Tibetan Spaniel

Overview of Tibetan Spaniels

Tibetan Spaniels are a relatively health breed, and responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions which include progressive retinal atrophy (a genetic eye disease);  “cherry eye,” an inflammation of tissue adjacent to the eye that often is corrected surgically; and patellar luxation.

The Tibetan Spaniel is considered by most accounts to be an ancient dog breed dating back as early as 1100 BC.  Dogs that resembled the breed were found in Eastern art long before the current era and were also seen on carved jade pieces around 1644 AD. 

Tibetan Spaniels are a little bit difficult to train, due to the fact that they own an independent mind, and if they do not feel like listening, they will not.That is why Tibetan Spaniel puppies must begin their training and socialization since day 1.

Tibetan Spaniels are affectionate and protective of children, but because they’re small, they can be injured easily by rough handling, so they’re best suited to homes with children who are at least 6 years old and know to be gentle and not to tease.

The Tibetan Spaniel is considered a watchdog due to its seemency to bark to defend itself, especially as its small size means it may be easily intimidated by other dogs and try to appear fearless when it’s actually afraid.

Tibetan Spaniels are a fewtimes bought without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering.

Tibetan Spaniels are described as being stubborn or sensitive dogs, both of which require a reward-based approach to training using motivational tools which include treats and favorite toys.

Tibetan Spaniel temperament, personality, training, behavior, pros and cons, advice, and information, by Michele Welton, Dog Trainer, Behavioral Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books

Tibetan Spaniels are the perfect small dog – gay, active, not nervous, very companionable, a good watch dog, healthy, and extremely intelligent – what more could you wish?

Tibetan spaniel, English foxhound, Otterhound, American foxhound, Greyhound, Harrier, Parson Russel terrier, Wirehaired pointing griffon

Allergies

Additionally, the shape of a Tibetan Spaniel’s face makes it prone to a common cosmetic condition called weeping eye.Like many breeds of dog, Tibetan Spaniels are susceptible to allergies.They can also experience cherry eye, a prolapsed third eyelid.

Barking

Legend has it that the Tibetan Spaniel used to keep watch all along the Great Wall of China at different positions, using their loud, alert barking to have suspicious activity.These dogs have a very specific trait that especially stands out among other dogs and that is the fact that they love to be at the highest altitude possible.They love to be able to feel the breeze and be able to see over anything and everything in their field of vision.

Breed

Coat

Their coat colors may be:There is no breed standard for the color of the Tibetan Spaniel, so no colors have been “bred out.” There is such a variety of coat colors and color combinations that you are sure the find the color you are looking for in this breed.

Energy

Genetic Predispositions

At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Little Lion looking and feeling her best.This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Tibetan Spaniels.This information helps you and us together plan for your pet’s unique medical needs.You will know what to watch for, and we will all feel better knowing that we’re taking the best possible care of your pal.

Grooming

Their double coat does well with weekly brushings, and these dog breeds do shed seasonally.Their hair does not mat very much, except for behind the ears.This dog is unique, in that the Tibetan Spaniel does not actually require a ton of grooming, even though their coats tend to be longer.Tibetan Spaniels are generally healthy, as well, but some important medical screenings they should have include ophthalmologist and patella examinations.

Health

Actually, it is kind of difficult to find a good breeder if you feel like buying a Tibetan Spaniel puppy.Hopefully, you will be able to contact a good breeder.If you finally found one, then do not forget to visit the place the Tibetan Spaniel was in to make sure that it has received high-quality breeding and that it is in good health conditions.This breed is, indeed, small in number.This can be because Tibetan Spaniels are an old dog breed and it can be difficult to find a pure breed dog.However, nowadays there are many websites that can help you and give you important information.Tibetan Spaniels are relatively rare.

Infections

Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, herage, and other factors.Tibetan Spaniels are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections—the same ones that all dogs can get—such as parvo, rabies, and distemper.

Life expectancy

Any Questions?Considering it is said they come from the “roof of the world,” it is perhaps not so surprising that the Tibetan Spaniel is such a healthy specimen, with a life expectancy well above average, often up to 15 years.

Obesity

Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk.It is a serious disease that may causeor worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease.Obesity can be a significant health problem in Tibetan Spaniels.She’ll feel better, and so will you!Though it’s tempting to give your pal food when she looks at you with those soulful eyes, you can “love her to death” with leftover people food and doggie treats.

Personality

The Tibetan Spaniel really does live up to its features, a ‘lions mane’ surrounds the neck and their larger than life personality definitely suits this.The Tibetan Spaniel really does live up to its features, a ‘lions mane’ surrounds the neck and their larger than life personality definitely suits this.

Social

Bear in mind that obedience training should utilize food and praise and notice that they are sensitive for harsh words and should not be treated in a rough way.Do not let much time pass before you start doing it because otherwise, they will turn stubborn and headstrong and they will not acknowledge you as the Alfa of the household.Maybe, you will have to spend a lot of time before they can learn any tricks, but later, it will be worth it.The good side of this is that Tibetan Spaniels are smart dogs and can learn quickly, so this can easily turn into an enjoyable activity for you.

Temperament

To choose the right stud you must take into consideration that it must be free of genetic faults and also, it should have a good temperament, because it will be more likely to produce Tibetan Spaniels puppies with a similar temperament.

Training

One breeder says ‘If a Tibetan Spaniel does what you want it to do then it is a happy coincidence!’ This may merely indicate that the breeders need to use better training techniques.Tibetans are difficult to train and may not be suitable for someone who expects instant and complete obedience from their pet.

What will training look like?

Training the Tibetan Spaniel should be moderately easy if you have experience as it is smart and enjoys spending time with you.However if you are not experienced with training dogs it may prove to a little harder than that as it is independent and can be stubborn.Expect results to be a gradual process and establish straight away that you are the boss not it.When you set rules make sure you and it stick to them and never bend them.Treats are a good way to motivate it, offer it praise and encouragement too but still be firm and consistent.Make sure the training sessions are short and keep them interesting so it does not get distracted or bored.

Do “Tibbie’s” shed or cause allergies?

“Tibbie’s” shed lightly year around. To minimize shedding it is best to keep them on a regular, consistent grooming schedule. Typically, before bringing a Tibetan Spaniel into your home if you have allergies, you should spend some time around this breed to make sure you do not have a reaction.

What are common problems in a Tibbie?

Fortunately, Tibbie’s have been able to maintain their status as healthy, hardy little dogs. Some health issues (although rare) are PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) (a genetic eye disease that causes blindness over time), PSS ((Portosystemic Shunt) a genetic abnormality that affects the blood flow through the liver)), Cherry Eye (inflammation of the third eyelid), and patellar luxation (a loose knee).

Are “Tibbie’s” good with children?

Although Tibetan Spaniels are affectionate toward and protective of children, they’re better suited for homes with older children because they can be injured during rough play.

Do they require a lot of grooming?

Tibetan Spaniels do require consistent grooming. As a young dog, it is imperative that you get the dog used to regular grooming. A full brush out 2 to 3 times a week is best with baths every 1 to 2 weeks. Never brush a dry coat, always lightly mist with a hydrating spray. This is a breed that requires their caring owner to stay on top of routine maintenance.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? ??

The Tibetan Spaniel is a perfect pet option for families with or without kids.Their patience and fun-loving nature tend to mingle well with the energy and curiosity levels of toddlers and young kids.They will even sit quietly with a crying baby to help soothe them.These dogs enjoy the companionship of teens and adults too.They don’t like to spend much time alone, so the house shouldn’t be empty all day long.At least one family member should be around most of the time.

Food & Diet Requirements ??

These little dogs don’t eat much food, so the food that they do eat should be made of high-quality ingredients.Your Tibetan Spaniel will likely eat less than 1 cup of food each day, so every bite counts.In addition to making sure that your dog’s food is free of artificial ingredients and fillers like corn and soy, you should choose a food that is formulated specifically for small breed dogs like the Tibetan Spaniel, as their nutritional needs are a bit different than the needs of larger breeds.

Are Tibetan Spaniels Good With Children?

Tibetan Spaniels make great playmates for children however, it is important that play is supervised.This is because a child can easily injure your pooch accidentally due to their small size.

What’s the Price of Tibetan Spaniel Puppies?

There is no set cost for Tibetan Spaniel puppies.The price depends on many things, including lineage, pedigree, and even the quality and location of the breeder.You can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to more than $4,000 for your new pup, depending on the qualities you are looking for.The most important thing to keep in mind when buying a Tibetan Spaniel is the puppy’s health.

Training ??

Even though Tibetan Spaniels come from lives in the monastery, they need training just like any other dog.Obedience training should start early during puppyhood and should continue through adulthood to ensure a well-balanced, well-behaved dog.Tibetan Spaniels are naturally low key, so their training doesn’t have to be as in-depth or persistent as training for a high-energy Labrador Retriever would be.You should have no problem training your Tibetan Spaniel to come, sit, and stay.

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Exercise ??

Tibetan Spaniels aren’t as active as many other breeds, and they may seem perfectly content spending all their time lounging around in the house.But without exercise and brain stimulation, your dog could become destructive due to boredom and a lack of having a job.These dogs should be walked daily, even if just around the block.If you are running low on time or the weather is bad and you can’t get outside for a walk, you can teach your dog to use your treadmill for exercise.

How active is the Tibetan Spaniel?

While it is playful and lively its indoor play time can go towards its activity needs and it is really only slightly active.Being small too those needs are easy to meet even for owners who are not active themselves.Along with playtime you should take for a short walk or two a day.With that it does not need a yard though if living in an apartment be ware of that barking.Leaving it on its own in the yard is not the same as seeing it gets enough exercise, it needs interaction with you too.If there is a yard make sure it is well fenced in being small means it can get through small gaps.

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Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?

This purebred dog can get along with other animals, but they need to be socialized and trained before they are introduced to other dogs or cats.They aren’t particularly interested in living with other animals, but they do enjoy the occasional trip to the dog park or visit with a friend’s pet.Still, they can be introduced as puppies to a family with other pets and learn how to get along well with the furry family members over time.

Are Tibetan Spaniels Good With Strangers?

This breed is often quiet and reserved when coming around strangers, but they should not show aggression nor will they try to bite.

Grooming ??

This purebred dog sheds moderately throughout the year, but daily brushing or combing will keep the fur from ending up on your floor at home.Their fur is long enough to get knotty, and mats could develop without daily grooming.Bathing is acceptable but should be done only occasionally to maintain proper oil levels in the skin.Their nails may need to be trimmed a few times a year, depending on their daily activity level.Their ears should be wiped clean regularly to prevent wax buildup.

How Does Tibetan Spaniel behave Around Strangers?

Tibetan Spaniel can be aloof of strangers but with good interaction from an early age, they will get along well with them.So, socialization with different people is necessary so that they do not behave shy and reserved around them.With proper socialization, they become friends with them and become welcoming of them.

Are Tibetan Spaniels Good With Kids?

Although the Tibetan Spaniel has a playful personality that is perfect for children, their small size, unfortunately, makes them vulnerable to injury.Young toddlers who do not know how to treat an animal may accidentally hurt them while playing.That’s why it’s recommended that the child be old enough to handle and respect a household pet.

Are Tibetan Spaniels Ok With Other Dogs?

Generally, Tibbie’s get on fine with other dogs and household pets.They do have a stubborn streak so it may be best to socialize them with terrier type breeds whilst they are puppies.

What Makes Tibetan Spaniel Aggressive?

The Tibetan Spaniel is not an aggressive dog by nature but is a very friendly dog.They do not show their aggression unless they are provoked and teased unnecessarily.Other than that they are not known to be aggressive at all.

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Health Conditions ??

The Tibetan Spaniel is generally a healthy dog with a long life to look forward to.However, there are a couple of health conditions they are prone to that you should know about.

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How is the Tibetan Spaniel with children and other animals?

When around children with socialization and when raised with them it is playful and lively and affectionate towards them.It is even protective and will watch over them and is better than most toy or small dogs.However because of its size it gets injured very easily if not handled carefully and for that reason it is best with children older than at least six.Teach children how to approach and stroke dogs and how to be especially careful when it is a small dog like the Tibbie.In general it gets alone very well with other animals and other dogs too.It likes to have another dog as a friend in the home and can even live with cats.

What if I have a show dog?

Whether you have a show dog or a companion dog, the same basic care is given regarding nutrition, socialization, and hygiene. The difference is the grooming maintenance and conditioning for the show ring. It is always helpful if your breeder is willing to help mentor you to lead you in the right direction upon entering the show ring. A great place to start is with the national breed club like the Tibetan Spaniel Club of America, wp.tsca.

Is Tibetan Spaniel Child-Friendly?

Tibetan Spaniel is very friendly with children which also enjoy their company.They love playing with them all day long as they adore them.Although they are a friendly dog, they can be too enthusiastic for small kids and toddlers.

History of Tibetan Spaniels

In 1853, Admiral Commodore Perry gave Queen Victoria a pair of chin after his warships visited Japan.

In 1930 the Indian Kennel Club changed the name of the breed to Tibetan Terrier.

In 1947, after several successful breedings and importations, the breed began to recover in England.

In 1947, the breed grew in number, and by 1958, the Tibetan Spaniel Association was founded.

In 1947, though, the breed grew in number again in England.

In 1956 Dr.

In 1958 the Tibetan Spaniel Association was begun and then it received recognition from the Kennel Club of England in 1960.

In 1958, The Tibetan Spaniel Association was formed and in 1960 England’s Kennel Club recognized the breed.

In 1971, the Tibetan Spaniel Club of America was founded with 14 charter members.

In 1984, the breed had been recognized by the American Kennel Club.

In 1984, the Tibetan Spaniel was officially recognized by the AKC.

In 1984, the Tibetan Spaniel was officially recognized by the AKC. 

In the 1890s, the Tibetan Spaniel appeared in England but was not bred until the 1920s.

In the 1920s, Dr.

In the 1930s, it was introduced again and breeding continued.

In the 1960s, the Tibetan Spaniel arrived in the United States.