Himalayan Sheepdog

62-84 lbs
26-32"
Nepal and India
Bhotia, Gaddi, Himachal Pradesh, Himalayan Guard Dog, Himalayan Mastiff Guard Dog

The Himalayan Sheepdog originates from Nepal and India, and is an ancient breed that cared for the welfare of stock and protected them from predators. They enjoy the outdoor life and are quite a rare dog outside of their homelands. Because they are an active dog, they are not suited to an apartment – they need room to move and explore. The Himalayan Sheepdog makes a great companion and is loyal, protective and very affectionate. This large dog tends to bond closely to one owner, but still enjoys the company of the family members. They make great guard dogs and are known for their fearless courage. They do take their role as the family protector seriously and can be aggressive and ferocious. The secret to raising a well balanced Himalayan Sheepdog is to socialise them fully when still a puppy and start training them early as to what is acceptable behavior. This strong dog needs a strong leader; they need to have respect for you as they can be quite willful and stubborn. But apart from these traits, they are a wonderful companion who will guard and protect you forever.

purpose Purpose
Guarding, Herding, Companion
history Date of Origin
Ancient Times
ancestry Ancestry
Tibetan Mastiff, Kinnaur Sheepdog of Tibet

Himalayan Sheepdog Health

Average Size
Male Himalayan Sheepdog size stats
Height: 26-32 inches Weight: 62-84 lbs
Female Himalayan Sheepdog size stats
Height: 26-32 inches Weight: 62-84 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Patellar Luxation
  • Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd)
Minor Concerns
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Arthritis
  • Canine Glaucoma
Occasional Diagnoses
  • Obesity
Occasional Tests
  • Urinalysis
  • Complete Blood Count
  • Full Physical Examination
  • Blood Chemistry
  • Complete Ophthalmologic Examination
  • Hip and Elbow X-rays

Himalayan Sheepdog Breed History

The Himalayan Sheepdog is also known as the Bhote Kukur or Bhotia, and hails from the region of Nepal. They look similar to the Tibetan Mastiff although they are smaller in stature. This solid dog was bred to guard and protect the stock, and they do it very well with their courage, aggression and determination. Born to be outdoors, they relish long meandering walks or exploring new territory. The Himalayan Sheepdog is a robust and healthy dog and is popular in their homelands as a companion dog. This unique large dog is rarely seen beyond the boundaries of India or Nepal. The exact age of the breed nor the origin has been well documented, but they are known to be an ancient breed. Local tribes in the region have used these agile and confident dogs to guard their stock against predators. They are fearless and resilient dogs, and they make great companions for the farmers. The Himalayan Sheepdog has been used to hunt large game in the wilderness, their muscular bodies and dense fur protecting them from the rough terrain and cold nights. The breed is unrecognised by any major kennel club to this date. This dog can be tough and aggressive out on the trail but are loyal and devoted to their owners. They do adapt well to family living but need plenty of training and socialising to make them friendly with strangers. As they have been bred to protect, this is perhaps only natural. But start while they are young, and you will have a lovely animal who will want to please.

Himalayan Sheepdog Breed Appearance

Big, solid, sturdy and - well - slightly daunting, is the best way to describe the Himalayan Sheepdog. A born protector of man and stock, they have a solid body that can reach up to 90 pounds and stand 28 inches in height. They are surprisingly swift on their large well padded feet, and they are quite active, always moving around to check the surroundings. A deep chest and solid neck provide the power to take on large predators, and their famous courage and devotion are legendary. The head is solid and has a pointed muzzle with a strong jaw and teeth that meet in a scissors bite. They often have a ruff of fur around their neck, and their tail is often bushy and carried high, sometimes curling up and over their back. Their folded ears flop at the side of their face and they have round, expressive eyes that are always alert. The Himalayan Sheepdog has a dense fur, a longer outer coat and a short, dense inner fur. This dog is a perfect build for the harsh surroundings and is a beautiful dog. 

Eye Color Possibilities
brown Himalayan Sheepdog eyes
Brown
amber Himalayan Sheepdog eyes
Amber
Nose Color Possibilities
black Himalayan Sheepdog nose
Black
Coat Color Possibilities
black Himalayan Sheepdog coat
Black
brown Himalayan Sheepdog coat
Brown
fawn Himalayan Sheepdog coat
Fawn
Coat Length
coat
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
coat density
pin
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
coat texture
Himalayan Sheepdog straight coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Himalayan Sheepdog Breed Maintenance

That dense fur of the Himalayan Sheepdog takes some upkeep, but it is worth it. Regular brushing will get rid of any loose hair, and the use of a special comb during hot months will remove any parasites the dog picks up on their travels. Rarely does this dog need a bath, maybe just three times a year just to keep them looking sharp. Special dog shampoo is best for the dog, as it will protect the natural oils in their coat, keeping the hair glossy and matt free. It can be quite a process to bath this dog, and you will probably be as wet as them in the end. But make sure you rub them down well and dry them off as much as you can, especially in cooler months. Training them when young to enjoy having their fur blow dried on a low setting may save you a lot of time in later years. With folded ears, it is always important to check them for signs of infection. Gently wipe the ear out to free any dirt or wax. Teeth need constant care, so twice a week give your dog's teeth a good brushing. Then a quick and gentle nail clip and your clean and fluffy Himalayan Sheepdog is ready to go

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Brushes for Himalayan Sheepdog
Pin Brush
Pin Brush
Dematter
Dematter
Deshedder
Deshedder
Nail Clipper
Nail Clipper
Brushing Frequency
fur daily fur weekly fur monthly
Himalayan Sheepdog requires weekly brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

Himalayan Sheepdog Temperament

Proud and confident, the Himalayan Sheepdog is not a dog to ignore. They can be quite territorial and will protect the home and family with aggression and courage. Training is necessary for this strong dog to teach them acceptable behavior. The Himalayan Sheepdog needs early socialising to get to know other people and pets which will enable them to relax in their company. They are intensely loyal usually to their owner but accept and love the family as well. They are born to work and need to be active. This dog is not a couch potato; they need to be checking out their territory and people to see that everything is how it should be. Born to herd, they may even try pushing or herding family members but are gentle and kind about it. They can be headstrong and independent dogs, which makes them so good at what they do. But they need a strong pack leader (you) to guide them in social skills. As puppies they are big balls of fluff with large paws, making them irresistible. They are eager to please and like to be of service. A working dog first and foremost, then after a long hard day, this dog will be keen to relax and cuddle up.

Himalayan Sheepdog Activity Requirements

The Himalayan Sheepdog is a busy dog; they love the great outdoors and have been bred to be alert and protective. This dog has high exercise requirements and needs at least two good long walks each day to keep them happy. Ideally, they are suited to a country farm but will adapt to a house with a large yard. They are not at all suited to an apartment as they are too active and behavioral problems arise when this dog is bored and inactive. They are great companions when you are out walking, and you can feel safe with this protective dog around. In populated areas, they are best on a leash, as they can be wary of strangers and other dogs. They will surprise you with their agility and affectionate ways, and they will join in family games and have a great time. But they are primarily geared towards working, so if you want a companion who will work alongside you, take instruction (training is important to achieve this) and help you on the farm, then this is the ideal dog.

Activity Level
low activity medium activity high activity
Low Medium High
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
16 miles
walk mileage
Minutes of Activity Per Day
120 minutes
activity minutes

Himalayan Sheepdog Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
3 cups
cup per day cost cup per day cost cup per day cost
Daily Cost
$1.50 - $1.90
food bowls daily cost
Monthly Cost
$39.00 - $52.00
food bag monthly cost

Himalayan Sheepdog Height & Weight

6 Months
Male Himalayan Sheepdog size stats at six months
Height: 13.5 inches Weight: 21.5 lbs
Female Himalayan Sheepdog size stats at six months
Height: 13.5 inches Weight: 21.5 lbs
12 Months
Male Himalayan Sheepdog size stats at 12 months
Height: 17.5 inches Weight: 41.0 lbs
Female Himalayan Sheepdog size stats at 12 months
Height: 17.5 inches Weight: 41.0 lbs
18 Months
Male Himalayan Sheepdog size stats at 18 months
Height: 29.0 inches Weight: 74.0 lbs
Female Himalayan Sheepdog size stats at 18 months
Height: 29.0 inches Weight: 74.0 lbs

Himalayan Sheepdog Owner Experiences

Leo
8 Weeks
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing in the snow
he is smart and good looking
2 years, 7 months ago
Jimmi
3 Months
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
They are very good kind of dogs. They have friendly nature and cool minded dogs.
2 years, 7 months ago
Arya
2 Months
3 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing ball,
Fetch
She’s a little aggressive and doesn’t trust everyone. She also keeps scratching her ears but she’s friendly after some time
2 years, 10 months ago
Milo
3 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Talking to him
Walk
Very affectionate and loyal. A bit stubborn at times. Sheds a lot of hair in summer.
2 years, 10 months ago
Sheru
9 Months
5 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Run
Best dog in himalayas
3 years ago
amazing
3 Months
5 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing
a good dog but suffered from a disease from last 1 and half month.
5 years, 6 months ago
Buddy
2 Months
5 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
A lovable cutie pie .you cant take off your eyes from them.so fluffy like dog toy.most active in grass.trainable,good gourd dog,yes he love biting.a very good growth in just one month...buddy i love you😚
5 years, 4 months ago
Jack
3 Months
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He is 3months old puppy. We love him like a child. His naughtiness, his impatient behavior for food. His puppy face while we are eating something. Today another bhotiya dog bite him while we were taking him for a walk. He is unable to move his rear leg. Vet said he is afraid that puppy's spinal cord affected and this may cause paralysis in back portion. Just praying for his good health. Already missing his mischievous. This accident made me to search everything about him and hope for his full recovery .
4 years, 7 months ago
Ginger
4 Months
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I bought him as 25 days young furball, zed black in color, first 2 months he was prone to ticks because of the place he belongs to but now he is a well groomed and very active baby..
4 years, 4 months ago
Bruce wayne
7 Months
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He marks his territory wherever I sit down and barks at passersby. But won't bark if we keep walking .. probably he marks his territory and protects me or my friends
4 years, 3 months ago
Goldie
7 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Rope game
Very energetic and attention seeker and always wants to play.
4 years, 2 months ago
DENVER
5 Months
6 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Chase
Fetch
Catch treats
Its great I love him. Lots of People think that they are not friendly with people and dogs but that's not true they are pretty friendly to both people and dogs if you train them properly. Yes they need a lot of exercise as they are very energetic. I prefer 2-3 long walks.
4 years ago
Lucy
2 Years
4 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I wish for her eternal life, sprinkling endorphin-inducing behavior to our miserable species.
3 years, 11 months ago
Sheyru
1 Year
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
hide and seek
Very exited all the day long. Tries to walk to people unknown for friendship and petting. Is scared of other street dogs(which worries me a lot). Other than that is very loveable and dramatic.
3 years, 10 months ago
Tashi
10 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Long walks, fetch
He is affectionate, strong willed and a wonderful companion
3 years, 10 months ago
Krystal
14 Years
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Go to Park
Laying in the sun
The best dog ever. Matches well with my personality! She's quiet, stubborn but fierce! Very old now, so she's a little slow but loving and loyal regardless ❤️
3 years, 8 months ago
Toughie
3 Months
5 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
It's easy to train him as he learns quickly, "I taught him sit command when he was 1 month old in just 15 minutes". The only problem with this dog is that it doesn't obeys your command everytime so rather forcing the command again and again just leave him be otherwise he'll learn that the command can be ignored.
3 years, 7 months ago
Mischief
3 Years
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
We found Mischief as a pup, while on a hike near our house in Kumaon. He followed us all the way home, and took ownership. Mischief is a great friend to kids, happy for a cuddle and a tickle, runs away into the hills when he likes and returns to a whistle. We would love to take him home to our house in the plains, but the hills are Mischief’s home. To spoil his independence is to make a slave of him.
3 years, 5 months ago
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - New pet
Question

How to train bhotiya dog plz ans

Answer
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Question - New pet
Question

I have got a 2 months 15 days old Himalayan sheepdog. Can I feed buttermilk with water, or milk with water to my puppy... He actually doesn't seem lactose intolerant to me. Right now he is going through a little cold, eyes and nose are bit watery. He recently had travelled from another city. Please help

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Question - Other
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Dog .. have you ever seen a dog that looks like this? Exactly what breed would this be?

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Question - My pet
Question

WHAT IS THE BITE FORCE OF BHOTIA DOG.

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Book me a walkiee?
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