[3][4] Historically, Tibetan Terriers were kept as good luck charms, mascots, watchdogs, herding dogs, and companions.

[6] She was given a gold and white female puppy named "Bunti" after successfully performing an operation on a patient in Tibet.

The first Tibetan Terriers in the US were imported in 1956 by Dr. Henry and Mrs. Alice Murphy of Great Falls, Virginia, from Dr. Greig's kennel, Lamleh.

The Tibetan Terrier is a powerful, medium-sized dog of square proportions, with a shaggy coat.

The length of the back should be equal to the height at the withers, giving the breed its typical square look.

One of the more unusual features of the Tibetan Terrier is their broad, flat feet with hair between the toes, which are ideal for climbing mountains, acting as natural snowshoes.

They are amiable and affectionate family dogs, sensitive to their owners, and gentle with older children if properly introduced.

The energy level of the Tibetan is moderate to high and its general nature is happy, active, lively, intelligent, and agile.

[13] A 2024 UK study found a life expectancy of 13.8 years for the breed compared to an average of 12.7 for purebreeds and 12 for crossbreeds.

Blindness and neurological signs such as epilepsy, motor abnormalities, dementia, and unexpected aggression may follow some years later.

[15] The Tibetan Terrier is one of the more commonly affected breeds for primary lens luxation which is caused by an autosomal recessive mutation of the ADAMTS17 gene.

[18] UK TV presenter Clare Balding specifically chose the breed[18] for being suitable for her wife who is allergic to pet dander.