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Tibetan Terrier

Non-Sporting Group

Affectionate, intelligent and versatile

Tibetan Terrier

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Breed Overview

This breed is a great companion for those who can commit to their grooming and exercise needs, and they thrive in a loving, interactive family environment.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Medium
  • Height 14-17 inches at the shoulder
  • Weight 18-30 pounds
  • Life Span 12 to 15 years
  • Coat A long, thick double coat that can vary in texture; requires regular grooming
  • Color Wide variety, including white, black, gold, and many others
  • Grooming Regular grooming is essential due to their long coat. This includes frequent brushing to prevent matting and tangling
  • Temperament Tibetan Terriers are known for being affectionate, loyal, and sensitive. They tend to form strong bonds with their families
  • Energy Level Medium; enjoys daily walks and playtime
  • Intelligence High; responds well to training but can be stubborn
Health Needs
  • Exercise Moderate; they require regular exercise but are usually adaptable to their owner's lifestyle
  • Trainability Intelligent, responsive, and eager to learn, Tibetan Terriers excel in training with positive reinforcement
  • Socialization Early socialization is important to prevent them from becoming shy or reserved
  • Grooming Regular grooming is essential due to their long coat. This includes frequent brushing to prevent matting and tangling
  • Health Issues Generally healthy, but they can be prone to certain genetic conditions like hip dysplasia and eye disorders
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Best for families seeking a loving, adaptable pet that thrives on companionship and play
  • Suitable Living Space Best for adaptable living, thriving in apartments or homes with outdoor access

About the Breed

Tibetan Terriers are versatile, and able to adapt to various climates and situations. Their history as monastery dogs in Tibet means they are comfortable both in solitude and in the company of others. They are not known for being barkers, but they will alert their families to anything unusual.

History of the Breed

The Tibetan Terrier, bred by Tibetan monks over 2000 years ago, served as a companion and symbol of fortune. Misnamed as terriers due to their size, these dogs were isolated until the early 20th century. Dr. Agnes Greig’s introduction of the breed to the West led to worldwide recognition and popularity.

Tibet China

Fun Facts About the Tibetan Terrier

What To Expect When Caring For a Tibetan Terrier

Health

Generally robust, but watch for genetic conditions like hip dysplasia, eye disorders, and certain allergies. Regular vet check-ups are essential to monitor their health.

Grooming

Their long, thick coat requires frequent grooming. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent matting. Regular bathing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning are also necessary.

Exercise

Requires moderate exercise. Daily walks and playtime are sufficient. They enjoy activities that stimulate both their mind and body.

Training

Respond well to positive reinforcement techniques. Early socialization and obedience training are important.

Nutrition

Balanced diet suited to their age, size, and activity level. Consult with a veterinarian for dietary recommendations.

Owning a Tibetan Terrier is a rewarding experience. These dogs are not just pets but become beloved members of the family. Their unique history, combined with their loving and adaptable nature, makes them an excellent choice for many households.

Tibetan Terrier Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

Tibetan Terriers are generally healthy dogs but, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. Being aware of these common issues can help in early detection and management.

Description: Genetic condition causing an improper fit of the thigh bone in the hip joint, leading to pain, lameness, or arthritis.

Description: Eye diseases cause gradual retina deterioration, leading to night blindness and eventually total blindness.

Description: Displacement of the eye's lens due to deteriorating ligament, can cause glaucoma and vision loss.

Description: Hereditary disease with underdeveloped kidneys in young dogs, can lead to kidney failure.

Description: Kneecap slips out of place, causing lameness or abnormal gait, with varying severity.

Description: Caused by food, contact, or inhalants, leading to itching, skin infections, and ear infections.

Description: Insufficient thyroid hormone production, leading to obesity, lethargy, and hair loss.

Hip Dysplasia

Description: Genetic condition causing an improper fit of the thigh bone in the hip joint, leading to pain, lameness, or arthritis.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Description: Eye diseases cause gradual retina deterioration, leading to night blindness and eventually total blindness.

Lens Luxation

Description: Displacement of the eye's lens due to deteriorating ligament, can cause glaucoma and vision loss.

Juvenile Renal Dysplasia (JRD)

Description: Hereditary disease with underdeveloped kidneys in young dogs, can lead to kidney failure.

Patellar Luxation

Description: Kneecap slips out of place, causing lameness or abnormal gait, with varying severity.

Allergies

Description: Caused by food, contact, or inhalants, leading to itching, skin infections, and ear infections.

Hypothyroidism

Description: Insufficient thyroid hormone production, leading to obesity, lethargy, and hair loss.

Regular veterinary check-ups and monitoring are crucial for maintaining the health of a Tibetan Terrier. Early detection and management of these conditions can greatly improve the quality of life for these dogs. It's also important for potential owners to obtain their pets from reputable breeders who conduct health screenings on their breeding dogs.

Prescription Medication Assistance for Tibetan Terriers

The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Tibetan Terrier?

The annual cost of caring for a Tibetan Terrier, or any dog, varies based on several factors, including your location, the dog’s health, and the level of care and amenities you choose to provide. Here’s a breakdown of the typical expenses:

A purebred Tibetan Terrier puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

Initial Cost

$1000 - 2500

Potential Additional Costs:

When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Tibetan Terrier enthusiasts.

Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

Initial Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

High-quality dog food and treats for a medium breed.

Estimated Cost

$250 - 700

Potential Additional Costs:

Learn more about the best quality dog food for Tibetan Terriers.

Tibetan Terriers require regular grooming. Costs vary based on whether you groom at home or use professional services.

Estimated Cost

$300 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

Tibetan Terriers require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

Estimate Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Tibetan Terrier's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

Your Tibetan Terrier will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

Estimated Cost

$205 - 750

Potential Additional Costs:

Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

Estimated Cost

$35 - 70

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

$2790 - $7420

It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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