A Tibetan mastiff gave birth to 20 puppies in Lanzhou, Gansu province on Nov 12, 2012. The famous ancient breed from the Tibetan Plateau, which normally produce a litter of eight or nine at a time, were once known as ferocious dogs used by locals to watch their houses and herds, but today they also serve as domestic pets. The breed is also connected to the living Buddha in legendary stories, and the dog is also part of the traditions, culture and religion of Tibetan people. The Guinness World Record for the largest litter of dogs belongs to the mastiff breed and the current world record stands at 24. [Photo/Asianewsphoto]