Also known as the Tsang Apso, the Tibetan Terrier is an affectionate and gentle breed. But how do you know whether you are ready to purchase a pet and if this breed is right for you? This information is absolutely necessary in making the decision to purchase a pet.
History
The origin of the Tibetan Terrier can be traced nearly 2,000 years, when the breed raised and nurtured in the monasteries by the Lamas. Throughout its history, the Tibetan Terrier has been most commonly used as a companion dog, often referred to as a “luck bringer”, possibly due to its sweet personality and charm.
The Tibetan Terrier made its United States debut in 1956, and was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1973.
Today, while the Tibetan Terrier has attained an underground popularity as an amazing companion dog, the breed remains rather rare outside of Tibet.
Personality Traits
Best known for its sweet and sensitive nature, the Tibetan Terrier thrives on strong and dependable human relationships. This breed is energetic and surprisingly strong, enjoying time outdoors and playing games such as fetch. As a pet, the Tibetan Terrier is loyal, loving, obedient, and affectionate.
Train-ability
Due to its eagerness to please its owner and need for human relationships, the Tibetan Terrier generally responds well to basic training and commands. These dogs are quite bright and have the ability to learn to perform most any task their trainer is willing to take the time to teach.
Establishing immediate trust is key to successfully training the Tibetan Terrier. This breed can be rather sensitive to criticism and responds best to a gentle and patient approach and positive reinforcement.
Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed
There are many benefits to owning a Tibetan Terrier. These active dogs are quite entertaining to watch while at play. This breed is very intelligent, easily trainable, and can be taught to perform many impressive tricks and tasks. When properly socialized from a young age, the Tibetan Terrier gets along well with children and other pets, often making friends quickly. These dogs are obedient, loyal, loving, and affectionate, making excellent family pets and companions alike.
Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to owning a Tibetan Terrier. This energetic breed requires large amounts of daily exercise and room to run and play. Anyone wishing to purchase this breed lacking the adequate amount of time and space to dedicate to the dog is strongly advised against doing so. A Tibetan Terrier not receiving the proper amount of exercise and space will often act out by destroying property, chewing, barking, whining, and ignoring basic training such as housebreaking.
Like many companion breeds, the Tibetan Terrier is known to suffer from separation anxiety. Individuals seeking to purchase this breed who travel frequently, have full time work, or are away from the home on a daily basis are advised to begin researching another breed. During an attack of separation anxiety, the Tibetan Terrier acts out of nervous destruction and may destroy property, chew, bark, whine, and ignore housebreaking training.
The Tibetan Terrier’s full and impressive coat requires almost constant attention, brushing, and grooming to maintain its attractive appearance.
As previously mentioned, the Tibetan Terrier remains rather rare outside of its native Tibet and can prove difficult to obtain. Individuals wishing to purchase this breed often encounter such challenges as inability to locate a breeder, extremely high prices, and being placed on long waiting lists.
Common Health Concerns
While the Tibetan Terrier is typically known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems, including: hip dysplasia, patellar luxation – dislocation of the knee, progressive retinal atrophy, lens luxation – dislocation of the lens, and cataracts.
Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own a Tibetan Terrier? Remember, purchasing a pet is a big decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with your entire family.
Sources:
http://www.akc.org/breeds/tibetan_terrier
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/tibetan_terrier
