Tibetan Spaniels

Appearance:

Body: Small, backline is level, and ribs are well-sprung.

Coat: Double-coated with a smooth, flat and silky outer coat.

Color: Fawn, cream, golden, black and tan, red, white, black or any combination of these and other colors.

Ears: Medium size, Pendant, set high, and well feathered.

Eyes: Medium size, oval, dark brown with black rims, and wide set; expressively bright.

Feet: Small, neat, and hare-footed.

Head: Proportionately small, slightly domed skull, slight stop, blunt muzzle, and black nose.

Legs: Forelegs are slightly bowed, firm at the shoulders. Hindquarters are strong with straight legs, moderate angulations, well-developed stifles, and well let down hocks.

Neck: Short, strong, and well set into the shoulders.

Size:
Weight: 9 - 15 pounds
Height: 9 - 10 inches

Tail: High set, well-plumed and carried upward and curled over the back.

Behavior

Recommended for Novice dog handlers
Good with other animals
Adaptable to urban and country living conditions

The Tibetan Spaniel was originally used by the Buddhist Monks in the Himalayan Mountains to act as companions and to warm their beds on cold winter nights.

The Tibbie is an affectionate, happy, spirited dog who loves playing and being a part of the family activities. He is cat-like in his fanatical cleaning habits, in learning to open doors with his paws, and in his ability to climb and perch in high places, such as windowsills and the backs of furniture. A quiet dog, he will only bark when alerting you of visitors.

This is not a kennel dog, he loves and needs the comforts of home, such as a nice warm bed to sleep in, and will gladly cuddle up on his owners lap. He is a family dog who needs daily companionship and human contact.

AKC Standard says, "The Tibetan Spaniel possess a unique personality, described by many as cat-like. The breed is known to be extremely intelligent, sweet-natured, affectionate, family-oriented, and very trusting of other dogs and people."

Tibbies have a sensitive personality and should not be taunted or ridiculed in play or in training. Because of his small size he can be easily injured by being dropped, stepped on, or roll onto in bed. Be sure young toddlers are supervised until they learn how to properly handle him.

Breed Type

AKC Group: Non-Sporting

Originally used in monasteries for companionship and to warm the monks beds.

Care and Grooming

Exercise: Moderate exercise such as a walk around the block and some play time will keep him happy.

Grooming: Brush one to two times weekly; daily during shedding season.

Bath every three to four weeks. Keep ear canals clean and dry. Wipe eyes with a soft cloth or cotton swab dipped in warm water.

Health

Life Expectancy: 13 - 14 Years

Possible Problems:
Allergies
Cherry Eye - protrusion of a tear gland as a result of a loose eyelid
Liver Shunt - blood bypasses the liver
Luxating Patella - dislocation of the knee cap
Progressive Retinal Atrophy - can lead to blindness
Weeping Eye

For more information go to the Tibetan Spaniel Network

Recommended Certificates:
CERF - for the eyes
OFA - for the hips and elbows

Country of Origin

Tibet - originated in the Himalayan Mountains.