Tibetan Mastiff Characteristics
Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years
Adult weight: 90 – 130 lbs.
Adult height: 26 – 28 in.
Origin – Tibet
The term Mastiff itself indicates that the Tibetan Mastiff is a large dog breed, as this term is used for all large dogs. This breed was designed to sustain the high temperatures and altitudes of the Himalayas. This dog is also built to survive the tough conditions of the mountains as well, making ‘Tibetan Mountain Dog’ its second name.
This breed was developed as a protector of the Buddhist monasteries and monks of Tibet from the wilderness of bears, wolves, and snow leopards. It is said that the Great Pyrenees, Bernese Mountain Dog, Leonberger, Rottweiler, and Saint Bernard, are all descendants of this breed as they show similar physical characteristics.
Temperament-wise, this is a highly protective dog breed that could bark throughout the night at unknown objects and people if left outside. Given its history, they would not thrive in apartment-living conditions. Their size can be very intimidating to most people, and having small kids around them can be a risk. It is one of the world’s largest and rarest dog breeds in the world. Overall, this dog is a wonderful breed to have at home.
What is the price of a Tibetan Mastiff?
This is not just a normal dog that you will spot multiple times when going for a run in the park. This breed is one of the luxurious ones that traces back to the Chinese nobility. The rarity and purity of their bloodline make them one of the most expensive dog breeds in the world. This breed also holds the world record for being the most expensive dog ever sold – ‘Big Splash’ a red Tibetan Mastiff from China was sold for a whopping $1.5 million.
Buying this dog is not going to be as simple as placing an order and getting it home delivered. The breeders of this dog make sure that the dog is going to a deserving family as there is a lot of planning and effort that goes into the breeding. Knowing this, let us now see the lifetime costs of owning one.
Adoption: $500 – $1800
Buying a Tibetan Mastiff is not going to be a cheap affair as it holds a place upon the most expensive breed around the world. The price of a Tibetan Mastiff could range from $2000-$6000 for an average puppy. But a Chinese Tibetan Mastiff can be priced up to as high as $12,000 for a top bloodline. There are certain factors that can affect the price like coat color, age, gender, and breeder’s reputation. A red Tibetan Mastiff’s price can be in the range of $2500-$10,000. A Black Tibetan Mastiff could cost less given the comparatively higher supply.
It is not necessary for you to go to a breeder and buy one. Given the high cost of this breed, it may be a good idea to go and adopt one from a rescue shelter. There is one dedicated shelter for TMs in the US called Tibetan Mastiff Rescue Inc. You can contact them or other similar shelters where you can find these huge dogs at a fractional cost. These dogs would be protective, loving, and affectionate irrespective of where you get them from.
Monthly costs for a Tibetan Mastiff
Diets: $100-$120
It is normal to think that a dog of this size would eat a lot of food from a larger-than-average bowl! But to the surprise of everyone, this breed needs as much food as any other large breed would; which is around 3-4 cups per day. Cost-wise, you could expect the monthly expenditure to be around $100-$120.
Grooming: $30-$40
The big-fluffy coat of these Tibetan dogs would need regular brushing and occasional bathing, but this dog breed does not shed a lot. However, their long coats can fall prey to ticks and fleas. Usually, owners outsource the grooming to professionals. 1 session in 2-3 months would typically suffice and could cost $60-$80 for each session. If you decide to groom your dog at home, you would need nail clippers, shampoos, and brushes, among some other items, and it could cost around $50-$70.
Medical Costs: $150-$300
It is important for you to take your Tibetan Mountain dog to the vet at least 3 times in the first year for routine check-ups. Each visit could cost you around $150-$300, depending on the type of tests needed and the type of medical facility you use.
Like all breeds, Tibetan Mastiffs are at risk of developing health conditions during their lifetime. The most common health problems that these dogs may face include elbow or hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and entropion. The treatment costs could be-
His Dysplasia - $2000-$3000
Hypothyroidism - $1800-$2500
Entropion - $1000-$1800
One-time costs for a Tibetan Mountain Dog
Initial Costs: $500-$600
A biiiggg dog like a Tibetan Mastiff, would need biiiggg things. These could include a big bed, big crate, leashes and collars, food and water bowls, poop bags, poop scooper, toys, a first aid kit, etc. These could cost you around $500-$600. Make sure you get good, sturdy toys and chewies, as their massive jaws are capable of destroying them easily.
Microchipping: $60-$80
These dogs don’t typically plan to run away, but it would be advised to microchip them to help avoid any risks of losing them. On average, the cost of microchipping with registration costs around $60-$80.
Vaccines: $200-$250
Reputable breeders and shelters typically administer the basic vaccines before you bring your dog home. If not, a basic round, including rabies, canine parvo, and distemper, would cost around $150-$200. You can opt for additional vaccines like Lyme disease and Leptospirosis, which would cost an additional $25-$30 each.
Miscellaneous: $200-$250
Dog walking, dog sitting, trips, park visits, etc., are expenses that you cannot estimate at the start, as you can’t say how many times you will visit parks or take your dog on a trip. You should plan to keep around $200-$250 aside every year for these expenses, depending on your needs.
Lifetime Tibetan Mastiff Cost
A total initial cost of around $600-$800, adoption or buying cost of $2000-$5000, monthly expenses $200-$250, i.e., $3000 for a year which, if we multiply by the average lifespan of 12 years, would be equal to $36,000; all of this in total would make the Tibetan Mastiff cost in the range of $38,000-$40,000.
How can Spot Pet Insurance help?
Spot Pet Insurance plans cover the eligible costs of microchip implantation, exam fees for covered conditions, and other treatments and diagnostics prescribed for covered conditions. Coverage can be used for eligible care from any licensed specialist or vet in the US or Canada. For an additional cost, Spot Dog Insurance plans offer preventive care coverage to help cover the cost of spaying and neutering and certain vaccinations and annual wellness tests. You can view the add-on preventive care coverage options. Get in touch with us to know more!
Conclusion
Tibetan Mastiff, the giant protector and fluff ball, is a wonderful, loving, and affectionate pet to have. It is one of the most expensive and rare dog breeds on this planet. When you own one of these and walk around in the park, it would almost be impossible for people not to notice you. Spot plans can help you cover the cost of your eligible vet bills so that you can worry less. So, go ahead and get your living teddy bear home!
Happy Parenting to you, and Lots of Love to your Pup!
Creative manager by day, pet enthusiast all the time! After 19 years with my dog (hopefully he wins the award for oldest pet in the world), I enjoy spending my days brainstorming tail-wagging content, and sniffing out the latest trends in the pet world.
