Tibetan Terrier

A dog breed.

The Tibetan Terrier is not actually a “terrier.” It does not have the terrier disposition, nor does it burrow into the earth as terriers were originally expected to do.

The Tibetan people called them “luck bringers” or “Holy dogs,” neither of which seemed suitable as a breed name in the Western world of dogs. So they became known as “Tibetan Terriers.”

The Tibetan Terrier is an exceptionally healthy breed, probably as a result of the rigorous natural selection in their homeland. The people of Tibet made no effort to eliminate any of the many colors found in this breed, believing that good health and delightful temperament were far more important than coat color. The Tibetan Terrier is an exceptional companion and friend — healthy, playful, intelligent, and affectionate.

The Tibetan Terrier was admitted to registration in the American Kennel Club Stud Book on May 1, 1973, and to regular show classification in the Non-Sporting Group at AKC shows on October 3, 1973.

They come in black, white, gold, and red plus many variations and mixes of these colors.