Tibetan Kyi Apso

Coat and looks how to spot one

heavy double coat, rough to wiry

A thick, weatherproof double coat with a coarse top layer, shaggiest over the eyes and face, which gives the dog its bearded look. The soft undercoat has traditionally been combed out and used as wool.1

Personality what they are like

An independent, clever and watchful guardian with plenty of energy. It is naturally reserved with people it does not know and takes its protective role seriously, so it suits experienced owners. It moves with a distinctive rolling gait and has a deep voice.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The dense coat benefits from regular brushing, especially when the undercoat is being shed.1

Home where they are happiest

A working livestock and property guardian adapted to cold, high-altitude country; it needs space and a securely fenced area.1

The story where it all began

A traditional guardian of herds and camps on the Tibetan Plateau, largely unknown in the West until a photograph with a dog of the 13th Dalai Lama appeared in 1937. Western visitors met the type in Nepal in the 1970s, and a handful of dogs reached the United States in the 1990s, which led to a breed club.1

Recognised by the official bits

Major kennel clubs

Not recognised by any major kennel club; a breed club was formed in the United States after dogs were imported in the 1990s.1