Despite the name, the Tibetan Terrier is not a terrier at all. It developed over many centuries in Tibet as a companion and all-purpose dog for monasteries and herding families, and Europeans attached the terrier label later because of its size. Dr. Agnes Greig brought the breed to England in the 1920s, and the AKC recognized it in 1973. Its profuse double coat, fall of hair over the eyes and large, flat snowshoe feet are adaptations to a harsh mountain climate.
Tibetan Terriers tend to be loyal, sensitive and affectionate with their families, often reserved with strangers and quick to bark at anything unusual. Many are agile, playful and clever enough to be a little stubborn. Their long coat sheds little but tangles easily, so regular brushing or a practical short clip is part of life with one.