Q. Is a TT right for me?

A. They are alot of dog and NOT for everyone. New owners must be able to put in the training/socialization time required during early development. These dogs are companion dogs and need to be around their people who have the ability to correct and train and not allow them to "run the house" because they will if given the opporunity. They are not an easy breed despite their cute appearance. They are intelligent and will often decide for themselves if they want to do something despite your wishes. They get bored easily with repeated commands and do best with brief, frequent training. As with anything one must invest the time and the results will be well worth it. Tibetans are devoted, affectionate, happy dogs.

Q. Are TTs good with kids and other dogs?

A. That all depends on early socialization and the dog's temperment as a whole. Some are naturally better suited for families and others are not. You need to remember that Tibetans are very bright and most often will treat young children as littermates. Fair game for fun and folly. They need consistent, kind correction. Puppies tend to be very mouthy and this frightens young children which can escalate a situation. Be persistent, offer alternatives, give praise and you can ride through this period successfully. Personally, I will not place my puppies in homes with very young children. Older dogs are the preferred choice.

Other dogs must be introduced early and socialization should start when the puppies receive their 16 week vaccination. If you are certain a neighbor's dog or friend's dog has been vaccinated then begin earlier. Puppy kindergarten is a good start and TT's thouroughly enjoy it, this usually begins at four months. Much depends on you the new owner.

Q. Are they easy to housebreak?

A. Crate training and consistency is the key here with positive rewards and frequency. Puppies need to go often, after they nap, exercise or eat. Take them to the same spot using the same command and before you know it they will have the idea.

Q. Can I buy a pet puppy?

A. Yes, the majority of dogs bred are placed in pet homes. People assume that pet means inferior and in some cases it does. But generally speaking I provide a quality animal that I will not use in my breeding program and this for me defines a pet. Not that it is inferior but more in respect that it is not what I am looking for at the time. For this reason there is no difference in cost between a show prospect and one that is placed in a pet home.

Q. Do they shed? Will I be allergic?

A. Tibetans have a double coat. A long outer coat that is like hair and a soft undercoat that works as an insulater against cold and heat. The undercoat will shed periodically and will stay on the dog - they will mat up! You must brush and comb through the coat to get them out. They need to be groomed to keep a mat free coat. Because of this they do not shed in the typical way, i.e. all over your house and yourself, etc.

Will you be allergic depends on the person. Since the dander tends to remain in the undercoat and on the dog; people seem to be less sensitive (allergic) to a TT. The added grooming and bathing also helps in making them a better choice for an allergic person. You have to meet one to be sure if you can tolerate the dog. Everyone is different.

Q. What would you say are the greatest TT attributes?

A. Their temperament, size, appearance and adaptability! They are game for just about anything; long walks or hikes, playing in the yard, agility, or just laying about (often on the sofa).