Are you looking for a large, fluffy, and loyal dog? Read this article to discover the top five reasons that Tibetan Mastiffs are the perfect guard dog.
Tibetan Mastiff History
It is not completely understood how the Tibetan Mastiff came into existence. However, there is some evidence that they were given to explorers as a present for visiting Tibet. Tibetan Mastiffs have also made an appearance in the Himalayas as guard dogs.
Tibetan Mastiffs have also made an appearance in the Himalayas as guard dogs.
©Oleksandr Hryvul/iStock via Getty Images
Lifespan
Tibetan Mastiffs can live for 12 to 15 years, which makes them a long-term commitment. In some cases, they can live longer than 15 years.
Personality
These large canines have the personality to boot. For one, they can be sweet and loving. On the other hand, these dogs can also be territorial, aggressive, and menacing. If you are considering adopting a Tibetan Mastiff and you are a first-time dog owner, it is not recommended. They require a strong hand and firm owner because of their independent nature. But, these canines can be fiercely loyal and smart and make great guard dogs if you are an experienced owner who wants to protect their home or farm.
Training
Training a Tibetan Mastiff is no easy feat. Tibetan Mastiffs are not a dog that can be trained as a puppy and then stopped once they are an adult. Due to their independent nature, Tibetan Mastiffs require training that is consistent during their entire lifespan. These self-sufficient pups will give you a run for your money if you are not able to control them.
If you have small children or live in a part of your city that does, you will need to begin socializing your canine at a very young age. Tibetan Mastiffs are known to bond so deeply with their owner that they do not accept other humans or dogs without perceiving them as a threat.
If you have small children or live in a part of your city that does, you will need to begin socializing your canine at a very young age.
©Svetography/Shutterstock.com
Exercise
In addition to training, your canine will require exercise daily. Mastiffs are generally athletic, strong, and energetic dogs that need stimulation.
Health Issues
Your Tibetan Mastiff may be strong, fierce, and loyal. Nevertheless, there are several health issues that they are prone to. Here are a few to look out for.
Infections
Tibetan Mastiffs are vulnerable to many of the common canine infections such as parvo. Thankfully there are vaccines to help prevent these.
Symptoms
- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
- Exhaustion.
- Shivering.
- Fever.
Treatment
- Oral antibiotics.
- If the infection is critical, your vet may keep your pup for a few days to monitor them.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia is a condition in which your pup’s thighbone doesn’t fit the hip socket properly. It rubs against the joint creating friction, and heat. This leads to arthritis in the hip area which can make it hard to exercise, and limit mobility.
Symptoms
- Limping after exercise.
- “Bunny-Hopping”. Bunny-Hopping is a movement in which your dog will hop around to avoid putting pressure on the sore joints.
- Refusal to get up, run, or move around as often.
Treatment
- Weight management.
- Prescription diet.
- Medication for pain, or swelling.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a serious health condition in which your mastiff does not produce enough hormones to regulate their thyroid.
Symptoms
- Fur loss.
- Losing weight without trying.
- Weakened muscles due to deterioration.
- Infected toenails.
- Infected ear drums.
Treatment
- Hormone replacement medication. Please note that there is no quick fix to hypothyroidism. Therefore, your dog will need to take this medication for the entirety of their life.
Osteochrondosis Dissecans(OCD)
This disease causes arthritis and achy joints due to the failure of proper cartilage growth.
Symptoms
- Avoid walking for prolonged periods.
- Unable to stand.
- Whimpering when walking.
- Refusing to play.
- Sudden aggression when the joints are touched.
- Nipping when the area of pain is touched.
Treatment
- Medication to help with pain and inflammation.
- Range of motion exercises as directed by a veterinarian.
Panosteitis
Panosteitis is a condition in which the legs are aching and inflamed. This condition is most commonly found in younger dogs. As they grow, the condition should dissolve by the time they reach 2 years old.
Symptoms
- Sudden limping.
- Random limping.
- Whimpering, and displaying signs of pain without excessive exercise or trauma.
Treatment
- Pain, and anti-inflammatory medication.
Panosteitis is a condition in which the legs are aching and inflamed.
©Olga Aniven/Shutterstock.com
Tibetan Mastiff Training
Tibetan mastiff training will need to be discussed with your veterinarian. These canines have a natural instinct to protect and attack. Thus, you may need to consider adopting a different dog breed, especially if you have young children or pets. Mastiffs may accidentally mistake children playing or loud barking from other dogs as a threat.
5 Reasons Tibetan Mastiffs Are the Perfect Guard Dog
1. They’re Independent
If you’re looking for a dog who is protective and doesn’t need a lot of paw-holding, Tibetan Mastiffs are the perfect guard dog for you. They can comfortably be left alone for 8 hours. However, anything longer than that may cause separation anxiety.
2. Tibetan Mastiffs Are Fiercely Loyal
These massive dogs are highly watchful over their family. If you give them love and adequate care these dogs will take a bullet for the family.
3. These Massive Dogs Enjoy Being Busy
Most guard dogs like to stay busy. Yet, when it comes to Tibetan Mastiffs they keep physical activity on their daily to-do list. Keeping your dog busy will help teach them to guard your home while also keeping their minds, and body healthy.
4. Great Alarm Systems
Do you live in an area that is shady at night? A Tibetan mastiff will keep your home safe, and scare away intruders with their loud, and piercing bark. Plus, seeing a massive dog charging at you in the night is enough to send anyone running for the hills!
5. They Can Connect With You on Levels Most Breeds Cannot
If you’re looking for a breed that can uniquely connect to you, a Tibetan Mastiff may be your ideal dog. They connect with you on a level that other breeds cannot fathom. For instance, they will bond to you based on your personality and energy which allows them to create a diverse connection with you.
If you’re looking for a breed that can uniquely connect to you, a Tibetan Mastiff may be your ideal dog.
©Kat_marinina/Shutterstock.com
Summary of the Top 5 reasons Tibetan Mastiffs Are the Perfect Guard Dog
In conclusion, Tibetan mastiffs are the perfect guard dog because of their fierce loyalty, loud bark, and their ability to connect with you on a deeper level.
| Reason | Explanation |
| Independant | These pups love to do their own thing. On a side note, they may also be a challenge to train because they will not always want to do what you ask them. |
| Loyal | They will stop at nothing to protect you. This also means that you need to watch them around guests, children, and other dogs. |
| Loves to work | Mastifffs love to keep themselves busy. They love to have something to do every minute of the day. |
| Loud Bark | Their loud bark makes for a great alarm system. Intruders do not stand a chance. |
| They seek connection | This breed of canine goes out of their way to create a diverse connection with its owner. |
The photo featured at the top of this post is © Tatyana Kuznetsova/Shutterstock.com
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