How to Groom a Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiffs are massive, well-built animals with a mild-mannered temperament. People have traditionally used this breed as watchdogs, and they are definitely well-suited to the task, being very loyal and protective. Tibetan Mastiffs are also strongly territorial and alert when strangers are around. They have very thick, dense coats of medium length. Grooming is generally low maintenance, except during shedding, when their coats require frequent brushing.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pin brushes
• Natural bristle brushes
• Metal combs

1. Brush out the coat regularly with pin brushes, natural bristle brushes and metal combs. A Tibetan Mastiff has an extremely thick and bushy double coat which can become tangled and matted easily if you don't care for it. It becomes especially thick in the winter and requires more care. Your dog may shed over a four week period in the Spring and Summer. While shedding heavily, brush her for a minimum of 30 minutes per day.

2. Check the dog's ears regularly for infections and to make sure nothing is stuck in them. Clean them frequently.

3. Clip nails frequently to prevent splaying.

4. Bathe only when necessary. Tibetan Mastiffs are naturally clean and don't have a canine odor.

Tips & Warnings

• The coat is always straight and somewhat coarse on the top. The undercoat is softer but about the same length.
• This is a good breed for those suffering from allergies.
• The coat of the Tibetan Mastiff has many different color combinations. They can be plain black, black and tan, different shades of gold, light gray and light brown.
• Avoid feeding your dog foods that contain soy and chemical byproducts. Give them foods that have lots of vitamin E.
• Tibetan Mastiffs are susceptible to hip dysplasia, skin conditions, thyroid problems, ear infections and an unusual genetic problem called Canine Inherited Demyelinative Neuropathy (CIDN). CIDN is undetectable through tests. If you wish to use your dog for breeding, ask the person from whom you purchases yours if CIDN runs in the family line.

[rick210]

on 6/17/2008 I too have mastiff dogs and i foond your article very informative , getting my dog anywhere near a bath tub is nearly impossible so i tend to do this in the garden , all your tips and hints are worth a good mention,regards Eric Salson http://mastiffdogssite.com/the-brazilian-mastiff.html