AMITABHA Tibetan Mastiffs

A warm welcome from Amitabha

Our names are Philip, Bronwen and Morgan and we are all very passionate and devoted to Tibetan Mastiffs, falling in love after our first encounter with this guardian of Tibet, often referred to as the “king of the dogs from the roof of the world”. We feel blessed with positive karma to be custodians of this unique, legendary breed.

Philip works as a Manager in Health, while Bronwen works in the education sector at a leading University.

Philip grew up with Cocker Spaniels in his early life. Once working, Philip welcomed Bayla (a Rottweiler being shown by his breeder) into the family. Bayla was a successful show dog from a young age, but ceased conformation showing when his breeders moved to New Zealand. Bayla’s show experience exposed Philip to dog shows, obedience and the broader world of canine anatomy, history, pedigrees and health requirements. Following Bayla’s passing and now with Bronwen, a decision was made to become more actively involved in the dog world. In 2001, after extensive research, we welcomed our first Tibetan Mastiff into our lives – our dearest Atisha - along with Sato, our loyal and faithful Akita.

So why these breeds? Both having a keen interest in Asian history and having travelled extensively throughout Asia, larger Asian breeds were those that interested us.

The loyal and protective nature of the Akita, with a similar temperament to a Rottweiler, along with its Japanese heritage, stole our interest. Sato, a multi-Best in Show Grand Champion, was a beautiful soul, and we enjoyed the 11+ years he shared with us.

Our energy was particularly drawn to the Tibetan Mastiff, considered to be one of the oldest breeds in existence today. We were captivated by this noble canine’s extreme intelligence and independent guardian nature. They are so calm and patient, and so strongly loyal to family with such a natural rapport with children that we became deeply devoted and decided that we wanted more Tibetan Mastiffs in our lives. Their eyes are the windows of their soul, so once seen, you are mesmerized for life.

Conformation dog shows and events certainly became a passion for us, having campaigned dogs to Supreme, Grand Champion and Australian champion titles. We joined the Queensland Kennel Council, one of the state’s oldest All Breeds Dog clubs in 2004, and have both held executive positions for a number of years. Morgan was born into Queensland Kennel Council membership and is now a great contributor to club events and activities. Bronwen and Morgan are also active members of Ipswich Kennel Club.

Bronwen’s involvement in conformation dog showing extends to judging, stewarding and card writing. Bronwen first become accredited as an ANKC judge in 2014 in the Utility group. She is now also accredited to judge Non-Sporting and Toy groups, and is working towards full accreditation in Working, Hound and Terrier groups currently.

We established Amitabha in 2004 after many years of interest and involvement in the breed. The name of our kennel – Amitabha – comes from the name of the revered Buddha of Tibet. Amitabha is the Buddha of Boundless or Infinite Light of the Pure Land. Amitabha had been a great King who renounced his throne to become a monk. When Amitabha realised enlightenment he became a Buddha. He then pledged to help all beings on the path to awakening. Amitabha Buddha was often depicted on an elaborate Peacock throne. Our website pays respect to the Amitabha Buddha with our use of peacock feathers and colouring.