Tibetan Mastiff

Breed Type: Working
Common nicknames: Nomad Dog
Coat: Double
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Loyal, protective, independent, intelligent
Life expectancy: 10-14 years
Color & patterns:
Hero image
Tibetan Mastiff - black and tan
Tibetan Mastiff - Red gold sable
The Tibetan Mastiff is a breed that commands attention with their sheer size and majestic presence. These dogs are known for their thick, fluffy coats, which can range in color from solid black to golden brown, and for being one of the largest dog breeds, with males weighing up to 160 pounds. They are intelligent and independent thinkers with a strong sense of confidence and self-assuredness. Tibetan Mastiffs are an ancient breed with a rich history. They were originally bred in Tibet as guardians of livestock and monasteries. Their thick coats kept them warm in the harsh mountainous climate, and their protective nature made them ideal for guarding flocks of sheep or goats from predators such as wolves or leopards. Today, Tibetan Mastiffs are popular around the world as family pets, known for their loyalty and devotion to their families. But potential parents should be aware that these dogs require a lot of socialization and training, as their protective instincts can sometimes make them suspicious of strangers.

Tibetan Mastiff characteristics

Learn about about Tibetan Mastiff basics like their fur colors, shedding levels, how much grooming they need, and other Tibetan Mastiff facts.

Average height

26-34 inches (66.0-86.4cm)

Average weight

70-160 pounds (31.8-72.6 kg)

Average lifespan

10-14 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Grooming needs
OccasionallyFrequently
Full-grown size
Teeny tinySuper size
Good with cats
Likely to chaseHey, new pal!
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervisionReady to play
Training Aptitude
HeadstrongEager to please
How big is a Tibetan Mastiff?

Tibetan Mastiffs are quite large dogs. On average, males stand a minimum of 26 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 70 and 160 pounds, while females are usually a bit smaller.

Do Tibetan Mastiffs shed?

Yes, Tibetan Mastiffs shed. They have a thick double coat that sheds seasonally. Regular grooming can help manage their shedding, but they are definitely not low-shedding dogs.

How long do Tibetan Mastiffs live?

Tibetan Mastiffs typically live between 10 to 12 years. However, individual lifespans can vary based on factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, healthcare, and overall lifestyle. Providing proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can contribute to helping dogs of all breeds live long and healthy lives.

Tibetan Mastiff history

Learn about where this Tibetan Mastiff came from!

What were Tibetan Mastiffs bred for?

Tibetan Mastiffs were originally bred as guard dogs for livestock and property. Their large size, strength, and protective instincts made them well-suited for this role, as they were tasked with protecting herds from predators such as wolves, leopards, and bears, as well as defending homes and villages from intruders.

Where are Tibetan Mastiffs from?

Tibetan Mastiffs, as the name suggests, hail from Tibet. In their homeland, they’ve been used by nomadic cultures to protect herds and homes in the Himalayan region.

Tibetan Mastiff temperament

Learn about about the Tibetan Mastiff temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Are Tibetan Mastiffs good with kids?

Yes, Tibetan Mastiffs can be good with children who understand how to interact respectfully with them. Due to their size and protective nature, they may not be the best fit for families with very young children, as they could unintentionally knock them over during play.

As with any breed, it is recommended that your child is always supervised when interacting with your dog to keep both the child and dog safe. Teaching children how to properly approach and handle dogs is also crucial to ensure positive experiences for both the dog and the child, as is teaching dogs how to interact gently with children.

Are Tibetan Mastiffs aggressive?

No, Tibetan Mastiffs are not aggressive, but their protective instincts can sometimes be mistaken for aggression.

If you are concerned by any signs of aggression or reactivity in your dog, be sure to address it promptly with the help of a professional trainer or behaviorist. Pain, discomfort, or underlying medical conditions can sometimes contribute to changes in a dog’s behavior, so it may also be worth visiting a vet to rule out their health as a cause for their behavior.

Are Tibetan Mastiffs easy to train?

No, training a Tibetan Mastiff can be challenging due to their independent and strong-willed nature. They are intelligent dogs, but they can also be stubborn, so consistent and patient training is necessary.

That said, training any dog takes substantial time and effort, regardless of breed. Early socialization and positive reinforcement methods work best to establish good behavior and obedience.

Do Tibetan Mastiffs bark a lot?

Yes, Tibetan Mastiffs are known for being quite vocal. Tibetan Mastiffs bark, especially when they sense potential threats or unfamiliar activities in their territory. Their alertness makes them keen to sound the alarm when something catches their attention.

Are Tibetan Mastiffs good family dogs?

Yes, Tibetan Mastiffs can be good family dogs. They are loyal and protective, making them good guardians for families. However, they require early socialization and training to ensure they understand their role and boundaries within the family dynamic.

Are Tibetan Mastiffs good with cats?

Yes, Tibetan Mastiffs can coexist with cats, especially if they’re introduced to each other gradually and raised together. However, their strong prey drive may lead them to chase smaller animals, so supervision is essential when they’re around cats.

Are Tibetan Mastiffs good with other dogs?

Tibetan Mastiffs can be selective with other dogs. Early socialization and proper introductions can help them get along with other dogs, but their protective nature may lead them to be wary of unfamiliar dogs, especially of the same sex.

Are Tibetan Mastiffs smart?

Yes, Tibetan Mastiffs are smart dogs. They are independent thinkers and can be quite clever, although their intelligence sometimes comes with a side of stubbornness. This combination means they may not always follow commands blindly but rather evaluate situations and make decisions based on their own judgment.

Are Tibetan Mastiffs friendly?

Yes, Tibetan Mastiffs are friendly with their families but are generally reserved and can be aloof with strangers. They are loyal and protective of their family, but their natural temperament tends to be more serious and dignified rather than openly friendly with everyone they meet. Proper socialization from a young age can help them be more accepting of new people and situations.

Are Tibetan Mastiffs affectionate?

No, Tibetan Mastiffs may not be overly demonstrative with their affection compared to some breeds, but they have their own way of showing love and loyalty to their people.

Are Tibetan Mastiffs good for first-time pet parents?

No, Tibetan Mastiffs may not be the best choice for first-time pet parents due to their strong-willed nature and need for consistent training and socialization. They require experienced handling and a patient approach to training, which might be overwhelming for someone new to dog parenting.

Tibetan Mastiff health

Learn about about the Tibetan Mastiff health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Do Tibetan Mastiffs have health problems?

Tibetan Mastiffs are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues, including: 

  • Hip and/or elbow dysplasia: Hip and elbow dysplasia are two of the most common skeletal diseases seen in dogs. They are similar diseases in which either the hip or elbow joint has grown abnormally or is misshapen. The abnormal shape prevents the joints and sockets from adequately meeting one another, resulting in rubbing and grinding instead of sliding smoothly. Though the main complication with hip dysplasia is joint instability, the abnormalities present in elbow dysplasia often result in pieces of bone and/or cartilage breaking loose and irritating the joint tissues. Over time, the rubbing from dysplasia can cause a variety of issues, such as pain, lameness, and secondary osteoarthritis. Surgery can be done to fix the joint if diagnosed before the onset of arthritis.

  • Eye disorders: Tibetan Mastiffs may develop entropion, a genetic defect where one or both eyelids are inverted or roll inward and rub on the surface of the eye, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), a progressive degenerative disease affecting the retina that eventually leads to blindness.

  • Others: Tibetan Mastiffs may also develop gastric dilatation-volvulus, a sudden, painful, and life-threatening swelling and twisting of the abdomen; hypothyroidism, a thyroid malfunction that results in low hormone production and could cause obesity, low energy, and a brittle coat; overbites and underbites; and seizure disorders such as epilepsy. To identify some of these issues, a veterinarian may recommend hip, eye, and imaging tests.

Are Tibetan Mastiffs hypoallergenic?

No, Tibetan Mastiffs are not hypoallergenic dogs. They have a double coat that sheds, which means they can produce dander and allergens that may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Regular grooming and cleaning can help reduce allergens, but they are not a hypoallergenic breed.

Popular Tibetan Mastiff mixes

Some common breeds mixed with Tibetan Mastiff include:

  • Tibetan Wolfhound (Tibetan Mastiff + Irish Wolfhound)

  • Golden Mastiff (Tibetan Mastiff + Golden Retriever)

Tibetan Mastiff Mixes picture

Find Tibetan Mastiff puppies near you

Adopting a Tibetan Mastiff

We don't see any Tibetan Mastiffs available for adoption in your exact location or cities near you, but here are some adorable similar breeds in Columbus, OH.

Photo of Chevy (Simpsons Litter)

Chevy (Simpsons Litter)

Bernese Mountain Dog

Male, 5 mos

New Albany, OH

Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Hi, I'm Chevy! I'm a 4 month old bernese mountain dog mix. My siblings (the Simpsons litter) and I were rescued by RescuedOhio. My siblings have all been adopted, but I stayed with my foster a bit longer because I had a broken leg. My leg is now healed and I am ready to find my family! I no longer have to wear a cast, but I have some atrophy to my left hind leg from being in the cast for so long. It will take me some time to regain strength and build muscle, but I'm getting stronger and stronger. I can't wait to run around like a normal puppy again! I absolutely love my foster siblings. I love having a playmate and a companion to snuggle up with in the evenings. I would love to have a dog sibling in my forever home! Because I had a cast and activity restrictions, my potty training has been a slow process, but I am improving! It's so much easier without that clunky cast to drag along. I don't mind being crated. I am very food motivated, so you can easily train me with treats! My adoption fee is $400. This includes my neuter, deworming, a clean bill of health, vaccines and preventatives up to date. ##2344560##
Photo of HANNAH

HANNAH

Bernese Mountain Dog Golden Retriever

Female, 3 mos

Columbus, OH

Color
Brown/Chocolate - with White
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Good with cats
House-trained
Shots are up-to-date
Story
💕Ready for cuteness and cuddle overload? This adorable girl will lay in your lap forever if you let her. Lots of fluff to keep you warm on the cold winter nights. She is as sweet as she is cute. Wonderful with all other dogs and people. She is excited and ready to take in the big old world and everything someone or some family has to offer her. She has a wonderful outgoing personality but also just adores cuddles and treats by the fireside and on the couch. Goofy, playful, and energetic. She has a wonderful temperament, and her adorable face and warm eyes just light up the whole house. Anyone would be lucky to make her part of your life. This girl will have you wrapped around her little paw the minute you meet her. Guaranteed to bring numerous smiles to your life every day. If you’re ready to give this sweetheart a lifetime of belly rubs, treats, and a cozy bed, please reach out! Let’s find this sweet pup the forever home she deserves. Once adopted she will travel via the Rescue Transport to her new family. They travel each and every weekend from Memphis, Tennessee to the north east, delivering pups along the way as far north as West Greenwich, Rhode Island(transport is an additional $185.00).Gets your apps in fast she won’t be available long. Link to the application below. https://forms.gle/APKvbgFJcaRvgKgk9
Photo of HEATHER

HEATHER

Bernese Mountain Dog Aussiedoodle

Female, 3 mos

Columbus, OH

Color
Gray/Silver/Salt & Pepper - with White
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Good with cats
House-trained
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Ready for cuteness and cuddle overload? This adorable girl will lay in your lap forever if you let her. Lots of fluff to keep you warm on the cold winter nights. She is as sweet as she is cute. Wonderful with all other dogs and people. She is excited and ready to take in the big old world and everything someone or some family has to offer her. She has a wonderful outgoing personality but also just adores cuddles and treats by the fireside and on the couch. Goofy, playful, and energetic. She has a wonderful temperament, and her adorable face and warm eyes just light up the whole house. Anyone would be lucky to make her part of your life. This girl will have you wrapped around her little paw the minute you meet her. Guaranteed to bring numerous smiles to your life every day. If you’re ready to give this sweetheart a lifetime of belly rubs, treats, and a cozy bed, please reach out! Let’s find this sweet pup the forever home she deserves. Once adopted she will travel via the Rescue Transport to her new family. They travel each and every weekend from Memphis, Tennessee to the north east, delivering pups along the way as far north as West Greenwich, Rhode Island(transport is an additional $185.00).Gets your apps in fast she won’t be available long. Link to the application below. https://forms.gle/APKvbgFJcaRvgKgk9
Photo of HONEY

HONEY

Bernese Mountain Dog Golden Retriever

Female, 5 mos

Columbus, OH

Color
Tricolor (Tan/Brown & Black & White)
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Good with cats
House-trained
Shots are up-to-date
Story
💕Ready for cuteness and cuddle overload? This adorable girl will lay in your lap forever if you let her. Lots of fluff to keep you warm on the cold winter nights. She is as sweet as she is cute. Wonderful with all other dogs and people. She is excited and ready to take in the big old world and everything someone or some family has to offer her. She has a wonderful outgoing personality but also just adores cuddles and treats by the fireside and on the couch. Goofy, playful, and energetic. She has a wonderful temperament, and her adorable face and warm eyes just light up the whole house. Anyone would be lucky to make her part of your life. This girl will have you wrapped around her little paw the minute you meet her. Guaranteed to bring numerous smiles to your life every day. If you’re ready to give this sweetheart a lifetime of belly rubs, treats, and a cozy bed, please reach out! Let’s find this sweet pup the forever home she deserves. Once adopted she will travel via the Rescue Transport to her new family. They travel each and every weekend from Memphis, Tennessee to the north east, delivering pups along the way as far north as West Greenwich, Rhode Island(transport is an additional $185.00).Gets your apps in fast she won’t be available long. Link to the application below. https://forms.gle/APKvbgFJcaRvgKgk9
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Photo of JAMES

JAMES

Bernese Mountain Dog Belgian Shepherd

Male, 1 yr 2 mos

Columbus, OH

Color
Brown/Chocolate
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Not good with kids
Not good with dogs
Not good with cats
Story
new badge
Photo of Moose

Moose

Bullmastiff

Male, adult

West Jefferson, OH

Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn
Size
(when grown) X-Large 101 lbs (46 kg) or more
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Not good with cats
House-trained
Story
Rescued him from a previous home that was abusive. To big for my home but is the sweetest boy. 5/6 years old house trained and leash trained.