Tibetan Terrier

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This is an ancient breed that has contributed to the development of all other Tibetan breeds, including the Shih-Tzu, Lhasa Apso, and the Tibetan Spaniel. The Tibetan Terrier is not actually a terrier at all.

They were originally kept by Tibetan Monks almost 2,000 years ago and were considered good luck charms. The monks refused to sell them, but often gave them as gifts. In the 1920s, Dr. A.R.H. Greig of England was working for Womens Medical Service of India and was given two of these dogs, one by a patient for performing a successful operation and the other by the Dalai Lama himself. Dr. Greig bred the two dogs and brought three of them back home with her where she continued to breed them, establishing a Tibetan Terrier kennel in England.

The dogs were originally registered as Lhasa Terriers. The Tibetan Terrier is a medium-sized, squarely proportioned dog. The head is medium in size with a moderate stop. The nose is black. The teeth meet in a scissors, reverse scissors or level bite.

A reverse scissors bite is where the inner surface of the lower teeth touches the outer surface of the upper teeth. The dark brown eyes are large and wide-set. The V-shaped ears are pendant, hanging beside the head. The topline is level and the chest has a brisket that extends down to the top of the elbows.

The tail is well-feathered, curling up over the back. The back legs are slightly longer than the front legs. Dewclaws are sometimes removed. The double coat has a soft, woolly undercoat with a long, straight to wavy, fine, profuse outer coat. The coat comes in all colors and patterns.

Temperament: Affectionate, Energetic, Amiable, Gentle, Reserved, Sensitive

Health Problems: This breed can be very flea sensitive. Also prone to progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and hip dysplasia.