Are Tibetan Mastiffs protective of their flock due to devotion and love for them?
When seeing a Tibetan Mastiff pounce into action when defending its flock, one may conclude that the dog has developed a bond between the livestock under its watch. Sound very heroic. But the truth is that the Tibetan Mastiff guards the livestock because they belong to their owner. There isn’t much bonding that goes around.
The livestock would also need to be in a fenced area for the instinct of this breed is to be more of a property guardian and less of a livestock one. These dogs would rather spend their time laying down on the porch or patio and even the couch as it would simply respond to any intrusion or threats as it comes in the restricted area. So you expect these dogs to be ever so watchful and staying on guard as the livestock sleeps, then guess again. But if its property you need guarded, then these dogs are perfect.
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I agree that the dogs are generally protecting their territory and whatever belongs to their owners within that territory. But they do not need fences to define “territory” for them. Which is a good thing because there are very few fences on the Tibetan Plateau even now.
And they may *look* as if they’re sleeping soundly on “the porch or patio” – or out on the snowbanks in my pastures, but they are always ready to leap into action if they need to. You would not be well-advised to try to sneak into my pastures or yards!