Breed characteristics carousel
Learn More
Need to Know
- Dog suitable for owners with some experience
- Extra training required
- Generally healthy breed
- Enjoys vigorous walks
- Small dog
- Some drool
- Requires frequent grooming
- Chatty and vocal dog
- Barks and alerts to visitors/anything unusual
- Could have issues with unknown dogs but gets along with known dogs
- Gets along with other pets with training
- May need additional supervision to live with children
- Can happily live in the city
- Can be left alone occasionally with training
- AKC Registered Breed
Personality
While called a terrier, the Tibetan Terrier is not a terrier and is only named as such based on their size. They don’t have any terrier qualities, but instead are charming and loyal companion dogs driven by owner interaction, not work. Eager to please yet sensitive, they are generally good-natured and affectionate. They make good family companions for families willing to take them on adventures. Owners might often find them on the back of a couch or on a counter.
Originating from the Lamaist monasteries in Tibet nearly 2,000 years ago, Tibetan Terriers were bred as companion dogs, occasionally helping with farm chores. They were known as holy and lucky dogs, often gifted. In 1920, Dr. A. Grieg, a physician, was gifted one in return for performing medical treatment at a monastery, introducing the breed to a wider world. They came to America in the mid-20th century.
Independent, bold, smart, and vigilant, the Tibetan Terrier is a sweet dog that requires an owner who can socialize them well. They also have high grooming and training needs. To keep them from barking, Tibetan Terrier dogs should be mentally and physically stimulated. They do not like being alone, so owners who are home most of the day are ideal.
Spirited and game for an outing, the Tibetan Terrier loves games, enrichment, and anything to tire their busy minds and keep their little bodies physically active. Without proper stimulation, they can become vocal and stressed.
Small and compact, the Tibetan Terrier breed doesn’t need much space, just access to good walks and off-leash playtime.
Tibetan Terriers are a non-shedding breed, which might be good for those who suffer from allergies to dog hair (but not necessarily those who suffer from allergies due to saliva and dander). Their thick double coat is kept long and needs brushing frequently to avoid matting. Owners might choose to clip a Tibetan Terrier dog’s coat to make it more manageable, but frequent brushing should still be done.
Sharp students, the Tibetan Terrier dog enjoys working with their owners and learning new things. They thrive at obedience, agility, heelwork, and more. They can become very opinionated and can want to share that opinion—especially if left behind too often.
Sensitive souls, the Tibetan Terrier breed is best for older children or homes with no children. They enjoy being part of their family and will want to go on outings with you.
The cost of a Tibetan Terrier from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.
Learn more about feeding and caring for your Tibetan Terrier on Purina.
Did You Know?
- Very few Tibetan Terriers are left in Tibet, but those that remain can often be seen working sheep.