Tibetan Mastiff: ISCDT’s Breed of the Week

ISCDT’s dog trainer course includes lessons on different dog breeds. Each month, we’ll discuss different breeds of dogs. This week, we share info on the Tibetan Mastiffs. Shedding light on their temperament, exercise needs, and some training tips. 

Physical Attributes

Tibetan Mastiffs have broad heads, high-set v-shaped ears, and a sagacious expression that adds to their regal appearance. Males typically weigh between 90 to 150 pounds, while females range from 70 to 120 pounds, making them a substantial presence in any household.

Temperament

These dogs are watchful, aloof, and have an imposing nature. While they may be aloof and territorial with strangers, Tibetan Mastiffs are incredibly devoted to their families. They are calm and are mellow companions, provided they receive the right amount of stimulation.

Exercise

Tibetan Mastiffs prefer moderate daily activity, such as patrolling or guarding, over high-energy play like fetch. These dogs preserve their energy when it is truly needed.  They are most active in cooler weather.  Avoid overexertion, as they are prone to overheating.

Training Challenges

Training a Tibetan Mastiff can be a challenging experience. Unlike some breeds, they are not easily motivated by food treats. These independent dogs do best with owners who have earned their trust and respect. It is important to start training early.  The saying “an old dog can’t learn new tricks” may have been created after working with a Tibetan Mastiff. While it is possible to teach an adult Tibetan Mastiff new commands and tricks, it will be challenging.  Patience and time will be in your favor.  It is important to have the dog work for everything.  Nothing should be given away for free.  Avoid yelling and punishing this breed. Instead, train through play, engage your dog, give plenty of praise and rewards.

While they are highly intelligent and can learn quickly, they may choose to follow their instincts over training commands. They do not enjoy repetition when learning. Once the breed learns something, they are not interested in repeating the command. Reliable recall can be an issue, so keeping them on a leash or in a securely fenced area is a must.

Boredom

Tibetan Mastiffs are likely to exhibit destructive behaviors, such as excessive barking, digging, or even aggression when they are bored.  It is important to provide mental stimulation. Establish a daily routine and provide mental challenges like puzzles, nose work, Kongs and interactive toys.

Interestingly, these dogs tend to love crates. Crating can be a useful tool to minimize destructive behavior and provide them with a calming space of their own.

Exercise and Nutrition

Moderation is key when it comes to exercise for Tibetan Mastiffs. Activities like walking, playing in the snow, tug-of-war, treat-releasing toys, and a short game of hide-and-seek are great options. Some enjoy swimming, but it’s not a universal favorite.

Due to their somewhat lazy disposition, Tibetan Mastiffs can become overweight if not given balanced meals and regular exercise. Careful attention to their diet is essential to keep them in optimal health.

Socialization

Proper and early socialization is crucial to ensure they interact well with other canines and humans. Tibetan Mastiffs tend to do better with dogs of the opposite sex.

Whether you’re a proud Tibetan Mastiff owner or simply a dog enthusiast looking to deepen your understanding of canines, there’s always room for growth and learning.

If you’re passionate about dogs and want to turn that passion into a rewarding career as a professional dog trainer, ISCDT’s comprehensive dog trainer program  is your path to success.