The breed is known as “Do Khyi” in Tibet, but we know it as the Tibetan Mastiff, and it might very well be a direct descendant of one of the oldest breeds of LGD (livestock guardian dog) known. Back in the day, Tibetans were said to be much larger than they are today, and early explorers described the dogs as being the size of a donkey, but while “some” breeders are working to “grow” the breed, heritage breeders know that the average healthy weight for females is typically 90-120 pounds and 100-140 pounds for males. Be educated, and don’t be sold an unhealthy dog.
As far as its efficacy as an LGD, we’ve read that the Tibetan Mastiff makes an excellent property guardian, but it’s not necessarily well-suited specifically for livestock. These dogs will protect property in general from predators, but not necessarily a flock. We’d very much like to hear from breed experts – Tibetan Mastiff owners – to educate the rest of us about their breed as guardian dogs.
Image: Tibetan Mastiff Animal Fine-brush Chinese Ink Brush Painting. We don’t know the artist, and upon receipt of information, we’d happily credit this talented person.
Most responsible Tibetan Mastiffs fanciers do not recognize the writings of travelers to the East in the time of Marco Polo (1200). The descriptions are brief and do not describe a group of dog, but more often one dog. Also at the time the donkeys and the people were smaller in stature. It is highly doubtful that a Nomadic dog that protected their territory against snow leopards and wolves would be as large as a donkey. Historical photographs are far more reliable as to the true size of the dogs, their agility and stamina. The Aboriginal dogs of today are large dogs, not giant. There would be no reason for them to become smaller. They look different than the Westernized dogs that were bred for height and substance, on the erroneous premise that they were, in the 1200s, a giant breed.
Thank you for the feedback, Marcha, we’re delighted to have the input of people who know the breed best. Your comments make perfect sense.