<b>History:</> Dogs were highly prized in ancient Tibet, and were often given as gifts to royal houses. This practice spread dogs through Asia, and because breeding was not particularly discriminate, the Tibetan Spaniel is thought to be related to many other Oriental breeds, including the Chin and the Pekingese. Depictions of dogs similar to the Tibetan Spaniel have been found on Chinese bronzes from as early as 1100 BC. The Tibetan Spaniel was a companion and watchdog at Tibetan monasteries, sitting on the high walls and barking at any sign of intruders. The dog also reportedly turned the prayer wheels for his masters. Today's Tibetan Spaniel still likes to sit in high places to watch over his surroundings. The Tibetan Spaniel first was brought to England in the late 1800's. The breed received official AKC recognition in 1984. Now the Tibetan Spaniel is a popular companion and show dog.
<b>Description:</> A small dog that looks rather like a Pekingese, but with a slightly longer face, less profuse coat and no extra skin around the eyes. He is somewhat longer than tall. The dog should carry himself proudly. The top of the head is slightly rounded, and the medium length muzzle is blunt. The expressive oval eyes are dark brown and the nose should be black. A slightly undershot bite is preferred. The Tibetan Spaniel has a plumed tail curling over his back, feathered pendant ears and a soft, silky medium-length coat. The neck sports a mane of longer hair. The coat comes in many shades: gold, cream, fawn, red, white, black, and black-and-tan. May be solid, multicolor or shaded. This breed should have small hare-feet.
<b>Notes:</> Usually gets along well with other animals. Not prone to any major health problems. May overheat or have respiratory problems because of his short face. The Tibetan Spaniel is slow to mature and lives a long time. Females tend to come into heat only once a year. Litters tend to be small, averaging about three to six puppies per litter. The adult's long coat develops by the time the pup is five or six months old. Once a year, the coat comes out in clumps.
<b>Personality:</> Perky and happy. Very smart and trusting. Sweet and loving to his family, aloof with strangers. Protective of his family, and especially of children. A good watchdog who will bark at intruders and strange happenings. Not yappy. Rather insistent and willful at times.
<b>Behavior:</>
<C>Children:</C> Best with older, considerate children.
<C>Friendliness:</C> Moderately protective.
<C>Trainability:</C> Slightly difficult to train.
<C>Independence:</C> Fairly independent.
<C>Dominance:</C> High.
<C>Other Pets:</C> Generally good with other pets.
<C>Combativeness:</C> Not generally dog-aggressive.
<C>Noise:</C> Likes to bark.
<b>Grooming and Physical Needs:</>
<C>Grooming:</C> Regular grooming needed.
<C>Trimming & Stripping:</C> No trimming or stripping needed.
<C>Coat:</C> Feathered coat.
<C>Shedding:</C> Average shedder.
<C>Exercise:</C> Moderate exercise needed.
<C>Jogging:</C> A good jogging companion.
<C>Indoors:</C> Relatively inactive indoors.
<C>Apartments:</C> Good for apartment living.
<C>Outdoor Space:</C> Does all right without a yard.
<C>Climate:</C> Does well in most climates.
<C>Owner:</C> Good for novice owners.
<C>Longevity:</C> Moderately long lived (12 to 15 years).
<b>Talents:</> watchdog, agility, and performing tricks.
<b>For More Information:</>
Call the AKC Breeder Referral Hotline: 1-900-407-PUPS for the name of a breeder referral representative in your area. Cost is 99 cents per minute.
<b>Photo Caption:</> TIBETAN SPANIEL
Photo copyright: Cook PhoDOGraphy 1995. All rights reserved.
