The Tibetan mastiff is an ancient breed native to the Tibetan Plateau. It's a very large and powerful rough-coated guard dog that is known for its ferocity when defending against intruders. Tibetan mastiffs usually come in black and reddish brown colors. Adult Tibetan mastiffs can grow to 35 inches (1 meter) tall and weigh 300 lbs (140 kg.)

The Tibetan mastiffs have been a cultural staple revered in Asia. They have increasingly become a status symbol representing affluence in China. An 11-month-old red Tibetan mastiff named 'Big Splash' became the world's most expensive dog after being purchased in China for 10 million RMB ($1.5 million) on March 14, 2011.