When
the English first started to classify dogs, all small dogs were called
terriers. But now the Terrier (from terra, ground) group is composed
only of dogs bred to hunt vermin from the ground. The TT never rooted
game, nor does it have the peppery disposition associated with the
true terrier.
Are
they easy to train?
Tibetans
are very quick learners and can learn to avoid doing things just as
quickly as they learn how to do them! When training TTs one must
remember they are very self-reliant and can have an independent turn
of mind. However, they are extremely eager to please; the key to
successful training is earning both their love and their respect for
you as leader.
Are
they healthy?
The
Tibetan is a very hardy breed and is considered long-lived with most
living well beyond 12 years and many to 15 or 16 years. There are some
defects found in the general dog population also found in TTs, though
they remain relatively unaffected compared to many others.
Conscientious breeders screen their stock and can explain these
problems and their incidence: hip dysplasia, patella luxation,
hernias, progressive retinal atrophy, lens luxataion and cataracts.
Are
they easy to take care of?
The
TT is not a particularly high energy dog, and he normally adapts very
well to the lifestyle and pace of his family, particularly upon
maturity.
Remember
that the TT must be groomed on a regular basis and, to keep in good
shape, this means a proper weekly (at least) brushing. Brushed, their
coat protects them just as our clothes protect us and looks wonderful.
Unbrushed and untended, the coat resembles an unremovable wool or felt
jacket. Puppies shed their soft "puppy coat" while growing
their adult double coat. During this "blow", which may last
for several weeks (or months sometimes), they need more frequent
grooming and may appear to mat up overnight!
Of course a TT can be
trimmed in a variety of cute styles, but he will not look like a TT!
Are
they good with children? Strangers?
Most
Tibetans are more playful and outgoing with their families than with
strangers. However, a puppy’s personality depends partly on how it
is raised. One who has met many people and faced lots of new
situations in his early months of life will be more outgoing than one
who did not. Some TTs adore everyone, straightaway. Some exhibit an
I-am-going- to-look-you-over- first discretion. This intelligent
quality has nothing to do with shyness or aggression, and was quite
correct in a breed living in a land where a stranger might well be an
enemy to humans or livestock.. A TT who does not wish to socialize
will normally turn his back and go off by himself until the visitor
leaves. TTs will love children who are part of their beloved family.
And they will enjoy the presence of their children’s friends and
probably love them too. If they do not normally live with children,
like all dogs, they should be introduced gradually and under
supervision.
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