as it is written in an old document, that the Chinese emperor Wu (Shang-Yin dynasty) received a magnificent mastiff dog of unprecedented size from the Tibetan priests (the height of the dog in terms of modern measures of length reached almost one and a half meters). The name of this ancestor of all mastiffs was Ngau, and he was trained to hunt people "with colored skin" (it is difficult to say which specific people were discussed in the ancient document).
The main spread of the Old Tibetan mastiffs to other territories occurred mainly through the Celestial Empire and India during all kinds of raids and military campaigns. No conqueror could resist the temptation to have a dog of such a unique appearance and size as a prey. The most famous case for historians, when Alexander the Great entered India with his troops and had already defeated the army of elephants of the Indian king Pora in the Battle of Hydasp, suddenly turned back to Macedonia. And although some researchers believe that the fatigue of the army was to blame. Others believe that the gifts received by Alexander the Great from Tsar Sophit, including 150 Tibetan Mastiffs, "who could tear a lion apart", played a significant role here.
The Shaker of the Universe, Genghis Khan, also had a lot of these magnificent dogs. According to some reports, up to 30 thousand dogs were in his army before the start of the conquest campaign "to the last sea." It was as the conquering dogs that many Asian mastiffs ended up in Europe. From the Tibetan Mastiffs, or, as they are also called, Great Danes, many dogs of our time lead the genealogies. These are: Mongolian Banhars, Turkmen Alabai, Uzbek Buribosars, Kazakh Tobets, Caucasian Shepherd Dogs and other large breeds.
The most amazing thing is that, despite such a long history of existence and rather dynamic distribution around the world, the aboriginal Tibetan Mastiff was lost for a long time in the centuries and by the beginning of the 19th century it was, in fact, rediscovered by the British, who first entered the territory of Tibet.
In general, the modern name "mastiff" was given to the Tibetan animal by the British, by analogy with the European large mastiff dogs (it would be more correct to call this species "Tibetan mountain dog"). And although travelers from Great Britain managed to describe the found dog, the British managed to take out the mountain aboriginal mastiff from Tibet only in 1847. And this was done by Lord Harding, who managed to overcome all border and national barriers and presented the "huge dog of Tibet" to Queen Victoria.
Over time, the first exhibition (1859) was held in Great Britain, at which a unique dog from Tibet was presented. In 1873, the Tibetan mountain dog was entered in the Great Britain Canine Studbook and received the official name "Tibetan Mastiff".
In 1974, two more Aboriginal Tibetan Mastiffs were brought to the UK. This time, they went to the Prince of Wales (future King Edward VII), who already in 1975 presented him to a wide range of dog lovers at the next exhibition. Since then, the breed has been gaining particular popularity in aristocratic circles and aboriginal mastiffs are regularly delivered to the British Isles.
Interest in the "Tibetans" was gaining momentum, and already in 1931 the Association of Tibetan Dog Breeds was created. A breed standard was developed and immediately approved by the FCI. But with the outbreak of World War II, the flow of animals imported from Nepal and India stopped for a long time (until 1976) and British breeders had to try not to completely lose the breed.
In the late 50s of the XX century, the Tibetan Mastiffs (of the British branch) were presented to the President of the United States, but did not cause much excitement and were simply sent to the ranch and for some reason forgotten. In the 70s, the first aboriginal representatives from Nepal were brought to the United States. The breeders were interested in these dogs and in 1979 the first animals, already of the American branch, were presented at the exhibition.
In Russia, until recently, the population did not even know about the existence of Tibetan mastiff dogs, despite the fact that the first dogs were brought from France, the Netherlands and Finland back in 1998. And although the popularity of these dogs in Russia is gaining strength (especially in the capital cities) there are no full-fledged kennels (as well as especially outstanding individuals) in Russia yet.
Purpose and use of the Tibetan Mastiff
The dog that lives in the mountains of Tibet, as well as in the countryside of China, is still a working guard dog that guards the homes of local residents.
In addition, show-class dogs or, as they are called in China, "Tsang-Khyi" (Tsang-Khyi) not only participate in the fight for medals at championships and prestigious exhibitions, but are a kind of symbol of wealth and security of their owner. In Europe and the United States, "Tibetans" are also more often brought up for prestige and participation in exhibitions. Being an ordinary pet somehow does not work out - a dog is too expensive for people of the middle class.
External standard "Tibetan"
The Tibetan Mastiff is a huge dog of a completely unimaginable species, resembling a stately lion overgrown with wool or a rather large bear. It is simply impossible to remain indifferent to its unique exterior.
According to the standard, the height at the withers of the animal does not have maximum restrictions (the larger the dog, the more valuable it is, and similarly in terms of body weight). The minimum size of the breed is indicated as 66 cm for males and 61 cm for females.
- Head large, massively voluminous, with a large wide skull. The occipital protuberance is strongly pronounced. The stop (transition from the forehead to the muzzle) is distinct, distinct. The muzzle is wide, voluminous, bluntly cut, and well-filled. The lips are dense, with moderately developed flecks. The bridge of the nose is wide, somewhat shorter than or equal to the length of the skull. The nose is large, with large nostrils, evenly pigmented. The jaws are very powerful with a regular scissor-like or straight (standard allowed) bite. The teeth are large, white, with large canines.
- Eyes oval, small to medium in size, with a wide oblique set. The color of the cornea of the eye is dark (any shade of brown color: from light brown to dark brown). The eyes are expressive, attentive, with an expression of self-esteem and self-confidence.
- Ears the Tibetan Mastiff has a triangular shape, medium in size, set high, hanging and hanging close to the cheekbones. When the dog is alert, they rise.
- Neck very powerful and strongly muscled, with a slight dewlap. Around the neck is a rich fur collar that adorns the dog, giving it an even more powerful look.
- Torso Molossian massive type, slightly elongated, very strong and powerful. The chest is deep and rather wide, developed, ovoid. The back is muscular, very strong, wide and straight. The line of the back is raised to the croup. The dog's croup is strong, wide, and high. The belly is moderately tucked up.
- Tail set on high, thick at the base, medium in length, carried over the back, richly covered with long fur.
- Limbs "Tibetans" straight, moderately long, muscular. The hind ones are somewhat longer than the front ones. The bones of the limbs are thick and strong. Paws are oval, close together, large, but not huge, well covered with fur. Dewclaws are acceptable.
- Wool the quality of the cover of the Tibetan Mastiff is valued much higher than its quantity. The coat is thin, dense, partly long, but nowhere short, with a very warm thick fluffy undercoat. The quality of the coat is tough. Silky, curly or wavy texture is not allowed. In males, the coat is much richer. There is a fluffy fur collar and rich feathering.
- Color Mastiffs are quite diverse: brown, fiery black, black and tan, all possible variants of red and gray, gray and tan (golden tan), reddish red and intense red. White markings on the feet are allowed, and in special places (chest, above the eyes) are even encouraged. Also, the color of special markings may not be white, but golden or orange.
In addition to international standards, Chinese canine specialists dealing with Tibetan Mastiffs divide these dogs into two types, each of which is evaluated at championships separately (unlike Western championships, where both types are combined into one category):
- Do-Khyi - a widespread working type of mastiff, engaged in the most routine work in everyday life - protecting dwellings from predators and thieves. Do-khi are almost equal to Tsang-ki in size, but sharper-faced and not so vociferous. However, this type is also popular and loved by the Chinese, who pay tribute to the tradition and respect the exceptional working qualities of the dog.
- Tsang-Khyi - purebred dogs, purposefully bred to participate in championships, as well as to emphasize the special status of their owner. This type has a massive skeleton, a very massive and voluminous head and muzzle. In the presence of all kinds of elements that adorn the dog: large folds of skin, pendants, feathering, mane and more. But, as they say in China: "Even the best Tsang-hee is just a bad Do-hee."
The character of the Tibetan Mastiff
There are many "horror stories" about the character of the Tibetan mastiff, telling what a terrible and ferocious beast this is, capable of dealing alone with a whole bunch of opponents, and paired with another dog to defeat a lion or even an elephant. Sites advertising the breed, on the contrary, claim that the mastiff dog is very affectionate and friendly. Who is right and where is the truth? And the truth, as always, is somewhere in between. After all, a mastiff is different. It can be both kind and terrible, so to speak, according to the situation.
We must not forget that the working "Tibetan" is a guard dog that has been tested for centuries, all of whose actions are always verified and rational. It is not for nothing that the Tibetan Mastiff is famous for its endurance and oriental contemplation. He feels great people and their intentions. That is why it never leaves the place unnecessarily. He is waiting. And only after finding out the criminal intentions of the stranger - he attacks with all the strength and power of a high-speed tank.
The mastiff intended for exhibitions is completely different. And he shouldn't be aggressive, otherwise he won't get a medal. That is why the show mastiff is much more benevolent and less suspicious, in a completely different way perceives the people around him than the working "Tibetan". Therefore, speaking about the character of the Tibetan dog, it is always necessary to understand its purpose. A working dog, brought up in severity and accustomed to guarding, always turns out to be more ferocious, decisive, and principled than his show brother. Well, a properly educated and timely socialized candidate for champions is always more well-behaved, more calm and almost never inclined to aggression.
Nevertheless, both types are always affectionate and attentive to their owner and members of his family, obedient and easily trained. He never violates the established order, but he also does not like to be "sprayed" on stupid teams. This is a dog who always strives to live in harmony with himself and with those around him, majestic and unyielding, like the Himalayan mountains.
Tibetan Mastiff health
The health of a "Tibetan" directly depends on his line of origin. The aboriginal mastiffs (now extremely rare) are considered the healthiest. It is these nature-hardened aborigines who do not have pedigree "sores", with a strong immune system, who live up to the age of 16 and even more.
But with the dogs of the English or American branch of development, everything is far from so simple. There, and life expectancy reaches only 10-13 years. Yes, and there are enough predispositions to disease. Most often these are hereditary diseases associated with the bones of the extremities: dysplasia of the hip and elbow joints, dissecting osteochondritis, hypertrophic neuropathy and panostitis.
Tibetan Mastiff Care Tips
It is not recommended to keep a Mastiff in an apartment or in a house. He definitely needs living space and physical activity. The dog must be combed out (at least 1-2 times a week).
As for nutrition, the famous "Tibetan" breeder Lu Liang, who raised the world's most expensive puppy, recommends feeding the mastiffs with selected beef and delicious shellfish: sea cucumbers and abalone. What will you feed your pet with is a master's business.
Interesting facts about the Tibetan Mastiff
The exterior of the Tibetan Mastiff is not only exceptionally unique and delights dog lovers around the world. It also has a mystical component, which is very important for the indigenous Tibetans. So, the color of an animal, which for Western people has only a purely aesthetic value, is considered differently in Tibet.
The presence of light or white spots above the eyes of an animal indicates the existence of another pair of eyes in the dog, which means that the dog is very alert (he never sleeps) and is able to look into the soul of every person, having timely discerned good and black thoughts. White spot on the chest - the mastiff is very brave because he has a brave heart. White mark on the chin - the dog will definitely bring good luck to its owner.
And the color of the coat itself is very important. The most prized red-brown large dogs. Such a specimen of a "Tibetan" puppy named Big Splash (Hong-Dong) was recently acquired by a Chinese coal magnate for 1.5 million US dollars, immediately making the breed even more prestigious and most expensive in the world.
Price when buying a puppy of the Tibetan Mastiff breed
In Russia, Tibetan Mastiffs are a very rare breed of dogs, and the aboriginal branch of these dogs, like the scarce red mastiffs, does not exist in the country at all. Therefore, it is possible to purchase a thoroughbred Tibetan Mastiff puppy only in nurseries in Europe or in the USA. The cost of a puppy is one of the highest in the world. Even the minimum price is in the range of $ 2,500-13,000.
More informative information about the Tibetan Mastiff in this video:
