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Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiff is a giant working breed from Tibet also known as Do-Khyi.

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Tibetan Mastiff

Breed overview

Tibetan Mastiff is a giant working breed from Tibet also known as Do-Khyi.

An ancient flock guardian from the Himalayan regions (Tibet, Nepal, etc.), often hailed as the progenitor of many modern mastiff breeds.

People looking into Tibetan Mastiff usually prepare for Moderate exercise needs, High grooming needs, 70–150 lbs • 24–26 in.

Do-Khyi

History and origin

Tibetan Mastiff is tied to originating from Tibet, specifically Tibetan plateau, with sources often placing its development around 1100 CE.

Tibetan Mastiff is described here as placed in the working group and marked as an established breed.

An ancient flock guardian from the Himalayan regions (Tibet, Nepal, etc.), often hailed as the progenitor of many modern mastiff breeds.

Browse dog breeds from Tibet Browse more working breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
working
Size
Giant
Origin country
Tibet
Region
Tibetan plateau
Origin year
1100 CE
Weight
70–150 lbs
Height
24–26 in
Lifespan
10–12 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
2 / 5
Trainability
2 / 5
Good with children
3 / 5
Shedding level
4 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
Moderate exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 3/5Trainability: 2/5

Coat and classification

Tibetan Mastiff is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

DoubleThickHeavy

Tibetan Mastiff is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Massive head with broad skull
  • Heavy bone structure and powerful build
  • Thick double coat with lion-like mane
  • Commonly black-and-tan, solid black, or golden

What this breed is known for

  • An ancient flock guardian from the Himalayan regions (Tibet, Nepal, etc.), often hailed as the progenitor of many modern mastiff breeds.
  • One of the most massive breeds, they have a thick double coat and a leonine mane around neck and shoulders, especially in males.
  • Tibetan Mastiffs are territorial, independent, and highly protective. At night, their instinct to patrol awakens (they were traditionally let loose at night to guard villages).

Health and care notes

Tibetan Mastiff is noted here for Moderate exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Eye Conditions

Coat details: Double, Thick, Heavy

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Tibetan Mastiff come from?

Tibetan Mastiff is closely associated with Tibet, especially Tibetan plateau in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Tibetan Mastiff get?

Typical size details for Tibetan Mastiff on this page are 70–150 lbs, 24–26 in, 10–12 years.

What is the Tibetan Mastiff known for?

An ancient flock guardian from the Himalayan regions (Tibet, Nepal, etc.), often hailed as the progenitor of many modern mastiff breeds.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Tibetan Mastiff reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.