Do Khyi Breed description: Character & Co

The essence of the Tibetan Mastiff: stubbornly cool

Hundreds of years where the Tibetan Mastiff acted as a guard dog still form their characteristics today. If your Do Khyi is well socialised within your family, they will love your children and protect all of you - including any other animals living in the household.

The Tibetan Mastiff is loyal and caring with their family and patient with children. They are more likely to see strangers as potential attackers - and will not be intimidated by them. Tibetan Mastiff males can also be extremely dominant towards foreign males.

The Tibetan Mastiff is very independent and will not do anything that they perceive as a pointless task. All while staying relaxed and calm. If they want to, they can be very teachable, but a lot of the time they lose interest.

Training: not for beginners

The strong-willed Tibetan Mastiff is no dog for first-time owners. They need a consistent master who always stays fair and enjoys working with their strong character. It takes experience and understanding for dogs to do this intelligent dog justice and to train them in a way so they can become the good-natured and loyal housemate they have the potential to be. In an ideal case, a unique relationship is created. It is recommended to attend a competent dog school.

The Tibetan Mastiff in Central Europe

Due to its size alone, the Do Khyi is not suitable for keeping in a small apartment. It simply needs space. It also needs a territory to protect. A detached house with a large, securely fenced garden would be perfect for them.

The Do Khyi has the watchdog life in its blood. At the same time they make a good tracking dog and are suitable for some dog sports, also as rescue dogs. As therapy dogs, especially for children, their sensitivity comes through.

The Do Khyi needs regular exercise, but nothing that is too fast or intensive. Long walks are enough for them.

Health

The Tibetan Mastiff is a late bloomer. Females are only really grown up at the age of three years, males at four years.

Breed-specific diseases are not known in this robust dog. However, problems can arise from inbreeding, as well as from excess weight.

You should pay special attention to their teeth. Either you give your dog chewy treats that match their size and teeth, or you brush their teeth regularly.

What else you should know if you want to buy a Tibetan Mastiff

Before you buy a Do Khyi, think about whether it suits you. You should have fun working with this strong character. You should offer them the right conditions such as enough space, a task and an area they can protect. Remember that the big dog commands respect and needs a lot of food.

In the Swiss canton of Ticino, the Tibetan Mastiff is on the list of potentially dangerous breeds.

If you want to buy a Mastiff, you should visit a serious breeder. Find a breeding without history of inbreeding, so that you can enjoy your new housemate for a long time.