Tibetan Terrier
Bhutan Terrier, Darjeeling Terrier, Dhoki Apso, Lhasa Terrier, Tibetanse Terrier, Tsang Apso
Despite its name, the Tibetan Terrier not a terrier at all. In its homeland it was originally bred to herd sheep and sometimes can still be found doing so. It excels in working with livestock and is capable of running over the back of sheep when they are in close quarters. Every summer the dogs’ coats are clipped with the sheep and their hair is combined with yak strands to create a woven cloth. Today most Tibetan Terriers enjoy the quiet life of a companion.
Tibetan Terrier Standards
- 14-16"
- 18-30 lbs
- medium-sized breed
- falling, pendant ears are heavily feathered
- medium length tail carried over back
- double coat is long, may be wavy or straight
- can be any color
History of the Tibetan Terrier
The origin of the Tibetan Terrier is unknown, although it is likely closely related to another Tibetan breed, the Lhasa Apso. Recent DNA studies show that they are one of the oldest breeds in the world. Tibetan Terriers were prized as “Lucky Bringers” and “Holy Dogs” by those that owned them. These dogs were only given as gifts and therefore stayed hidden from the rest of the world for many years. They were first introduced to the outside world by surgeon A.R.H. Greig. She obtained dogs in the early 1920s when working in a hospital on the border between Tibet and India.
Related Breeds: