Originally found in China's Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, the Tibetan Mastiff is among the world's oldest and rarest large dog breeds. It has been listed as a second-class protected animal in China. According to records, there were Tibetan Mastiffs living in cold alpine regions over 3,000m above sea level such as the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau as well as in the Central Asian plains some 2,000 years ago. After long term exposure to the harsh conditions of high altitude environment, the Tibetan Mastiff has extremely strong cold resisting ability and can still fall asleep in the ice and snow when the temperature drops to -30 to -40 centi degree.

The Tibetan Mastiff is called “Heavenly Dog” in Tibet. For Tibetans, the dog is their loyal and reliable guardian dog. It is the only breed that fears no ferocious animals. It’s been honored as “the king of dogs”. In pastoral areas, a Tibetan Mastiff is able to guard as many as 400 goats and an adult mastiff can beat three wild wolves at the same time. In Tibet, there are numerous legends about Tibetan Mastiffs’ heroic deeds of protecting their masters. In ancient times, the Tibetan Mastiff was not only an excellent helper for the nomads, but also the best guard for the king and tribal leaders. Families having a Tibetan Mastiff treat it like their own child.

Since the 19th century, Tibetan Mastiffs have been successively transported to the British royal family via Nepal or India. The lion-like figure and majestic look of the dog are highly praised. It is nicknamed “divine dog of the orient”. The Tibetan Mastiff has played an essential role in the improvement of many prestigious breeds in the world, such as Saint Bernard dog that has blood lineage with the Tibetan Mastiff.