The Tibetan Terrier must be a delightful companion. The people of the Tsang Province have enjoyed their company for thousands of years. Recent DNA testing places these shaggy dogs on the list of 14 most ancient dog breeds, meaning they have more genetic similarities to wolves than most other dogs nipping at our heels today.
Not really a terrier but an apso instead, the Tibetan Terrier was so named by European travelers remembering the beloved terriers they left back home. Apso means shaggy or bearded dog in Tibet and Tsang is the province from which the breed originated. Thus the Tibetan name for the dog is Tsang Apso.
Some people claim the Tibetan Terrier is lucky and originated as a devoted temple guard dog but other people claim they are just good all-purpose dogs to have around the farm. Regardless of which story is true, they were too important in early Tibet to sell so they were given away instead as prized gifts under very special circumstances.
Tibetan Terriers are medium-sized dogs with a powerful square build and a shaggy coat. Height and weight don't differ much between the sexes so most Tibetan Terriers stand 14 to 16 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 18 to 30 pounds when fully grown.
Except for chocolate and liver tones, all colors are desirable in a Tibetan Terrier, whether the color is solid, brindle, or any mixture in between. Their coat is comprised of two layers. A long, shaggy layer that resembles human hair tops the warm, insulating undercoat. A black nose and dark eyes are most valued.
One feature that distinguishes the Tibetan Terrier from all others is its feet, which are broad and flat, acting as natural snowshoes that are ideal for climbing the snow-covered mountains of Tibet.
Known to be intelligent, amiable, and affectionate, Tibetan Terriers have a tendency to be jealous enough to make sharing their space with another dog a little difficult. The expected lifespan of these lovable companions is 15 to 17 years and they have a susceptibility to problems of the eyes and joints.
Early Tibetan peoples must have loved their canine companions. On the list of 14 most ancient dog breeds, the Tibetan Terrier is joined by the Lhaso Apso and Shih Tzu, both of which originated in the region of ancient Tibet.