Tibetan Mastiffs are a quiet, independent, and protective breed by nature. They are loving, and adoring and have a reserved character makes them great family dogs. Their protectiveness makes them even better sheepdog. But without proper training, they can be dangerous.
Since TM dogs are so defensive, they can become triggered by the slightest sign of intruding. They are also very aggressive and upon attacking another animal, they render it lifeless. While this is protectiveness, chasing other animals is not safe. So read on how to train your Tibetan mastiff to not chase wild animals.
The Glorious Breed
Often dubbed the strongest dog breed, the Tibetan Mastiff was bred by Tibetan nomads to guard the ancient monasteries in Tibet. Word of their protectiveness spread, and they were bred across the Himalayan region to guard the mountains and plateaus.
These giants are double coated with thick wool-like fur as their undercoat and coarse hair on the surface. Their height ranges from 2 feet on four legs but almost as tall as 6 feet on their hind legs! The gentle giants can weigh anywhere from 120-150 pounds, depending on their gender.
A Friend or Foe?
The Tibetan Mastiffs are an aloof breed. While they are not exactly how their imposing and intimidating appearance may indicate, they are not golden retrievers either.
The T Mastiffs are fiercely protective of their flock, and the signature guarding trait can sometimes become a problem. You see, this breed is so watchful that just a suggestion of an intruder may tick it off. Be it another animal or a human. Its suspicion of strangers can become so extreme that it may risk the safety of the suspect and the dog.
If living with a family, this dog needs to be on constant training and observation, so they don’t act out. Because they are a large breed, keeping them in control can be challenging for the parent.
If you live outdoors and have a Tibetan Mastiff as a guard dog, they will protect your property diligently. But even if it is an unsuspecting wanderer from the wild, or a stranger stumbling on to your property, the TM may chase or attack them, out of their protectiveness. Again, you can check out Animal Vivid to learn more about animal behavior!
This can backfire, as wild animals roam in packs and can return with more members to avenge a chasing episode or an attack on their kinfolk. This can be dangerous for not just your dog but you and your family. Thankfully by properly training your big boy, you can avoid these episodes.
Train Your Tibetan Mastiff Not to Chase Wild Animals
It is important to train your Tibetan Mastiff not to chase wild animals, as it may not just threaten them but you as well. So follow these tips on training:
- Distract them. All dogs have their favorite toys or things, and they use a toy or a stick to divert their attention from chasing.
- Call out to them. There is nobody your Tibetan Mastiff will obey more than you. So when they are attempting to chase, call out to them with an affectionate tone.
- Socialize from a young age. Start when your dogs are young, and get them to spend time with other dogs and people. Take them out on walks and familiarize them with the surroundings.
- Don’t let them out so much. Frequent walks and playdates are fine but limit your mastiff’s access to the woods and wildlife. Also, don’t let them out in the dark; clean up their feces in the yard and feed them indoors.
- Reward good behavior. There is nothing that works better with dogs than some good old treats. So every time your mastiff listens to you or retreats from chasing, give them a treat and use affirming words.
Things to Remember
- Never yell, hit or abuse your TM dog, as they can get even more triggered by these behaviors.
- Never throw or run after a wild animal, as your dog may consider this an attack, setting off their aggression.
- Be patient. Training a T Mastiff will require extra patience and tolerance because they are such a unique breed.
- If you are a first-time dog paw-rent and are fascinated by the breed, do not get it. They are not suitable for novice paw-rents at all.
Conclusion
Tibetan Mastiffs are an exotic and special breed, they need extra TLC. Unfortunately, they are misunderstood, with inexperienced owners and trainers painting them in a bad light. If you have a TM dog, we hope you picked up tips and tricks on how to train your big boy to not chase wild animals. Happy paw-renting!
FAQs
1. How do I Train My Tibetan Mastiff to be More Affectionate with Children?
As mentioned above, starting your mastiffs young when socializing with children is essential. This will allow your children and dog to develop a fantastic bond growing up and create a safe environment for them. Also, you should teach your children to love and be compassionate towards the dog. Getting your children habituated to your dog and vice versa is essential, but don’t force any interaction upon them. You should always supervise their time together and ensure that your children are not causing discomfort or pain to your dog.
2. How do I Groom My Tibetan Mastiff?
Tibetan Mastiffs have a double coat with an undercoat of thick wooly hair and an overcoat of coarse hair. Daily grooming twice a day with an undercoat raking brush and a regular brush will do a good job of maintaining its shedding. Use a gentle, non-irritating shampoo for bathing them and toweling dry halfway before switching to blow drying. The TM dogs should be given a bath monthly along with necessary de-shedding and flea treatments. They blow their undercoat once a year, which can be a little overwhelming since it is their thickest layer. So use the undercoat raker more frequently around this time.
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