Tibetan Spaniel Breed Information
Breed Group: Non-Sporting
Weight: 9-15 lbs
Height: 10 inches
Color(s): All colors and mixtures, white allowed on feet
Overview
Tibetan Spaniels originated in the Himalayan Mountains of Tibet over 2000 years ago. They were owned and bred by Buddhist monks and were never sold. The Tibetan Spaniels only left the monasteries as treasured gifts to esteemed and honored friends or royal houses. Considered to be one of the oldest breeds, they were used as a watchdog as well as for keeping their owner warm in extreme cold.
Character
Commonly referred to as the "Tibbie", this breed is relatively rare and primitive. The Tibetan Spaniel is active, small, and alert. They are appropriately and affectionately called "little lion" due to being tender and also tough. This Oriental breed exudes an exotic charm and makes a lovely companion.
Temperament
The Tibetan Spaniel is a highly intelligent breed and is deeply devoted to their family and friends. They thrive on human companionship, are extremely sensitive, and will respond to their owner's moods, emotions, and feelings. They do best with older, considerate, well-behaved children. This breed is generally aloof with strangers but is never aggressive. They get along very well with other pets. The Tibetan Spaniel will vigorously alert their family to any unusual event, sound, or to visitors. They are excellent watchdogs that are neither nervous nor hyper. This breed is not only a lap dog but also likes to sleep in bed with their owners. The Tibetan Spaniel likes to be up high so they are able to survey their surroundings.
Care
Tibetan Spaniels require brushing once a week. It is important to pay careful attention to the hair behind the ears as it knots quite easily. When bathing the Tibetan Spaniel a mild shampoo is recommended. They must be rinsed thoroughly of all residues to prevent dry skin that may lead to itching and scratching. They are prone to a myriad of health issues such as PRA, weeping eye, cherry eye, allergies, low tolerance to anesthesia, and hip and elbow dysplasia.
Coat
The Tibetan Spaniel is a double coat breed. The outer coat is of medium length and is silky, soft, and flat. The under coat is dense and soft in texture and provides warmth as well as protection from the sun. They have feathering on the tail, ears, and backs of legs. There is a longer mane of hair at the neck. The coat comes in a wide variety of colors such as cream, fawn, white, red, gold, black, and black and tan.
This breed is an average shedder that sheds their undercoat twice a year.
Training
The Tibetan Spaniel is independent and intelligent, but may also be stubborn. They have a tendency to think that they know more than their owner. They typically do not do well in obedience or other organized training activities. They are easily bored with repetition. This breed is very eager to please and will do anything for attention. There may be some difficulty in housebreaking them and the crate method is recommended. Early socialization is a must for the Tibetan Spaniel. Because of their sensitivity training should only be done with love, patience, praise, and consistency.
Activity
Tibetan Spaniels need daily walks and runs. They love to play outdoors and are at their best when properly exercised. It is important that they are always securely leashed and fenced. They will do okay in an apartment provided they are sufficiently exercised. If they are left alone for extended periods of time they will become bored and possibly destructive.