( by Steve Layten & Sue Mechem )

Why are they called terriers?

Are they easy to train?

Are they healthy?

Are they easy to take care of?

Are they good with children? Strangers?

Show or Pet Puppy ?

Male or Female ?

What should a Breeder Give you ?

Why are they called terriers?

When the English first started to classify dogs all small dogs were called terriers. Now the Terrier (from terre meaning ground) Group is composed only of dogs bred to hunt vermin from the ground. The TT never rooted game (though some show very creative gardening instincts as they satisfy their curiosity!) nor does it have the peppery disposition associated with the true terrier. 

 

Tibetans are very quick learners and can learn to avoid doing things just as quickly as they learn how to do them - causing some owners to think their dog is slow. When training TT's one must remember they are very self-reliant and can have a very 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 found in the Tibetan Terrier. Conscientious breeders screen their stock and can explain these problems and their incidence: hip dysplasia, , hernias, progressive retinal atrophy, lens luxation and cataracts.

As with all dogs, Tibetans should have regular check-ups and yearly boosters for rabies, distemper, parvo and other contagious diseases. 

 

Are they easy to take care of?

The TT is not a particularly high energy dog; he normally adapts to the lifestyle and pace of his owners, particularly upon maturity.

The TT must be groomed on a regular basis and, to keep in good shape, this means a good twice weekly brushing. Combed, their coat protects them just as our clothes protect us; uncombed the coat becomes a unremovable wool jacket If this should unfortunately occur the only solution is to cut the coat down to the skin. Puppies shed their soft "puppy coat" while growing their adult double coat. During this "blow," which may last for several days or several weeks, they need more frequent grooming and may appear to mat up overnight. A skilled groomer can comb out the undercoat or trim a TT in a variety of cute styles but he will look very different. 

 

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 first few months of life will be more outgoing than one who did not. A TT who does not wish to socialize will normally turn his back and go off by himself. 

 

Show or Pet Puppy ?

What is the difference between a show quality and a pet quality puppy? . A pup with show potential has qualities as close to the standard set by the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC). This standard is used by the judges at dog shows and is used to determine which dogs will receive their championships. A pet quality TT (one who deviates from the standard) can be just as good a companion as a show dog. The health of a pet should be just as high quality as a show dog, as the standard judges cosmetic appearance and showmanship in the show ring. Are their differences between males and females? 

 

Male or Female ?

There is no reason to prefer males or females. TT boys are unusually loving and many even enjoy watching and caring for puppies. Neutering either gender results in better health in the long term and eliminates medical and behavioral problems associated with the reproductive cycle. 

 

What should a Breeder Give you?

What should I receive from the breeder? You should receive an up to date medical record listing all inoculation and wormings and any other medical treatment the dog has received. You should receive clear instructions on feeding and care.

Conscientious breeders can show you proof that both parents have had their hips X-rayed (OFA) upon maturity and their eyes cleared by a canine ophthalmologist (CERF) within the year before breeding.

You should receive a written contract which is designed to protect the rights of the breeder, the buyer and most of all the quality of life the dog will have.

The contract should include a bill of sale, listing the breed and breeder, the birth date, sex, colour, tattoo number or microchip identification of the puppy.

A litter registration number and/or the registered names and numbers of the parents particularly if the CKC individual registration application papers are not available at the time the puppy is ready to go to his new home.

After the breeder receives the individual dog registration application form you will be asked to sign it so you become the registered owner in the CKC’s records. This form is processed by the CKC after which you will be mailed your puppy’s registration papers.

Pets are often sold on a non- breeding agreement, a special form for dogs who are not to be shown in conformation or bred. These dog can compete in obedience, agility, fly-ball and other types of competition at CKC competitive events.

Dogs which are Canadaian Registered may be registered with the AKC in the US.

Your contract should give you a definite period of time (e.g. 72 hrs.) to have the puppy’s general health checked by your veterinarian.

A good breeder will make themselves available to you for advice, help and information for the life of the dog.