| TT Information Page |
The standard is the authoritative description of the Tibetan Terrier (or TT). It
describes a medium (average 14-16 inches at the shoulder and 20-24 pounds),
long-coated dog of square proportions. (That is, the distance from the point of
the shoulder to the root of the tail is the same as the distance from the from the
highest point of the withers to the ground.) The coat is double, having a soft,
wooly undercoat and a profuse outer coat. The outer coat is sometimes straight
and sometimes waved. There is no preferred color, and TTs come in a wide
range including white, gold, tricolor, brindle, silver, black, and many parti-color
variations. Occasionally chocolate-colored TTs occur, but their chocolate
noses are considered a fault, so they are almost never shown or used for
breeding.
The dark, expressive eyes are covered with a "fall" of hair, sometimes making
them difficult to see, but TTs have long eyelashes to keep the hair out of their
eyes, and their eyesight is very good.The generally accepted history of the TT
breed says that they were raised for hundreds of years by the monks that lived
high in the mountains of Tibet. The TTs were companions to the monks, and
generally not working dogs, though it is believed that occasionally they worked
as herding dogs. TTs were never sold, but only occasionally given to friends or
travelers for good luck. With this heritage, it is easy to see why TTs make
excellent pets and family companions. They are sometimes a little shy at first
around strangers, but generally very outgoing and good-natured dogs.TTs
seem to adapt to the lifestyle of their family. They're content to be couch
potatoes in less active homes, but are also willing and able to participate in
family activities such as hiking or camping or dog activities such as agility or
obedience training.TTs are extremely intelligent, and can be trained to do
almost anything, but they respond best to positive training methods. Being as
intelligent as they are, they are quick to learn how to train humans too, so
consistency in dealing with them is important.Their long coats, while beautiful
when neatly groomed, require frequent brushing or (if not being shown)
trimming to prevent matting. Grooming can, however, become a special time
of bonding if done frequently for short periods, as it is a time when the TT
gets your full attention.
Unfortunately, there are instances of genetic diseases in TTs, including Canine
Hip Dysplasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), and Lens Luxation. For
these reasons, it is important that TTs used for breeding have CERF (Canine
Eye Registration Foundation) and OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals)
certification.
(Taken from the information page of the Tibetan Terrier Club of America)
describes a medium (average 14-16 inches at the shoulder and 20-24 pounds),
long-coated dog of square proportions. (That is, the distance from the point of
the shoulder to the root of the tail is the same as the distance from the from the
highest point of the withers to the ground.) The coat is double, having a soft,
wooly undercoat and a profuse outer coat. The outer coat is sometimes straight
and sometimes waved. There is no preferred color, and TTs come in a wide
range including white, gold, tricolor, brindle, silver, black, and many parti-color
variations. Occasionally chocolate-colored TTs occur, but their chocolate
noses are considered a fault, so they are almost never shown or used for
breeding.
The dark, expressive eyes are covered with a "fall" of hair, sometimes making
them difficult to see, but TTs have long eyelashes to keep the hair out of their
eyes, and their eyesight is very good.The generally accepted history of the TT
breed says that they were raised for hundreds of years by the monks that lived
high in the mountains of Tibet. The TTs were companions to the monks, and
generally not working dogs, though it is believed that occasionally they worked
as herding dogs. TTs were never sold, but only occasionally given to friends or
travelers for good luck. With this heritage, it is easy to see why TTs make
excellent pets and family companions. They are sometimes a little shy at first
around strangers, but generally very outgoing and good-natured dogs.TTs
seem to adapt to the lifestyle of their family. They're content to be couch
potatoes in less active homes, but are also willing and able to participate in
family activities such as hiking or camping or dog activities such as agility or
obedience training.TTs are extremely intelligent, and can be trained to do
almost anything, but they respond best to positive training methods. Being as
intelligent as they are, they are quick to learn how to train humans too, so
consistency in dealing with them is important.Their long coats, while beautiful
when neatly groomed, require frequent brushing or (if not being shown)
trimming to prevent matting. Grooming can, however, become a special time
of bonding if done frequently for short periods, as it is a time when the TT
gets your full attention.
Unfortunately, there are instances of genetic diseases in TTs, including Canine
Hip Dysplasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), and Lens Luxation. For
these reasons, it is important that TTs used for breeding have CERF (Canine
Eye Registration Foundation) and OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals)
certification.
(Taken from the information page of the Tibetan Terrier Club of America)
| The Standard |
Tibetan Terrier Breed Standard
Non-Sporting Group
The Tibetan Terrier evolved over many centuries, surviving in Tibet's extreme
climate and difficult terrain. The breed developed a protective double coat,
compact size, unique foot construction, and great agility. The Tibetan Terrier
served as a steadfast, devoted companion in all of his owner's endeavors.
General Appearance
The Tibetan Terrier is a medium-sized dog, profusely coated, of powerful build,
and square in proportion. A fall of hair covers the eyes and foreface. The
well-feathered tail curls up and falls forward over the back. The feet are large,
flat, and round in shape producing a snowshoe effect that provides traction. The
Tibetan Terrier is well balanced and capable of both strong and efficient
movement. The Tibetan Terrier is shown as naturally as possible.
Head
Skull--Medium length neither broad nor coarse. The length from the eye to the
tip of the nose is equal to the length from eye to the occiput. The skull narrows
slightly from ear to eye. It is not domed but not absolutely flat between the ears.
The head is well furnished with long hair, falling forward over the eyes and
foreface. The cheekbones are curved but not so overdeveloped as to bulge.
Muzzle--The lower jaw has a small amount of beard. Stop--There is marked
stop but not exaggerated. Nose--Black. Teeth--White, strong and evenly placed.
There is a distinct curve in the jaws between the canines. A tight scissors bite, a
tight reverse scissors bite or a level bite are equally acceptable. A slightly
undershot bite is acceptable.
Eyes-- Large, set fairly wide apart, dark brown and may appear black in color,
neither prominent nor sunken. Eye rims are dark in color. Ears--Pendant, falling
not too close to the head, heavily feathered with a "V" shaped leather
proportionate to the head.
Faults--Weak pointed muzzle. Any color other than a black nose. Overshot bite
or a very undershot bite or a wry mouth. Long narrow head. Lack of fall over
the eyes and foreface.
Neck and Body
Neck-- Length proportionate to the body and head. Body--Compact, square and
strong, capable of both speed and endurance. Topline--The back is level in
motion. Chest--Heavily furnished. The brisket extends downward to the top of
the elbow in the mature Tibetan Terrier. Ribs--The body is well ribbed up and
never cloddy or coarse. The rib cage is not too wide across the chest and
narrows slightly to permit the forelegs to work free at the sides. Loin--Slightly
arched. Tail--Medium length, heavily furnished, set on fairly high and falls
forward over the back, may curl to either side. There may be a kink near the tip.
Forequarters
Shoulders--Sloping, well muscled and well laid back. Legs--Straight and strong
when viewed from the front. Heavily furnished. The vertical distance from the
withers to the elbow equals the distance from the elbows to the ground.
Feet--The feet of the Tibetan Terrier are unique in form among dogs. They are
large, flat, and round in shape producing a snowshoe effect that provides
traction. The pads are thick and strong. They are heavily furnished with hair
between the toes and pads. Hair between the toes and pads may be trimmed
level with the underside of the pads for health reasons. The dog should stand
well down on its pads. Dewclaws--May be removed.
Hindquarters
Legs--Well furnished, with well bent stifles and the hind legs are slightly longer
than the forelegs. Thighs--Relatively broad and well muscled. Hocks--Low set
and turn neither in nor out. Feet--Same as forefeet. Dewclaws May be removed.
Coat
Double coat. Undercoat is soft and woolly. Outer coat is profuse and fine but
never silky or woolly. May be wavy or straight. Coat is long but should not
hang to the ground. When standing on a hard surface an area of light should be
seen under the dog. The coat of puppies is shorter, single and often has a softer
texture than that of adults. A natural part is often present over the neck and
back. Fault--Lack of double coat in adults. Sculpturing, scissoring, stripping or
shaving are totally contrary to breed type and are serious faults.
Color
Any color or combination of colors including white are acceptable to the breed.
There are no preferred colors or combinations of colors.
Gait
The Tibetan Terrier has a free, effortless stride with good reach in front and
flexibility in the rear allowing full extension. When gaiting the hind legs should
go neither inside nor outside the front legs but should move on the same track
approaching single tracking when the dog is moved at a fast trot. The dog with
the correct foot and leg construction moves with elasticity and drive indicating
that the dog is capable of great agility as well as endurance.
Size
Average weight is 20 to 24 pounds, but the weight range may be 18 to 30
pounds. Proportion of weight to height is far more important than specific
weight and should reflect a well-balanced square dog. The average height in
dogs is 15 to 16 inches, bitches slightly smaller. The length, measured from the
point of shoulder to the root of tail, is equal to the height measured from the
highest point of the withers to the ground. Faults--Any height above 17 inches
or below 14 inches.
Temperament
The Tibetan Terrier is highly intelligent, sensitive, loyal, devoted and
affectionate. The breed may be cautious or reserved. Fault--Extreme shyness.
Approved March 10, 1987
Tibetan Terrier Links
Colors and Markings | Did You Know? | History | Photos | Puppies | Shop
For Your Breed | Video
(The above is taken from the American Kennel Club offical Tibetan Terrier Standard page along
with important links at the AKC web site)
Non-Sporting Group
The Tibetan Terrier evolved over many centuries, surviving in Tibet's extreme
climate and difficult terrain. The breed developed a protective double coat,
compact size, unique foot construction, and great agility. The Tibetan Terrier
served as a steadfast, devoted companion in all of his owner's endeavors.
General Appearance
The Tibetan Terrier is a medium-sized dog, profusely coated, of powerful build,
and square in proportion. A fall of hair covers the eyes and foreface. The
well-feathered tail curls up and falls forward over the back. The feet are large,
flat, and round in shape producing a snowshoe effect that provides traction. The
Tibetan Terrier is well balanced and capable of both strong and efficient
movement. The Tibetan Terrier is shown as naturally as possible.
Head
Skull--Medium length neither broad nor coarse. The length from the eye to the
tip of the nose is equal to the length from eye to the occiput. The skull narrows
slightly from ear to eye. It is not domed but not absolutely flat between the ears.
The head is well furnished with long hair, falling forward over the eyes and
foreface. The cheekbones are curved but not so overdeveloped as to bulge.
Muzzle--The lower jaw has a small amount of beard. Stop--There is marked
stop but not exaggerated. Nose--Black. Teeth--White, strong and evenly placed.
There is a distinct curve in the jaws between the canines. A tight scissors bite, a
tight reverse scissors bite or a level bite are equally acceptable. A slightly
undershot bite is acceptable.
Eyes-- Large, set fairly wide apart, dark brown and may appear black in color,
neither prominent nor sunken. Eye rims are dark in color. Ears--Pendant, falling
not too close to the head, heavily feathered with a "V" shaped leather
proportionate to the head.
Faults--Weak pointed muzzle. Any color other than a black nose. Overshot bite
or a very undershot bite or a wry mouth. Long narrow head. Lack of fall over
the eyes and foreface.
Neck and Body
Neck-- Length proportionate to the body and head. Body--Compact, square and
strong, capable of both speed and endurance. Topline--The back is level in
motion. Chest--Heavily furnished. The brisket extends downward to the top of
the elbow in the mature Tibetan Terrier. Ribs--The body is well ribbed up and
never cloddy or coarse. The rib cage is not too wide across the chest and
narrows slightly to permit the forelegs to work free at the sides. Loin--Slightly
arched. Tail--Medium length, heavily furnished, set on fairly high and falls
forward over the back, may curl to either side. There may be a kink near the tip.
Forequarters
Shoulders--Sloping, well muscled and well laid back. Legs--Straight and strong
when viewed from the front. Heavily furnished. The vertical distance from the
withers to the elbow equals the distance from the elbows to the ground.
Feet--The feet of the Tibetan Terrier are unique in form among dogs. They are
large, flat, and round in shape producing a snowshoe effect that provides
traction. The pads are thick and strong. They are heavily furnished with hair
between the toes and pads. Hair between the toes and pads may be trimmed
level with the underside of the pads for health reasons. The dog should stand
well down on its pads. Dewclaws--May be removed.
Hindquarters
Legs--Well furnished, with well bent stifles and the hind legs are slightly longer
than the forelegs. Thighs--Relatively broad and well muscled. Hocks--Low set
and turn neither in nor out. Feet--Same as forefeet. Dewclaws May be removed.
Coat
Double coat. Undercoat is soft and woolly. Outer coat is profuse and fine but
never silky or woolly. May be wavy or straight. Coat is long but should not
hang to the ground. When standing on a hard surface an area of light should be
seen under the dog. The coat of puppies is shorter, single and often has a softer
texture than that of adults. A natural part is often present over the neck and
back. Fault--Lack of double coat in adults. Sculpturing, scissoring, stripping or
shaving are totally contrary to breed type and are serious faults.
Color
Any color or combination of colors including white are acceptable to the breed.
There are no preferred colors or combinations of colors.
Gait
The Tibetan Terrier has a free, effortless stride with good reach in front and
flexibility in the rear allowing full extension. When gaiting the hind legs should
go neither inside nor outside the front legs but should move on the same track
approaching single tracking when the dog is moved at a fast trot. The dog with
the correct foot and leg construction moves with elasticity and drive indicating
that the dog is capable of great agility as well as endurance.
Size
Average weight is 20 to 24 pounds, but the weight range may be 18 to 30
pounds. Proportion of weight to height is far more important than specific
weight and should reflect a well-balanced square dog. The average height in
dogs is 15 to 16 inches, bitches slightly smaller. The length, measured from the
point of shoulder to the root of tail, is equal to the height measured from the
highest point of the withers to the ground. Faults--Any height above 17 inches
or below 14 inches.
Temperament
The Tibetan Terrier is highly intelligent, sensitive, loyal, devoted and
affectionate. The breed may be cautious or reserved. Fault--Extreme shyness.
Approved March 10, 1987
Tibetan Terrier Links
Colors and Markings | Did You Know? | History | Photos | Puppies | Shop
For Your Breed | Video
(The above is taken from the American Kennel Club offical Tibetan Terrier Standard page along
with important links at the AKC web site)
