Tibetan Mastiff — size comparison

The Tibetan Mastiff is a large, strongly boned dog with a broad head and a heavily feathered tail carried over the back. A thick mane surrounds the neck and shoulders, especially in males. A coarse outer coat and dense undercoat protect its solid body.

Known in Tibet as the do khyi, it guarded pastoral camps and monasteries, often keeping watch at night in a harsh climate. European accounts produced many legends that exaggerated its size and strength. One well-documented arrival in Europe was a male given to Queen Victoria in 1847.

Independent and watchful, it is usually strongly attached to its family and territory. It may observe strangers for some time before approaching. Although often restful indoors, it remains alert to sounds outside. Its loyalty commonly shows through quiet proximity and close attention to what is happening around the household.

Measurement sources

• Wzorzec i historia
• Wielkość i waga
• Charakter i pielęgnacja
• AKC — długość życia, pielęgnacja i historia