It seems that pet photography can be found at almost every corner of the Internet highway. But once in a while, amidst all the “lolcats” and slobbery dogs, you’ll run across a photo of one of our furry friends that is unusual or remarkable in some way. Or in this case, enormously unusual . . .
Giant Tibetan mastiff (source: imgur; click for larger image)
At first glance, this Tibetan mastiff may resemble a grizzly bear without ears, but this giant shaggy creature is actually a dog, believe it or not. Looking like about two of its owner in size, the large dog has a long reddish coat reminiscent of a lion’s mane (one variety of this breed is actually called “Lion Head”). Though not a true mastiff, the ancient breed is often considered a type Himalayan mountain dog since it originated among the nomadic cultures of Central Asia as a hardy guard dog. Today, Tibetan mastiffs bred in the West can weigh up to 180 pounds and still are, as you might guess, formidable guard dogs.
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the story really MISSED the point it was used in an article in the NY Times that explained the fad has passed in China and Tibetan Mastiffs are now sold off to slaughter houses to be sold as food.
Brushing all that hair must be quite a task…
Gossh what a pet!! Its hybrid :p