Are We Pushing Tibetan Mastiffs to Extinction?

Nearly a decade ago, in 2016, we went on a motorbiking trip across Ladakh. It was a fairly common sight to see what looked like a lion guarding the farmer’s crops or walking along with the sheep. In fact, seeing them was one of the highlights of my trip. Sadly, as I plan for another trip this year, I won’t be seeing many of those this time. 

Once looked upon as a respected guardian of Himalayan monasteries and nomadic tribes, the Tibetan Mastiff now faces an uncertain future.

Overbreeding for commercialization, abandonments due to migrations, and a basic change in lifestyles of tribes across the Himalayan belt, have left this mighty breed struggling for survival. Once a status symbol worth millions, today, many roam the streets as strays. Their future hangs by a thread.

Can this ancient warrior be saved before it’s too late? Let’s find out. 

The Crisis Facing Tibetan Mastiffs Today

Image Source: Wang Yan/Tibetan Mastiff

Today’s plight of the Tibetan Mastiff is nothing short of heartbreaking. Historically, in China, they were once sold for staggering amounts (like Millions-level staggering!). Clearly, the elite society was very taken by them. However, this led to mass breeding, overpopulation, and genetic disorders.  

Over time, as it happens with everything seen as a possession, the elite lost interest. Thousands of these dogs were abandoned and left to fend for themselves in harsh conditions. Feral populations exploded, which led to a major threat to local wildlife and ecosystems.

In a bid to find sustenance, many crossed over to India where they were used as herding and guarding dogs.

but even in India, over time, traditional herding and farming practices across the Himalayan regions declined reducing the demand for these once-essential livestock guardians. 

Urban laws in the cities and towns came up with stifling restrictions for large dog breeds, further limiting their living space and presence, making them impractical for many city and town dwellers. 

To make matters worse, many of these abandoned Tibetan Mastiffs roamed around unchecked. Their breeding with the local stray populations led to a new generation of feral mastiff hybrids. 

Well, their numbers aren't dwindling then, you’d ask? Unfortunately, these hybrids aren't the OG Mastiffs that were prized as protectors. These are aggressive and pose a significant threat to livestock, local wildlife, and even people. 

A Glorious Past of the Tibetan Mastiff

Image Source: Wikipedia

To understand a breed, looking into their past is a must. Over 2,000 years ago, the Tibetan Mastiff was the ultimate protector. Bred by the Qiang nomads during the Spring and Autumn Period (771–476 BCE), these formidable canines were designed for endurance, strength, and unwavering loyalty. Their thick double coats shielded them from the brutal Himalayan cold, while their deep, thunderous barks warned off intruders. In fact, their presence was synonymous with the Buddhist monks. 

Buddhism’s spread across Tibet carried with it the legend of these gorgeous canines. Monks and herders relied on them to guard sacred monasteries and vast flocks. In-fact, historical records claim they could take down multiple predators in a single confrontation. 

Their presence exuded power and their legend extended beyond the mountains. Kings and tribal leaders prized them for their might. A status symbol indeed. 

They Are Connected to Genghis Khan! 

The reach of these gorgeous kings among dogs wasn’t just limited to the Tibetan terrain. The armies of Genghis Khan and Attila the Hun took them along as war dogs. That spread their influence across Asia and Europe. In fact, the Tibetan Mastiff’s DNA seeped into other legendary, majestic breeds like the Great Pyrenees and Saint Bernard, inherently shaping the bloodlines of modern-day guardians.

But the mightier the king, the harder the fall, it is said.  

This isn’t the Mastiff's First Extinction 

The Tibetan Mastiffs nearly vanished in the 20th century. Modernization during the Cultural Revolution in China saw the systematic slaughter of these dogs. Why? Well, they were deemed ‘unnecessary’. Many were killed, and the survivors were driven out of their homes. By the mid-1900s, what was once a symbol of power became a rare sight. In stepped India.  

Is India Safeguarding the Tibetan Mastiff?

Image Source: Explore Tibet

In the recent past, India has been a second home for the breed, particularly in the Himalayan regions. Nomadic tribes and herders once relied on this breed for its unmatched guardianship against deadly predators. 

But as time passed and traditional herding declined, so did the need for these powerful dogs. As locals moved into other areas for education and an easier lifestyle, economic shifts meant fewer sheep and fewer sheep meant fewer guardian dogs.

However, thankfully for the breed, India is actually taking steps to safeguard the breed. Conservationists and responsible breeders are working to preserve their genetic diversity and promote adoption over commercial breeding. 

Efforts are also underway to manage feral populations scientifically, preventing them from disrupting native wildlife. Stricter policies on breeding and ownership are being proposed to curb reckless commercialization that has led to the breed’s suffering.  

Can We Save This Ancient Breed?

The short answer is, yes. The long answer is also yes, but we can't do it without relentless, dedicated effort.

The Tibetan Mastiff’s journey is one of awe, tragedy, and resilience. From legendary protectors to abandoned warriors, their fate now rests in our hands. Conservation groups worldwide are pushing for stricter breeding regulations, responsible ownership, and better awareness about the breed’s needs.

India, in particular, has the opportunity to play a crucial role in their survival. By preserving their role in Himalayan culture and ensuring their ethical breeding, the nation can help restore the legacy of these once-mighty guardians. The government is, in fact, looking to integrate these majestic beings into the armed and police forces.