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Tibetan Mastiff 'Uncle' Adopts Dachshund Sister's Tiny Pups & It's Downright Precious

He's so gentle with them.

When you have a new baby, one of the most important things is being able to have a supportive team around you, whether that comes in the form of family, friends, or—in this case—the giant monster dog who’s toe is about the same size as your newborn.

In this video, a massive Tibetan Mastiff is the gentlest, sweetest “uncle” ever to the puppies which belong to the female Dachshund in his house.

One wouldn’t usually think such a big dog could be such close personal friends with such a tiny one, but this Tibetan Mastiff and Dachshund actually live quite happily together, in large part because the Doxie has a serious attitude and the Mastiff is a big softy. And when the Dachshund female recently had a litter of three pups, their “Uncle” was ready to step right in and lend a giant paw.

Seriously, in this video he’s cuddling them with one of his paws and all three fit inside it.

All About the Tibetan Mastiff Dog

Tibetan Mastiffs are named thusly by Europeans who found them living among the people of the Himalayas, as most large European dogs also bore the name of Mastiff. They are, however, a genetically distinct breed developed in the Himalayas. They’re an ancient breed of dog used by people in those mountains as well as the Tibetan plateau as flock guardians and security dogs, especially of Buddhist monasteries. Their thick, fluffy coats are well suited to the harsh climate, and they are prized for their loyalty, intelligence, reserve, and independence. Some say the Mastiff is more nocturnal than most dogs, which make them excellent for security purposes, and less so for a night kept free from barking.

The fur of a Tibetan Mastiff is notable for its lack of odor among dogs of its size, though it frequently sheds, including large seasonal molting. They are hardy dogs, who need plenty of exercise and space to run around in, as well. They also have a mountain-dwelling species resistance to elevation sickness. Due to their size, exercise needs, and space needs, they are not recommended for apartment life.

And despite that same size, they can be marvelously gentle creatures, and the one in this video proves.

All About the Dachshund

Dachshunds (a German word pronounced “DOX-sun”) were originally bred as hunting dogs for burrowing nominals. The name itself means “badger hound” as these animals were often sent into holes made by badgers, foxes, ferrets, minks, rabbits, or similar quarry during hunts. Today, they are commonly called sausage dogs, hot dogs, or “Doxies.”

Dachshunds are small to midsize dogs with short, stubby legs and elongated bodies. They are smart, stubborn and protective, with a sharp bark and a tendency toward aggression if not properly trained. Despite this, they remain a popular and recognizable dog breed due to their unique appearance and smaller size.

The Dachshund in this video is obviously well-trained, and what’s more, she seems to know that she and her puppies are in very safe hand with this Mastiff. It’s so great to see them together, caring for the puppies.

As they say, it takes a village. Or maybe, in this case, a pack.

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