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Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan Spaniel is a small, alert breed with a long history as a companion animal. They are good watchdogs and family pets that require average grooming time.
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Breed Facts
Finding a Tibetan Spaniel
Physical Characteristics
- Coat: Medium-length, smooth hair on body; feathering on forelegs and ears; tail and buttocks have plumage
- Oval-shaped, dark brown eyes
- Black nose
- Fleecy ears that lay forward and flat
- Come in a variety of colors
- Height: 10 inches
- Weight: 9-15 pounds
- Average lifespan: 12-15 years
Temperament
- Kind, joyful, smart, devoted, independent, sometimes stubborn
- Interaction with people: Good family dog; good with small children
- Interaction with animals: Good with other dogs and animals
- Training: May be difficult to train
- Bark: Only vocal around strangers
- Protection: Good watchdog; protective of its human family
Medical Conditions
- Hip dysplasia
- Liver shunt
- Ophthalmic disorder (including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy)
- Patellar luxation
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- OK for apartments
- Needs daily walks
Grooming
- Average shedder
- Needs regular brushing
- Coat sheds regularly
Other Facts
- Seen in Easter art dating back to 1100 B.C. and on carved jade dating back to 1644 A.D.
- In spite of the name, this breed is not a spaniel
- Brought to the U.S. in 1965
Breed History
- Originated in Tibet
- Were companions in Monasteries
- Historically nicknamed "little lions" and given as gifts to the nobility of the Buddhist countries
- They would sit on top of monastery walls and keep watch below using their sharp eyesight and siren-like bark
- First documented breeding took place in 1965 in the U.S.
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Tibetan Spaniel Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit TSCA Rescue
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