Tibetan Mastiffs hold the (dubious) privilege of being the most expensive dogs in the world. In China, there is a real craze for these dogs, especially among the country's new rich, an emerging and somewhat extravagant class, capable of all kinds of ostentation. This includes paying two million euros for one of these mastiffs. Which led the person in question and their new dog to break a world record: that of the most expensive dog in the world.
Tibetan Mastiffs are native to Tibet and theirs is one of the oldest breeds. Traditionally, they have been guard dogs due to their colossal size (they can weigh up to seventy kilograms), their strength, their character forged over centuries, their loyalty, and their ferocity. So much so that a Chinese zoo tried to pass off one of these dogs as a lion, as you can read here. But anecdotes aside, in the Himalayas, shepherds still use Tibetan Mastiffs to guard their flocks. And many others are the "guardians" of Tibetan monasteries.
However, in 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 real industry has developed around Tibetan Mastiffs. A very powerful industry that generates between 250 and 330 million dollars a year.
It is undeniable that Tibetan Mastiffs are beautiful and impressive. But within this breed, there are "different levels". And some specimens are worth more than others. In this sense, the coat (the thicker, denser, and softer, the better), the thickness of their legs, their weight, and their height determine the price that can be paid for a Tibetan Mastiff. If their head resembles that of a lion, the figures skyrocket. In addition, in the case of dogs, the larger their offspring, the more they are worth. Hence, in breeding kennels, dogs do not mate naturally, but artificial insemination is performed to ensure extensive offspring (and for the business to continue growing).
There is hardly any legislation in the Tibetan Mastiff business in China. Prices are not regulated. So a dog can be worth whatever someone is willing to pay for it. It's all about supply and demand. With all that entails. And with the danger it can pose for the dogs.
Outside of Asia, the presence of Tibetan Mastiffs is not very widespread. We may never even see one in person in our entire lives. But we didn't want to miss the opportunity to tell you about these extraordinary dogs and their situation. Because we love pets. Both those nearby and those far away. And we are concerned that they are becoming consumer goods, luxury items, subject to trends.
If you want to know more about this topic, don't miss this report by Vice China.
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