Tibetan Malamute dog. Tibetan mastiff - standard, description and features of the breed
Few people were lucky enough to see her live. However, its name for cynologists sounds quite familiar, since all modern dogs of the molossoid type descend from it. Its roots go back to the depths of centuries.
The first specimens of the Tibetan mastiff that arrived in the West were already adults. They did not really know their new owners, and it is likely that they were not accustomed to people from a young age. Therefore, one should not be surprised that in those days when nothing was known about canine ethology or the psyche of dogs, these dogs were recognized as difficult in everyday life and in communication.
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When talking about the Tibetan Mastiff, it is important to remember that a lot of time has passed since the first, not too successful experiments. The breed today is fundamentally different from its ancestors and the image of a dog, huge, as tall as a donkey and furious like a tiger, has remained only the property of legends.
Description of the breed Tibetan Mastiff
The authentic Tibetan Mastiff is a tall but well-proportioned dog. This is a vigilant and attentive watchman, endowed with a balanced character. He has an affectionate disposition, as evidenced by the completely peaceful coexistence of dogs of the same sex. And although the Tibetan Mastiff has always performed, there is nothing ferocious about it. She is only determined to protect the owner and his property. If the dog is with the owner, in his presence any stranger can stroke - she will not get angry at all. The most she can do in this situation is to make a "goat face", showing that caresses do not arouse her enthusiasm. She has enough attention from the owner. If a puppy, as well as all puppies, is a real natural disaster, then an adult dog is rather restrained. The Tibetan mastiff is ready to accept caresses and signs of attention only when he wants it. Nevertheless, he wants to always be with the owner. He is ready to never part with him. He can lie at our feet for hours - silent and calm, so that we even forget about his presence, although his mass is by no means small.
Character
Indeed, the Tibetan Mastiff deserves more distribution, and not only because of its beauty, but because of its character. After all, being with the owner, this dog is always ready to turn into a great playmate. Of course, you should not expect the mobility of a border collie from her. However, the Tibetan, especially at a young age, loves to run, jump, and even swim. On the other hand, he may well turn into an annex to furniture when he knows that no one should be disturbed. He is extremely affectionate with children. Walking on a leash, he adapts to their stride and actually lets them do whatever they want with him. Therefore, parents need to monitor the children rather than the dog. Especially when the dogs are still small and fragile.
Puppy education
Like all dogs, the Tibetan Mastiff can become stubborn and stubborn. However, the reason for this will be the mistakes made by man. For example, if a person does not engage in imprinting with a puppy, he will not accustom him to life in society. Imprinting is a set of techniques that teach a dog to trust a person, convincing him that he and we belong to the same species. To do this, you need to stroke the puppy in the period from the 3rd to the 7th week of life, caress and play with him. If at the same time we are not “chewed” much, or we have to look helplessly at the “great” battle with shoelaces, then everything is in order. The puppy wants to communicate with us and uses its mouth for this - its main means of expressing emotions. A puppy that has not undergone imprinting will not chew either shoelaces or socks, because it will experience fear of a person and it is quite obvious that he will never be able not to cooperate with a person, not to become an indispensable companion in his life.
After imprinting during the period of socialization, a puppy living in the family circle is taught to interact with the outside world. This is a very important time in his life and extremely delicate. From the 7th week until the 17th week, the puppy is taken out for a walk to explore the world. The owner and, if possible, other adult dogs come out with him. In this way, he learns to get along with strangers, with cars, with other animals, and so on. If the walks were long and tiring, then on the way back the puppy may need a cart. But most importantly, the dog must come into contact with the reality surrounding it and its various components. This will temper her character and nervous system.
Care and maintenance
They grow very quickly and quickly become and quickly become impressive, so most of the puppies' energy is spent on growth, and not too much of it remains for games. This is why little Tibetan mastiffs sleep a lot, and sometimes even fall into a lethargic sleep. And it seems that no power can wake them up. But this is completely normal, do not disturb the puppies and do not force them to move. Physical exercise is good when it comes from the heart.
If our little Tibetan is having fun trying to climb the stairs, let him try. However, you can not force him to do this exercise several times a day. An adult dog will not have these problems. But puppies love not only to relax, they have another passion - food. An adult dog is by no means gluttonous. She eats much less than a Boxer or a Labrador.
The puppy should receive good nutrition, divided into many small portions. For an adult dog, it is enough to eat 2 times a day. For a meal, she eats 200-300 grams of dog food.
It is very important that in hot weather the dog has the opportunity to retire into the shade. Fresh water should always be available to her.
Despite the size and rather long coat, it is easy to keep the breed. It does not require complex care. It is enough to comb the dog 2-3 times a week. Show dogs require more care. They need to be washed more often, then dried in such a way that the hair on certain parts of the body stands on end and looks thicker. So the look of the dog becomes more impressive. Paws, mane and tail are dried with a hair dryer and air directed against the coat. In order to present the dog's constitution in a favorable light, it is necessary to raise the hair on the paws with the help of a fine-toothed slicker. The result can be fixed with hairspray. Now we get what the breed standard should look like, requiring the dog to look impressive. It should feel the power and strong bones. And the dog should look solemn and pleasant.
breed standard
The head is rather broad, heavy and strong with a massive skull. Stop is pronounced. The optimum ratio of skull to muzzle is one to one, but a shorter muzzle is acceptable. The muzzle is fairly broad, well filled and square whether we are looking straight ahead or looking at the dog in profile. The nose is broad, well pigmented with large nostrils.
The eyes are medium in size, very expressive, set far apart and looking askance. The color is chestnut and the whole gamut of its shades. The shape is oval. The ears are medium in size, triangular and drooping, set low, close to the head and raised when the dog listens. Scissor bite. A pincer bite is also allowed. The neck is strong, muscular with a slight bend, covered with a dense mane. The body is powerful, muscular, slightly longer than the height at the withers. The back is straight. The sacrum is barely visible. The forelimbs show obliquely placed shoulder blades. The limbs have strong bones. When viewed from the front, the set of the limbs is parallel and straight. The hindquarters are powerful and muscular with a pronounced angulation with powerful well-defined hocks. When viewed from behind, the limbs are parallel. Single or double spurs can be removed. The feet are rather large, strong and compact, cat-like, with hair between the toes. The tail is set high at the level of the back line. The tail is of medium length, curved and covered with thick hair.
Color options: black, black fiery, chestnut, golden in various shades, gray in various shades, gray with golden tan. Fiery or golden spots appear above the eyes, on the inside of the limbs, both hind and fore, and also on the tip of the tail.
The minimum height is 66 cm for males and 61 cm for females. The standard of the Tibetan Mastiff is not described in great detail. The flexibility of character in combination with different approaches to breeding make these dogs not similar to one another, which is why within the breed there is heterogeneity of individuals, so we see Tibetan mastiffs very different from each other in color and height and in shape and of course in type. Some fans of the breed believe that this diversity is its main attraction.
Each dog is unique in its kind, inimitable and absolutely recognizable, even surrounded by a large pack of its relatives. In fact, it would certainly be desirable for breeders to work towards a more homogeneous type, to select the most desirable characters. Such work takes time, because the dog is not yet very well known, and also because females, like wolves, whelp only once a year.
This natural limitation of breed reproduction can be frustrating for those who want to produce a puppy. But it is compensated by firm guarantees of its quality. A breeder who is solely concerned with matters of profit is unlikely to get involved with this breed. Tibetan mastiffs are raised only by true amateurs and the dog does not risk turning into a fashionable dog.
Estrus only once a year is extremely rare among the dog tribe. Among the Tibetans, it is explained by the fact that a person has never interfered in the development of the Tibetan mastiff, because estrus 2 times a year is a consequence of the domestication of the dog and the selection work of man. The primitive state of the Tibetan is the key to his health and long life.
For the Tibetan Mastiff, a lifespan of 12 years or more is common. This lifespan is the envy of most large breed dogs.
Health and disease
Tibetan mastiffs are distinguished by enviable health. Adult dogs practically do not get sick. It is necessary to constantly monitor only the eyes so that there is no inversion of the eyelids when the lower eyelid is wrapped inward. The problem is solved quite easily, with a small surgical intervention. As for diseases common among large dogs, such as, for example, they are quite rare in Tibetan mastiffs. However, this does not mean that there is no risk. The dog is too big to avoid him. Therefore, we recommend taking a puppy from completely healthy parents, and also, just in case, x-ray the dog once a year.
What dog will be ideal for you? Do you prefer a show dog? High jump champion or amazing diver? Ask whoever you want - the choice is not limited. The Tibetan Mastiff can be everything and more. And only with ferocious dogs there are great difficulties. But their character does not differ in ferocity, and if the mastiff makes a ferocious look, then only in order to play a trick on you.
Otherwise, they are ready to play any role: from an exemplary farm dog to a 2-headed monster. Well, jokes aside - this is really a real aristocratic dog with a thousand-year history. Her name is surrounded by myths and legends. But for someone who has earned her friendship, she is a wonderful friend - affectionate, with a speaking look. Sometimes it even seems that calling her a dog is somehow rude.
Photo of the Tibetan Mastiff breed
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Despite the impressive appearance, formidable grin, frightening barking, the Tibetan mastiff is able to assess the situation and will not show aggression in vain, and treats the owner and members of his family with all love.
Attitude to the owner and other family members
The character of the Tibetan mastiff is complex, the dog has tenderness, love and stubbornness, self-confidence, the desire to protect and a number of other features.
Quite independent animals still need to communicate with their master, they love affection. Representatives of the breed have the ability to feel the mood of the owner.
Understanding by nature, Tibetan mastiffs treat children well, patiently enduring their antics, with a degree of caution, realizing that children are defenseless and weak creatures that need to be treated condescendingly. However, leaving the Tibetan Mastiff alone with the children, especially if there are not your own (for example, neighbors) among them, should not be. Children tend to play loudly, run, fight, sometimes cry over trifles, to which the dog can immediately react and stand up for the owner's children, thinking that the child is in danger or harmed. If children are too intrusive, provoke an animal, tease, then children risk being bitten. Therefore, it should be remembered that although the dog is affectionate with children, it is still not suitable for the role of a nanny. Children should be explained that the dog must be treated with respect, keep a distance, without interfering once again in the pet's space. The animal can intervene if it sees that the spouses are arguing, there are loud discussions between adults.
At a young age, the animals are active, like to run and willingly play with the owner, but with age they become less mobile, more serious, showing the qualities of a guard more clearly. Sedentary, devoid of active walks and physical activity, excessive attention of the owner, Tibetan mastiffs adapt to this lifestyle and can spend time lying at the feet of the owner.
Attitude towards strangers
The breed was originally bred as a guard dog. The Tibetan Mastiff has retained its protective qualities to this day and is considered one of the most reliable guard dogs.
The character traits of the Tibetan Mastiff include poise and restraint. Thanks to these qualities, the dog is distrustful of strangers, if the owner normally communicates with strangers, friends, does not show aggression, although he does not take his eyes off them until they leave his territory.
If the owner is in danger, the courageous Tibetan mastiff will fearlessly rush to his defense, having assessed the situation before that. Representatives of the breed are smart enough, and with the right upbringing, they are able to distinguish between good and bad people. Protecting their loved ones, the animal is able to independently make decisions and assess the degree of threat. Thanks to this character trait, the Tibetan Mastiff will not show aggression if there is no reason for it, and will not cause false alarms. Although living on the street, for example, in the courtyard of a country house, it will responsibly guard its territory all night, warning the owner of the approach of strangers with a loud bark, which can sometimes annoy neighbors.
When provoked, the Tibetan Mastiff turns into a formidable beast with ruffled hair, a frightening grin, furious eyes, who will not back down from anything to protect himself, his territory and his family. Therefore, when deciding to buy a dog of this breed, one should be aware that an improperly educated pet can do serious things in the future, for which the owner will then have to answer.
To a greater extent, the dog seeks to protect than to please, which should be considered if the animal lives in an apartment or in a house, and not on the street. Therefore, you need to walk on a leash, in a muzzle, it is important to be able to pacify the dog and control it so that manifestations of aggression do not lead to tragedy. Even if a dog is trained, one cannot be completely sure of its restrained behavior when walking outside among other people and dogs, because it is impossible to predict situations that can provoke a dog.
Relationship with other animals
Other animals are tolerated if the animals grew up together, but strangers, such as cats, can be treated aggressively. Able to get along well with other dogs, but it is not uncommon for individuals of the same sex to show aggression towards each other in the struggle for dominance. Therefore, if you plan to have two dogs so that they live in harmony with each other, it is better to choose individuals of the opposite sex.
Obedience
In general, the Tibetan mastiff is obedient and will unconditionally execute the command of the owner, however, this requires a lot of time and patience, and most importantly, consistency and firmness in training. It is important to conduct training in the form of games, without forcing anything. Otherwise, the independent Tibetan Mastiff will be stubborn. Training should begin as early as possible, because with age the dogs will make attempts to show leadership, the owner must, having earned the respect and trust of the dog, be able to stop such attempts. Sharp and rude treatment will never cause respect and trust in a dog. The animal has a strong sense of self-worth, it does not feel like a pet and perceives people as equals.
The early socialization of a pet is important, which should not stop throughout its life (especially in the first two years of life), which will help to raise an obedient, adequate dog that does not show thoughtless aggression towards people who have set foot on the territory of the animal and the owner.
The animal is characterized by destructive behavior from boredom, restlessness and anxiety. In such a mood, the dog can gnaw on objects, dig holes.
Tibetan mastiff (this breed also has other names: “shepherd's Tibetan mastiff dro-khi”, Tibetan moloss, Tibetan dog, Tibetan shepherd dog and many others) is a breed of large and large dogs. This is a guard, and a watchman, and a companion.
A bit of history
The Tibetan mastiff breed is, according to cynologists, the oldest breed of dog. Ancient descriptions of this dog, which have survived to this day, say that these dogs guarded Tibetan monasteries from ill-wishers. Ancestors of this dog used as a workhorse. Also, ancient Tibetan mastiffs in the Himalayas protected nomadic pastoralists from predators, helping them overcome difficult roads.
Tibetan Shepherd Dogs, according to the description, in the difficult ancient years were able to protect even entire villages from attacks. Their inhabitants highly appreciated the brilliant guard qualities in these unique animals.
Each village in the past had its own variety of the Tibetan Shepherd and, of course, each settlement had its own stories and legends associated with this animal. On the one hand, this is interesting, but on the other hand, it is now becoming quite difficult to understand what is true and what is fiction.
Current Tibetan Mastiffs also differ in a specific appearance, which depends on the climate of habitat and the region. But in any case, myths have survived about these dogs, since these stories bear little resemblance to the truth. However, even from them it is easy to understand that the dogs did their job well, and people were afraid of them and considered them wild.
Several of the individuals of this breed were brought to Europe during the time of Attila. There is a version that the offspring of these dogs gave birth to Molossian dogs:
- mastiff,
- st bernard,
- boxer.
Tibetan mastiff: characteristics of the breed
The first Tibetan mastiffs, descriptions of the breed of which we will now touch, which were brought to London, were immediately sent to the zoo. But there they, unable to acclimatize, died. Survivors received the characteristic "wild dogs".
The color of the Tibetan mastiff is:
All colors should be as pure as possible.
Tolerances
- The color of the tan can be from a rich chestnut shade to a light one.
- A white patch is allowed on the chest. There may be a small amount of white on the paws.
- Above the eyes, on the paws (lower part), the underside of the tail, let's say tan.
- Points of tan around the eyes are allowed on the muzzle.
The nature of the Tibetan Mastiff
Despite their size and terrifying ability to tear apart any enemy in their path, the characteristics of this breed indicate that they are rather calm, perfectly balanced, good-natured and even affectionate dogs.
The Tibetan Mastiff is usually:
- self-assured,
- independent
- independent.
The mere description of his appearance inspires respect and admiration. This beast is alien to cowardice, nervousness or unreasonable aggression, which are inherent in the breeds of small dogs. The Mastiff is usually completely self-sufficient and therefore never barks at trifles.
Capabilities
Dogs of this breed have excellent guard and security qualities. These dogs are hardy and strong, always perfectly feel their territory. . Mastiffs always warn the owner that someone else came with a deafening bark, but they will not give a voice over trifles.
The Tibetan Mastiff is always obedient to the owner and without his special command will never attack first. When the owner is nearby, he calmly treats strangers, does not show aggression, but at the same time does not let the stranger out of sight until he leaves his territory.
The shepherd treats the master's children well, gets along well with all the household members of the family in which he lives. But in no case should we forget that this dog has a huge size and is not a rational being. Therefore, you should never leave small children alone with her. . The Tibetan Mastiff should not be taken as a babysitter.
The Tibetan Mastiff is good with other pets, including dogs of its own sex.
Training and relationship with the owner
The dog is stubborn and wayward, it is not easy to train, therefore it will not be so easy for a novice dog breeder to subdue this animal to himself.
Tibetan mastiff dogs need a fair owner who has a loving heart and a strong character. These dogs need
- discipline,
- severity,
- caress.
But under this, by no means, not cruelty. Do not, under any circumstances, use physical force on this animal, as this can make the dog angry and cowardly. You need to learn how to find a common language with your furry friend, and then you will get the best pet in the world.
Dog loves spending time with his owners, can lie at their feet for hours, snoring peacefully.
Adult Tibetan Mastiffs tend to be silent and calm. Puppies of this breed, in turn, on the contrary, are full of strength and energy. They are able to demolish any obstacles that stand in their way. Therefore, puppies always need as early as possible socialization and, of course, correct and adequate education.
If you do not have enough free time and experience to train your pet, then, in order to avoid many and major problems in the future, you should definitely seek help from dog handlers. Experienced trainers they will quickly teach your furry friend all the necessary commands, correct behavior among people, and you will be given guarantees of results and valuable recommendations for raising your domestic giant.
However, the breed of these dogs was created specifically for life on the street. The dog feels most comfortable in a dry and cool climate. The corral or yard where such a dog will walk must be fenced off.
The Tibetan Mastiff loves to roll in snowdrifts or lie with his tongue out in the shade in hot weather. It also sometimes seems that strong winds , snowfalls or blizzards bring he has only pleasure.
Keeping a Tibetan Mastiff in an Aviary
If you live outside the city and are going to keep a mastiff on the street, then you need to rebuild an aviary for walking and a place for a booth. For one individual, the size of the enclosure it should be:
- width from 2x3 meters
- 2 meters high.
The aviary is conditionally usually divided into 3 parts:
- in the first third of the part there should be a booth with a dog bed,
- the remaining two aunts of the enclosure should be covered with grass, turf or sand.
In no case should you fill a place for resting a shepherd dog with concrete
Keeping a Tibetan Shepherd Dog in an aviary without a booth
Even if you have arranged for your pet to be kept in an aviary, this does not mean that you can not walk with your guard shepherd dog. Walking is a must, and at least once a day. Always, at the same time, you should keep the dog on a leash, put a muzzle on the jaw: this will allow you to get rid of the unpleasant and reprehensible looks of oncoming people.
Train a Tibetan Shepherd puppy to a leash is necessary as early as possible, no later than from the age of two months. Measured and long walks will always help maintain the dog's muscles in the required tone.
Tibetan Shepherd Care
Caring for a Tibetan Shepherd requires a lot of effort from the owner, although in itself it does not present any particular difficulty. The fact is that this is a breed of large dogs, which is characterized by thick and long hair. This one job able to absorb the attention of the owner for 40 minutes. However, a breeder who loves his dog always takes care of his pet with great pleasure, and needlewomen hostesses will always find a use for wool combed out of a shepherd dog and knit various valuable things from it that you simply cannot buy on the market:
- mittens,
- socks,
- scarves,
- vests.
All these items of clothing made of dog hair are known to be not only very warm, but also healing.
The coat of the Tibetan Mastiff is not just thick, it also has a dense undercoat. Characteristic odor He does not have a “dog”, but periodically sheds. Abundant molting begins at the seasonal time - in spring and autumn.
Wool is pleasant to the touch, in its structure it can resemble fluff or mohair. This composition of wool successfully prevents the mass occurrence of tangles. It would not be an exaggeration to say that it has self-cleaning properties. Sometimes it is enough for a shepherd dog to simply brush itself off, its appearance instantly takes on a clean look.
Combing a Tibetan Mastiff should be at least 2 times a week, for this it is necessary to use a metal brush moistened with water or a well-diluted conditioner.
On the folds of the neck, on the ears and armpits, in the groin and on the hind legs of a shepherd dog, the hair sometimes falls off, which causes discomfort to the dog. You should make sure that they do not appear. Wool in these places must be especially carefully combed.
During shedding, the pet's coat will need to be combed daily in order to remove dead hair and give the dog a neat appearance. To make it easier for yourself, you can use a furminator or a slicker.
You should not cut the hair of the Tibetan Shepherd Dog with a machine, as this can lead to a violation of the structure of the hairline and thermoregulation. If this recommendation is neglected, then the pet may be at risk of pneumonia and can cause pneumonia in a dog.
the washing up
Bathing a Tibetan Shepherd the process is quite laborious, because the dog itself is huge and has such a thick coat that dries out for a very long time.
Bathe the Tibetan Shepherd Dog should be as rare as possible, once a quarter or as it gets dirty. This precaution will preserve the natural grease of his coat, which actively protects the dog's skin and coat from getting wet and allows it to self-clean. After any washing, even with specialized detergents, the restoration of natural lubrication can take place within a few days, so too frequent bathing leads to what appears to be hyperfunctioning of the skin glands. And this, in turn, just increases the level of dog smell.
In winter, it is enough for a Mastiff to lie well on clean snow so that his beautiful coat cleans itself. Wash this giant best in the summer months as it takes a very long time to dry.
Another good way to clean the coat of a Tibetan Shepherd Dog is to use dry shampoo. This product must be rubbed into the coat, after which it is thoroughly combed out.
Other care
Claws need to be cut once every 30-40 days with a special nail cutter for large breeds. To make them softer and more pliable, you need to dip the mastiff's paws in warm water for a few minutes. Sharp ends can be smoothed with a file to prevent burrs.
The oral cavity needs to constantly: healthy teeth should be white without any plaque, gums should be a pleasant pink color.
2 - 3 times 7-10 days the dog needs to brush his teeth with a special brush and toothpaste for dogs. To slow down the formation of plaque, the shepherd dog is given solid food or special toy items, for example, ropes that are treated with a special tartar remover.
Feeding
Feeding a Tibetan Mastiff dog from a month to a year
Since the weight of this giant can reach 90 kg, attention should be paid to his food. It should be composed like this so that the formation of its skeleton proceeds normally. A month old puppy should definitely get a full range of all vitamins and minerals.
The diet of a Tibetan Shepherd Dog under the age of 2 months should include:
- meat (everything except pork and lamb, including poultry),
- cottage cheese and kefir (milk is not allowed, only fermented milk derivatives are allowed);
- cereals (rice, buckwheat);
- egg;
- vegetables (greens, bell peppers, cabbage, carrots).
Also in the list of products you need to include various useful ones.
Number of meals - 5 times in 24 hours.
- From 2 months you need to add sea fish and switch to 4 meals a day.
- From 4 months - transition to 3 times a day,
- From 8 months 2 times a day.
Feeding a Tibetan Shepherd puppy dry food
In order not to cook food of the required level for a small mastiff for hours, you can use dry food for feeding. Their choice is quite wide., there are options and economy class, and much higher.
Benefits of dry food for the Tibetan Mastiff:
The disadvantages of dry food are mostly related to the cheap options. They often contain elements that are dangerous to the health of the puppy, low-quality components, traditionally veiled with the label "by-products" and flavor enhancers that have a destructive effect on the taste and smell of dogs.
In view of all this, before choosing, what to feed a tibetan mastiff, it is necessary to maintain a balance between price and quality.
Before you get a four-legged friend, you need to decide on the breed. This is important, since each breed has its own characteristics. Like people, dogs can also differ in character, habits, preferences, and more. Let's talk about one of the largest and oldest breeds.
A complete description of the dog breed: the history of the appearance of the Tibetan Mastiff, description of the color, characteristics of the breed and its size (height, weight), owner reviews, price, standards, health features, kennels, owner reviews, character description, breeding features, conditions of detention, necessary care , diet and education, examples of nicknames, the cost of a puppy in Russia.
History: why it was bred
The history of the breed dates back to ancient times - the first mention of the Tibetan mastiff is found in the Chinese book of changes, Shu-king, 1122 BC. In addition, Aristotle himself wrote about these dogs! Marco Polo sang about this breed in notes about a trip to Asia. Of course, for such a huge period of time, the truth has long been mixed up with myths and legends, but one thing is known for certain: the breed comes from a wolf, which is typical for all mountain dogs of the Molossian group.
For the first time this breed of dog appeared in Tibet. Even in the writings of Herodotus, "Indian" dogs are mentioned. They are the progenitors from which the Tibetan Mastiff comes. Its origin, as a separate breed, is considered to be from the 7th century BC. These dogs were watchdogs in Tibetan monasteries, helpers of nomads in the Himalayas.
There are very interesting and fascinating legends about Tibetan mastiffs: in Tibet, they believe that the light spots of the “eyebrow” of the dog are another pair of eyes with which the dog looks straight into the soul and determines whether the person in front of him is good or bad. The peasants also believed that the Tibetan mastiff never sleeps: when one pair of eyes is closed, the other is awake.
The first Tibetan Mastiff came to Europe in 1847, it was brought by Lord Harding to Queen Victoria of England. Breeding these dogs began in Germany in 1979. Here is what the current representative of the breed and the dog of the past look like in the photo:
Then
Now
Species and types
Experts have identified 3 types of Tibetan mastiffs:
Description and breed standard with photo
colors
Colors that representatives of this breed can have:
- black,
- Brown,
- Red,
- golden,
- chestnut,
- black and tan,
- grey,
- gray and tan.,
- blue.
The standard allows the presence of white spots on the chest or legs.
The most common and classic color (the hallmark of the breed) is a combination of black and tan: black hair on the head and on the back with light yellow or brown paws, sometimes there is a light spot on the chest. The Chinese believe that this is proof of a brave heart. It is in dogs of this color that tanas are pronounced - “second eyes”: symmetrical light marks on the eyebrows.
Next in popularity: the so-called red shade, or rather, copper, red, from light fawn to copper-burgundy.
Blue color and blue and tan are very beautiful, although rare colors.
Photo blue color
Grey-blue
Brown Tibetan Mastiff
Is there white?
Pure white dogs are extremely rare. But due to the difficulty of breeding them, the white color is not accepted as the standard. The White Mastiff is the most expensive of the rare breeds, and can cost up to a million dollars.
Standard
- Tail- medium in length, set high on the line of the back, held high, twisted to one side, developed decorating hair.
- Head massive, wide, large cranium, the occiput is pronounced, as well as the transition to the muzzle from the forehead.
- Muzzle wide, has a blunt edge, when viewed from any angle. Wide nose with pronounced pigment, open nostrils,
- Bite scissor-shaped, straight also allowed, massive jaws, teeth close tightly.
- Eyes- are medium in size, oval in shape, set wide, brown in color, very expressive. According to the standard, the darker the shade of the eyes, the better.
- Ears- hanging, triangular in shape, lowered forward, of small size.
- Neck muscular and massive, dewlap small, dense hair around the neck.
- Frame massive, straight back, deep and fairly wide chest, slightly bulging ribs, egg-shaped chest, sternum depth below the elbow.
- limbs- Massive fore and hind legs. Oblique shoulders, front legs straight, strong bones. The pasterns have a slight slope. On the hind legs, the angles of the joints are well defined, when viewed from behind, the hind legs are parallel.
Dimensions
So, let's discuss the height and weight of an adult dog, to what size the average female and male grow. These are large dogs, their average height at the withers fluctuates around 65-80 cm, for females the minimum height is 61 cm, for males - from 66 cm. The average weight is within 60-85 kg (for males - 72-85, for bitch - 60-75 kg).
Weight by month
It should be noted that the maturation of Tibetan mastiffs is slower than that of representatives of other breeds. They reach maturity at 3-4 years.
Puppy photo 1 month old
Photo of a puppy at 2 months
Puppy photo 3 months old
Puppy photo 4 months old
A table with average weight data for different ages of the puppy, as well as how much an adult weighs:
Age, months | newborn | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 18 | 2 years | 3 years | 4 years |
Weight, kg | 0,4 — 0,6 | 5 | 11 | 15 | 17 | 24 | 28 | 31 | 35 | 41 | 43 | 46 | 53 | 57 | 60 |
Maximum height and weight
Individuals weighing 90 kg and height at the withers 80-85 cm can be found.
The largest and most expensive
The largest dog of this breed known in the world is a dog named Big Splash from China. The dimensions and weight of this largest dog on the planet - weight 113 kg (and at 11 months old he already weighed 80 kg.!), Has a red color. He is also the most expensive dog in the world, was acquired by a Chinese billionaire for one and a half million dollars.
Photo of the largest dog in the world
According to a close source, Splash is fed with chicken or beef, and as a dessert he is treated to seafood. But such care pays off very quickly, since you need to pay more than $ 15,000 for mating with the most expensive male of this breed, and there are plenty of people who want to get offspring from him.
Barking
These dogs have a unique voice, their barking is very different from the barking of other dogs. It is a low bass with a metallic ringing. It sounds especially impressive in the mountains, where it resounds with a booming echo. It should be noted that they speak quite rarely, due to their balanced temperament and Tibetan calmness.
Wool. Is it smooth haired?
The coat is straight, thick and harsh, not very long outer coat, dense undercoat, which is thicker in the cold season, and thins a little in warm weather. Males have more hair than females. Around the head, a thick layer of wool forms a kind of mane.
Smooth-haired Tibetan
Almost bald shorn dog
Mastiffs can also be smooth-haired, they differ from the classic representatives of the breed only in the length of the coat.
Lifespan: How many years do they live?
The average life expectancy is 12-14 years, under good living conditions the dog can live more than 16 years.
Peculiarities
In general, these dogs have fairly good health, although there are some features of the breed:
- Due to their large size and heavy weight, they may be prone to hip disease - dysplasia.
- There is also a tendency to thyroid disease. These diseases can be inherited.
- There is a danger of genetic problems, which can appear at the age of 7-10 months and lead to the death of the puppy. In nurseries, when choosing a pair, they strictly monitor the compatibility of pairs.
- There may also be health problems, such as with skeletal system which are typical for large dogs. This may be inflammation of the pericartilaginous tissue, rickets, hypertrophy or dystrophy of bones in puppies. A proper diet that contains enough calcium and other substances necessary for the development of the puppy will help to avoid the development of these diseases. It also requires daily exercise.
- There is still a risk skin diseases. These dogs have a very thick coat, and skin problems can occur due to heat, or if the coat has not been dried well after bathing, or due to malnutrition.
- To avoid the risk of infections and viruses, it is necessary to get vaccinated on time.
Where to buy: the most famous nurseries
- In Moscow:
http://tmnnov.ru/
http://tibetandog.ru/ - In St. Petersburg:
http://mygoldenlion.com/
http://www.tibetdog.ru/ - In Kazan:
http://www.russiandog.ru/ - In Kiev:
http://www.tibet-mastif.com.ua/
http://www.asantiko.com.ua
The price of a puppy in rubles: how much does a dog cost in Russia?
The average price of a grown puppy of an exhibition class in kennels in Russia is from 90,000 to 160,000 rubles. The breed is rare, therefore expensive.
Adult Tibetan mastiffs from the pet category cost about 40-50 thousand rubles or a little more.
For example, the average cost of purebred "extra-class" puppies sold in China is about 25-35 thousand dollars, and sometimes even more. In China, the presence of a dog of this breed is an indicator of the high status and wealth of the owner.
Owner reviews
Real positive and negative feedback from the owners of these dogs will help you decide whether to get such a pet.
I can tell they are adorable! Such a lion runs around our yard, you can’t call it otherwise. I would like to highlight my relationship with children. If I let the children go for a walk in the yard, then I don’t even worry about them, since our Baron will not allow them to leave the gate or play pranks. He is very helpful with children and loves to play with them. I love to look at him when he puffs his cheeks not quite, it makes me tender. Of course, you need to tinker with the coat, but thanks to the qualities of the character of this dog, I do such procedures with pleasure.
For about three years we have been choosing the breed of dog that we will get to protect our house, which is still under construction. It is a pity that nurseries are located only in the center of Russia, and we are more alive in Siberia. But it didn't become a problem for us. The dog is very intelligent, stubborn, and calm in nature. Of course, I will especially emphasize in the review that it is not suitable for keeping in an apartment, but thanks to this, we completed our house much faster. Masyanya has become a teacher for our children, she is very patient with them, but does not let them go too far and puts them in their place in time. I think that this is the most suitable option for those who want to protect their home and family, of course, if they can afford not cheap keeping of such a dog.
Our clumsy Barik immediately made friends with the cat, who was not very happy about the appearance of a puppy in the house. But after a while they became best friends. The dog will also never offend the neighbor's cats, which sometimes drop into our yard. And with children, he is generally gold, a real helper. I recommend this breed to everyone.
But our mastiff is two years old. And I can say that the dog is very difficult. In China, this breed has its own name. There is a dog, and there is a Tibetan mastiff. Our pet is constantly testing us, everything wants to prove that he is the boss in the house. He is a miracle! We love him very much! But he is so smart and cunning that sometimes it becomes scary!
Before you buy such a dog, think! They write, they are wary of strangers, they are adequate in your presence. Nonsense, don't believe it! at 4 months he bit a builder on the territory, he will tear anyone, I'm not joking - TEAR. If we talk about a dog for the family, then this is not the right breed, if about the protection of the object - of course yes.
Characteristic
A detailed description of the breed, pros and cons, dogs on the most important points - evil or kind, how Tibetans communicate with children, a description of the nature of the breed:
Character
- The Tibetan Mastiff is a very intelligent dog. This is due to the fact that in Tibet it was customary to leave them in the house for the main one: children and cattle were left on them, and the mastiff himself kept order. This dog knows how to make decisions.
- The character is balanced, calm, friendly, but at the same time stubborn and strong-willed. These dogs have a sense of dignity and independence, require to be treated as an equal, and may not always obey.
- Excellent defenders, very loyal, patient and understanding. They are suspicious of strangers, jealously guard their territory - its special quality is that the Tibetan mastiff understands perfectly well what the boundaries of his territory are. Thanks to his barking (bass with a metallic sheen), ill-wishers do not even want to approach your house!
- How does it relate to children? Not aggressive, friendly to children, can be excellent nannies, get along well with cats and other dogs (provided that other dogs do not show aggression). Yu. N. Roerich describes the breed in an interesting way, focusing on the character of the dog and its relative peacefulness. He notes do-hee's amazing love for cats, writing that he felt that the cat was a pet that his dog got.
- In addition, an important and very positive quality of these dogs is their sociality and readiness to adapt to another creature, especially, from the point of view of a mastiff, weak. If, for example, a child, a puppy, an invalid or an elderly person plays with a Tibetan mastiff, a huge dog will never make a careless movement, he will be gentle and helpful.
- They can handle loneliness with ease.
- Very important point: if you get a Tibetan just for protection, you should learn some nuances. Such dogs are more active at night, so during the day they are likely to be inactive and sleepy.
- With all the advantages of this breed, it is categorically not suitable for people without experience.
Moult
These dogs shed several times a year. During this period, be sure to regularly and carefully comb out the coat, otherwise it may roll, and this will bring unpleasant and even painful sensations to the dog.
Breeding: estrus, how many puppies gives birth
The first heat usually occurs at eight months of age, but some may be a year or older. Estrus occurs once a year, lasts 21-28 days, usually in autumn or early winter. At this time, immunity weakens, hypothermia, drafts, and getting wet should not be allowed.
Tibetan mastiffs reach puberty later than other dogs. For a bitch, the first mating is permissible no earlier than at the age of two, for males it is determined individually (males become mature later than females, at about 3-4 years). For mating, you need to get a positive assessment at the breeding examination. Compliance with the breed standard and the health of future producers is important.
Pregnancy lasts, on average, 59-65 days, but the timing can fluctuate in both directions. During pregnancy, the bitch becomes sharply aggressive, she can only let her owners in.
The bitch's belly drops 3-4 days before birth. A couple of days before giving birth, she begins to dig holes, following her natural instincts. On the eve of childbirth, the dog refuses to eat (but not always). The first puppy is born, as a rule, within an hour after the first attempts, for subsequent puppies this interval may be longer. Usually 5-12 puppies are born in a litter.
Conditions of detention
Can live on the street?
For Tibetan mastiffs, keeping in a private house is preferable than in an apartment, as these dogs need more free space. Although the maintenance in the apartment will also not cause too much trouble for the owner, but imagine what it is like for such a giant in our cells?
You need to walk with them 3-4 times a day, the duration of the walk should be at least an hour. Walking is recommended, even if the dog is kept in a private house, otherwise he may not have enough physical activity. Walking is recommended to be carried out in different places, because. Tibetans enjoy exploring new territory and enjoy long walks.
Can you keep it on a chain?
The Tibetan Mastiff must not be chained! And it is also not recommended to keep the dog in the aviary around the clock, it is worth putting him in the aviary when strangers are at home. The aviary for the breed of this dog must be metal, strong, you can not put a net or chain-link.
The optimal dimensions for the booth: 110X85X90 centimeters (bed).
The yard must be surrounded by a fence of sufficient height, otherwise the dog may jump over the low fence and run away.
Necessary care: how to care for, maintain and educate
What does it eat
What to feed and how much? What do they eat? The nuances and features of nutrition
When feeding a pet, you need to consider the following points:
- protein foods should make up to 60 percent of the diet. It can be lean meat, boiled sea fish, dairy products, eggs;
- cereals can only serve as a source of carbohydrates, but not the basis of the diet. Better suited rice or buckwheat porridge;
- it is necessary to include vegetables in the diet - carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, pumpkin, greens;
- vegetable oil should be used as a source of fat.
Approximately the same composition should be in the finished dry food. Suitable premium and super premium foods include Almo Nature for adult large breed dogs and Grandorf Lamb with Rice for adult large breed dogs. The required feed intake is always indicated on the packaging, depending on the age and weight of the animal.
Ready-made food cannot be mixed with natural, you need to feed either one or the other.
Let's talk about feeding a puppy - what do babies feed? Experts do not advise feeding puppies with food. From one and a half to three months, the puppy should be fed 5-6 times a day, preferably lightly boiled beef and cottage cheese or kefir, you can also add steamed vegetables or vegetable puree with vegetable oil.
Then gradually, as the puppy grows up, he is transferred to two meals a day. In no case should a puppy be overfed until the age of 15 months, it is better to give less food, otherwise he may gain excess weight, dangerous to health.
Do not give your dog the following foods:
- fatty meat, sausages, smoked meats, lard,
- river fish,
- fried, spicy, marinated dishes, seasonings, sauces,
- sweets and flour
- tubular bones of a bird.
To avoid joint diseases, it is necessary to include chondroprotectors, supplements with phosphorus and calcium, special feeds for puppies with a high content of glucosamine in the nutrition of puppies. Synthetic vitamins are not needed.
How much does he eat per day?
So how much does a dog eat per day? The total daily amount of food should be approximately three to four percent of the pet's weight.
How many times to wash and comb?
Hair care is not difficult. It is necessary to comb out the pet (grooming) once a week with a large stiff brush. During the molting period, it is recommended to do this daily, preferably in the yard, otherwise the entire floor in the house will be covered with a wool carpet.
wet Tibetan Mastiff in water
These dogs do not need to be bathed often (no more than once a month, and then if necessary, for example, when preparing for an exhibition), they do not have a specific smell, and they are very clean creatures.
How to cut?
There are no special difficulties with a haircut. For these dogs, a hygienic haircut is necessary. If the wool has fallen off, there are a lot of tangles that cannot be combed out, you have to use a haircut for a typewriter. You can not cut the clipper too short, it can lead to colds and pneumonia.
Training and education
How to train a Tibetan mastiff? It should be noted that this breed is quite difficult to train at home. It is recommended to take an obedience course at a kennel club. You need to start learning commands with simple commands: “place!”, “to me”, “sit”, “walk”, “fu”, “lie down”, “nearby”. In the first year of life, teams are learned, and then they are already consolidated, and endurance is also trained.
You must understand that the Tibetan Mastiff is a dog that requires respect, not mere orders. This is not your servant, this is your friend (in general, this is how ALL breeds should be treated). If the animal recognizes the validity and the very essence of the command, it will carry it out.
Nicknames for boys and girls: how to call
Since the breed is of Chinese origin, it is customary to call these dogs by Chinese names.
Examples of names for girls:
- jia,
- Lijuan,
- Meili,
- Xiu,
- mingzhu,
- ting,
- Zhilan,
- shihong,
- yanlin,
- Yanmei.
Names for boys:
- bingwen,
- Bojing,
- weiming,
- Weisheng,
- wenyan,
- guangli,
- Gian,
- Zian,
- kiang,
- kingshan,
- Pengfei,
- Cheng,
- Shining.
Photos and pictures
Just look at these photos of adult mastiffs next to a person:
chow chow mix
How cute are the puppies!
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Video
Watch informative videos about the breed:
From our article, you learned the characteristics, reviews and cost (the exact price in Russia) of the dog breed, photo, weight, height, feeding and care.
Warmly loved by many people who prefer massive dogs. This breed of dog has a well-developed musculature, a wide chest and back, short hair and a wide variety of colors. There are many types of mastiffs, and some of them are popular among guard dog lovers. In this article, we will talk about the main types of Mastiff: English, Brazilian, Neapolitan, Spanish, Tibetan, Bullmastiff, Japanese and French.
English
The mastiff, whose species is attributed to the coasts of "Foggy Albion", still has some distinctive characteristics of the spirit of the British Isles. Reliability, confidence, patience, pride and courage - all these qualities can be attributed to the character of our English representative of this breed.
Immune to anger should not be considered laziness, as the English Mastiff can give out an outburst of rage, which will turn into a tragedy for the offender. The participation of such a dog in exhibitions may not bring pleasure to both the owner and the dog. Mastiffs of the English type do not like shows, and they endure them, probably, only for the sake of their master, to whom they are devoted. And devotion in this type of dog is developed at a high level.
Important! The purebred English Mastiff has a head length to width ratio of 3:2.
English Mastiffs are very friendly dogs. Many owners of the English Mastiff declare that their pets will never harm other animals or people. That is why you do not need to close the dog in another room when guests come to you. The English Mastiff enjoys the company of his family members and will proudly protect them.
In addition, not a single robber will dare to climb into your house. It is difficult to say whether the dog will rush to the robbers, but it is unlikely that they will cross the threshold of your house, since at the sight of the threatening size of the mastiff, the instinct of self-preservation will definitely work for thieves. By the way, dogs of this breed are very obedient, and it is not so difficult to train them. Probably, at the subconscious level, they feel that due to their majestic size, they already remain kings among domestic animals.
The English dog looks quite harmonious and proportionally complex. In purebred breeds of dogs, the length of the head is 34% of the height at the withers, and the length of the body is 12% greater than this length. The coat of the dog is not very hard, there are pronounced folds on the muzzle. According to experts, purebred English mastiffs have certain standards for the shape of the head, by which the very thoroughbred is determined.
The muzzle is short, from the foreground it resembles a square plane. The nose should not be depressed, but it should not protrude above the lip either. The jaw is dense and wide, arched.
This breed has well developed teeth and bite, so the grip of the English dog is very powerful. The eyes are small, widely spaced opposite each other, diamond-shaped and dark. The ears are set far apart and hang down along the cheeks. When the dog begins to listen, the ears rise slightly.
The chest and back are unusually broad and muscular. The chest is very well developed, so the volume of the lungs is also large. The tail is wide and set high. The dog moves evenly and confidently, and due to the large muscle mass, an impression of unbalanced movement is created. Recently, scientists have begun experimenting with connecting lines of the English Mastiff with others.
The main result is an improvement in gait and movement while running. It should also be noted that the above breed standard (characteristics of the body, head, color, tail, muscles, etc.) can be attributed to almost all types of mastiff.
Brazilian
One of the varieties of mastiffs is the Brazilian, or as it is also called - the Brazilian Fila. This breed of dog is distinguished by incredible physical data. She will be an excellent watchman for any security company. The Brazilian Fila is loyal and arrogant, showing pronounced aggression towards strangers. Loyal to the owner if he treats him with respect and obedience when performing various commands.
Did you know? Scientists believe that all modern subspecies of the mastiff are descended from the Tibetan species of this breed.
The physique of the Brazilian Fila is very similar to the English variety of this dog. The back and chest are still the same wide, having a huge muscle mass. The ears hang down, there are wrinkles on the muzzle. The head is wide, the eyes are small, set in a single line. The Brazilian Fila has thick skin and a strong tail that flares out at the base.
The color of this dog has shades of yellow, brindle, ashy, sometimes dark hazel. The coat is short and dense, with a black mask on the muzzle. Sometimes there are Brazilian Fila with a purely black color (white spots on the chest and legs may also be present).
The dog's gait resembles that of a camel (paws on one side move synchronously). Thanks to this stride, the Brazilian Fila can cover long distances with a minimum amount of energy.
The character of the Brazilian mastiff is very aggressive, but it only manifests itself in relation to strangers. That is why this breed of dog was banned from domestication in some countries. She will defend her territory from strangers to the last, so it is advisable to use the Brazilian Fila in the territories of military depots and secret organizations.
But the wolf character does not mean that this dog can show aggression towards the owner. On the contrary, she is very sensitive, affectionate and gentle to loved ones. In the house, she behaves like a cat, and will never harm your children. The Brazilian Fila is able to tolerate children, walk with them and protect them from other aggressive animals.
Neapolitan
The Neapolitan Mastiff or Mastino Neapolitano is an Italian variety of this dog breed. According to historical information, it was Neapolitano mastino that Alexander the Great loved very much, using it in battles against sworn enemies. The Romans have long used the Neapolitano mastino to hunt bears and bulls, so this breed is considered to be a fighting, hunting breed. Until the start of World War II, it was not recognized in the world, and only after 1945 the Neapolitan Mastiff began to be bred throughout Western Europe.
The breed standard is not much different from other mastiff varieties. Mastino very often have a black or brindle coat color. They move in the same way as other representatives of the breed (there are obvious problems with navigation).
However, the Neapolitan dog is an excellent defender and guardian of any territory. He, like the Brazilian Fila, will not let a stranger into his territory, however, he always shows kindness and affection to the owner of the mastino. Properly trained mastino will not harm other animals in the yard and will constantly play with children.
The Neapolitan mastino is easy to give in, so the owners do not have problems with the dog. At the sight of guests, this dog may be slightly alert, but as soon as he feels that there is no danger for him, he will immediately retreat and will no longer pay attention to the guest. The most important thing is not to tease and in no case beat the mastino, as his strong character can give out a violent reaction at the most inopportune moment.
It is also important to note that the mastino does not need to be kept on a chain, as this will embitter him, and aggression can spill out even on the owner. Neapolitan mastiffs are free and proud dogs that love kindness from the owner, in turn responding to him in the same way.
Spanish
The mountainous regions of Extremadura are considered to be the birthplace of the Spanish Mastiff. It was here that these dogs were hunters and protectors of agricultural land 300 or more years ago. Spanish mastiffs were used as fighting dogs, they often alone could defeat a wild boar, and even a bear. At the moment, the Spanish type of dog is used in security activities. In 1982, the breed standard was approved.
The Mastiff from Extremadura is one of the. With its impressive growth (about 80 cm), it has a weight of up to 90 kg. Today, perhaps, among the herd of cows on Spanish territory, such dogs are no longer found, since they have become less and less used as herd guards. However, on large estates of aristocrats, Spanish mastiffs can proudly walk around the lawn, guarding the territory.
Nature has rewarded this breed of dogs with high intelligence and a stable psyche. Spanish mastiffs are easy to train and listen to their master, but force training methods are not applicable to them. Such dogs love space and large territories, so it is better to keep them in a country house and walk in the vast fields. This dog, although it looks very serious and strict, still needs the owner's love. Its mass is directly proportional to the kindness and affection for the owner, the dog is very devoted and ready at any second to give his life for his family members.
However, the breed standard and characteristics of the Spanish Mastiff do not differ much from the characteristics of other dogs of this breed. has the same huge and proportional body, large muscles, wrinkles on the muzzle, wide and powerful chest and back, strong tail and short hair.
Tibetan
(Tibetan Great Dane, Do-khi) - has a predominantly black coat color with red tan marks. It looks like a majestic huge lion or a proud fluffy bear. It is believed that the larger the Do-hi at the withers, the more valuable it is. However, the breed standard for the "Tibetan" remains essentially the same as for the other representatives described above.
The character of the Tibetan Great Dane is very persistent, however, in the East there are many legends that supposedly this beast crushed many opponents, and alone. Probably because of this, Do-hee is an excellent watchdog. Moreover, he will never attack a stranger who does not have evil intentions. As the owners of Tibetan Great Danes say, their dogs at the subconscious level can feel the bad intentions of a stranger, and then the latter will definitely not be saved.
Did you know?$1,500,000 is the amount paid by a Chinese coal tycoon for a puppy of a true purebred Tibetan Mastiff.
There are two varieties of Tibetan Great Danes: one is trained for subsequent show classes and is called Tsang-khi in China, and the second is trained purposefully for security (in China they are called Do-khi). There are practically no differences between them, only Tsang-khi is bred specifically for show classes, and he has kindness and calmness at the genetic level. In addition, show class dogs are expensive and rare, which is why they give their owner a special status.
The health of the Tibetan Great Dane is quite strong, and some representatives can live up to 15-17 years. There is a line of the Tibetan mastiff, which is called aboriginal. Such a line of dogs practically does not suffer from all sorts of diseases, in addition, the aboriginal mastiff line lives on average about 16 years, while the average life expectancy of the English mastiff is only 11 years.
Bullmastiffs rarely show excessive activity, and they will not even bark without a particularly important reason. These dogs bark only when they or their territory is in danger. And in such cases, bullmastiffs bark very loudly. With other animals (especially with other breeds of dogs), these dogs do not get along well and can often attack them. However, it does not matter, there are special socialization courses where dogs are made less aggressive towards people and animals around them. But then the watchdog makings of the dog will worsen, so the final choice remains with the owner.
Bullmastiffs first appeared in England in the 19th century. This breed of dog was bred as a result of the formation of a cross between a mastiff and a bulldog. Half a century later, bullmastiffs ended up in the United States, where they began to be actively used to protect various objects. It is known that bullmastiffs were the guards of diamond mines in South Africa, and also appeared in the movie "Rocky" as watchdogs.
The coat of the Bullmastiff is short, often colored dark brown or red. This type of coat does not allow dogs to be kept in extreme cold conditions (Siberia, Alaska, etc.). The muzzle is black, wrinkled, because of the folds, the dog often drools from the mouth. Bullmastiffs are relatively small compared to their breed counterparts. However, they have strong muscles that are ideally visible from any position, as the coat of dogs is short.
One well-known Matsif lover who created breed standards once said that Bullmastiffs are flexible, like gymnasts, but not very massive. But flexibility gives such dogs even higher watchdog qualities, because when chasing a bullmastiff it will be difficult to get away (unlike other representatives of the Mastiff breed, bullmastiffs run quite quickly because of their flexibility). Moreover, such dogs have a huge square head and a powerful jaw, grabbing the intruder's sleeve, the dog will never let him go (only at the owner's command).
What is the temperament of a dog? Everything is very simple, some cynologists and dog breeders determine the temperament of the dog according to his behavior. Judged in this way, the bullmastiff is phlegmatic, but 10% of choleric also exists in him (and at the sight of a stranger with bad intentions, the bullmastiff becomes completely sanguine).
This type of mastiff is quite calm, slow and balanced in a calm environment, but if a cat runs nearby, an unsocialized dog immediately becomes aggressive and violent. The dog treats the owner and his children affectionately and with kindness. In addition, bullmastiffs are very loyal and will fight for their master to the last.
Japanese
The Japanese mastiff on the coasts of the Land of the Rising Sun is commonly called the Tosa Inu. It was here that this type of fighting dogs was bred by the selection method. Until the beginning of the 19th century, there were no worthy dogs in Japan. Any Japanese dog easily lost fights to Western dogs. Thus, American and European dog breeders hurt the honor of the samurai, and they began to look for ways to breed a completely new and ideal fighting dog.
Important!Tosa Inu and Great Dane have predispositions to certain forms of cancer.
Soon, on one of the Japanese islands, breeders bred a dog called Tosa Inu. A few years later, the fame of how powerful such a dog was, spread throughout Japan and beyond. The Tosa Inu has Matsif, Great Dane, Pointer and even bloodhound genes. Each genetic chain has contributed to a new breed of dog, and today the Tosa Inu is famous for its courage, strength, agility, fearlessness, and good search qualities.
Such dogs are used only for performances in battles, and in different weight categories (therefore, breeders brought out dogs with different weights). As pets, a guest from Japan is practically never used, except perhaps in the estates of aristocrats, where a reliable guard is needed who can “tear” every evil stranger.
The average weight of dogs of this breed is about 70 kg. Previously, there were individuals that exceeded 100 kg in weight, but after the Second World War they completely disappeared, and breeders never restored them. The growth of Tosa Inu varies from 65 to 80 cm. Such dogs are distinguished by a single color throughout the coat (only small spots on the chest are allowed).
Like all representatives of the Mastiff breed, Tosa Inu has a gentle character. Such dogs are affectionate and kind to the owner, and can play with children for days on end. However, Tosa Inu has a completely opposite reaction to strangers. In addition, due to the genes of the Japanese mastiff sniffer dogs, special services are often used for various search operations.
French
The French Mastiff or Dogue de Bordeaux is an ancient type of dog that has long protected the huts of butchers and lumberjacks from the misfortunes of wild animals or robbers. The Dogue de Bordeaux is often compared to the Neapolitan mastiff, and some even argue that the French version of the mastiff originated precisely from the Neapolitan. The Dogues de Bordeaux, as well as the Spanish and Neapolitans, were often used for guarding and hunting large wild animals. Today, a dog originally from France is often used in dog fights, as it has large and strong muscles and good agility.
Outwardly, the Great Dane resembles a bulldog, however, the first one is slightly larger. The breed standard is not much different from the Bullmastiff and other representatives of the Mastiff breed. The hair of the Dogue de Bordeaux is short and can be dyed in all shades of red. The purebred breed allows for a small white spot on the chest (spots on the neck or head indicate that the breed is not purebred).
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a brave, serious, calm and intelligent dog who is very devoted to his master. He barks little, often doing it only in the most necessary situations. Since the dog is a guard dog, he will immediately attack strangers who come to his territory. However, with children and the owner, the Dogue de Bordeaux is affectionate and soft. He also accepts other animals, including dogs, if he grows up with them from an early age.
The French Mastiff has an intimidating appearance and without proper social training can act aggressively. You can keep her close, but in this case you need to walk often. The Dogue de Bordeaux, like the English Mastiff, loves space and a lot of freedom, he must feel his omnipotence over other animals. In this case, the dog will remain kind and affectionate.Finally, I would like to note that this article describes far from all types of mastiffs that can be found in the modern world. Breeders are constantly trying to create such dogs that will have all the qualities of the best breeds. However, the eight types of dogs of this breed described by us are among the most popular in the world among hunters, guards and people involved in dog fighting.