February 22nd, 2012
Emperor, an aptly named Tibetan Mastiff, sold for approximately €1.2 million last week – making him one of the world’s most expensive dogs ever.
A two-day trade show in China’s Hebei Province was the scene of the sale, where over 1000 of the massive, lion-like dogs were put up for auction. The average asking price for the ancient breed was a mere €120,000.
Considered holy in China, the Tibetan Mastiff is said to bring good fortune, health and security to its masters. Red mastiffs like Emperor are thought to be much luckier – ten times as much, it would seem. He was sold for 10 million Chinese Yuan which almost equals €1,200,000. As well as a bearer of good luck, the Tibetan Mastiff is gaining popularity as a status dog in China – a means for owners to display their wealth.
These powerful dogs were first used as watch dogs and herders by the nomadic people of Central Asia. It is said that Genghis Khan employed over 30,000 Tibetan Mastiffs in his attempt to conquer Europe. The people of Tibet especially revered these dogs as they believed that the souls of monks and nuns were reincarnated within them.
By Sinéad. Filed under Dogs, News.
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