Tibetan Mastiffs, or Tibetan Dogos, hold the (dubious) privilege of being the most expensive dogs in the world. In China, there is a genuine craze for these dogs, especially among the country’s new rich, an emerging and somewhat extravagant class capable of all kinds of ostentatious displays. Even paying two million euros for one of these mastiffs. This earned the person in question and their new dog a world record: that of the most expensive dog in the world.
Tibetan Mastiffs originate from Tibet, and theirs is one of the oldest breeds. Traditionally, they have been guard dogs because of their colossal size (they can weigh up to seventy kilos), their strength, their character forged over the centuries, their loyalty and ferocity. So much so that, at a Chinese zoo, an attempt was made to pass one of these dogs off as a lion, as you can read here. But putting the anecdotes aside, in the Himalayas, shepherds still rely on Tibetan Mastiffs to guard their flocks. And many others are the “custodians” of Tibetan monasteries.
However, over the last decade, Tibetan Mastiffs have become a status symbol. In China, they are considered “luxury items”. The legends and myths surrounding this breed, as well as its cultural heritage, have increased interest in them. And a genuine industry has developed around Tibetan Mastiffs. A very powerful industry that generates between 250 and 330 million dollars a year.
There is no real legislation governing the Tibetan Mastiff business in China. Prices are not regulated. Therefore, a dog can be worth whatever someone is willing to pay for it. It is a matter of supply and demand. With everything that implies. And with the danger this may pose to the dogs.
Outside Asia, Tibetan Mastiffs are not very widespread. We may not even see one in person in our entire lives. But we did not want to miss the opportunity to tell you about these extraordinary dogs and their situation. Because we love pets. Both those that are nearby and those that are far away. And we are concerned that they may become consumer goods, luxury items subject to passing trends.
If you want to learn more about this subject, don't miss this report produced by Vice China.
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