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Utility · Tibet

Tibetan Terrier

A walker's guide to the Tibetan Terrier: how much exercise they need, what to expect on and off the lead, and what to ask the owner before the first walk.

Medium, 8 to 14 kgActiveNot a terrierLong coatSnowshoe feetAgile
Exercise a day60 min plus
Energy3 of 5
Walk styleBouncy, nimble, sure-footed
With other dogsFriendly and playful

Overview

Despite the name, the Tibetan Terrier was never a terrier. It was an all-round companion and herding helper in Tibetan villages and monasteries, considered a bringer of luck and never sold. Its long double coat, large flat feet that act like snowshoes and nimble, goat-like movement all come from life at altitude.

The breed is cheerful, affectionate and lively, with a touch of independence. Tibetan Terriers are good with other dogs and people they know, a little reserved with strangers, and they love to be busy. They are agile enough to be real escape artists over garden walls.

Exercise and walking needs

An hour a day, split in two, with some off-lead time and a few games keeps most adults in good form. They are athletic for their size and enjoy a scramble over rough ground, agility-style obstacles and a good run.

The coat is the main practical issue for a walker. It collects mud, leaves, burrs and water, and the hair between the toes picks up grit. The owner will not thank you for a swamp walk the day before a groom.

Daily minimum60 minutes
Ideal2 walks a day
Off-lead timeMost days once trained

On the walk

  • Recall: Usually good; the breed is attentive and likes to keep an eye on its person. It may take a moment to finish a sniff before coming.
  • Other dogs: Playful and sociable with most dogs. A good candidate for a mixed group walk.
  • Coat: Long hair drags through everything. Avoid the muddiest routes, and check between the toes for grass seeds in summer.
  • Agility: This dog can jump and climb more than you expect. Check fences and watch for it scaling walls or banks.

Tips for professional walkers

  1. Carry a brush and a towel; a few minutes at the door saves the owner an hour.
  2. Keep the hair over the eyes clear or tied back so the dog can see traffic and other dogs.
  3. Give the dog a bit of climbing and balance work on the walk; it loves logs and banks.
  4. Ask about the grooming schedule and steer clear of brambles in the days before it.
Every dog is an individual. Treat this as a starting point and go with what the owner tells you about their dog. Anything to do with health belongs with the owner and their vet.

What to ask the owner

  • When is the next groom, and are there routes or conditions you want avoided to protect the coat?
  • How reliable is recall, and are there places the dog is allowed to run free?
  • Any hip or eye issues known in the dog or its line that should affect the walk?
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