Tibetan Spaniel

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This breed originated in Tibet. It is descended from dogs from China and other Buddhist countries.

The Tibetan Spaniel is considered an ancient breed, being that there is evidence of its existence over 2000 years ago. Most small Asian dogs are believed to be descended from the Tibbie.

Highly esteemed in ancient Tibet, they were often given as gifts to royal houses and the dogs were spread throughout Asia. Depictions of the dogs were found on early Eastern art dating back as far as 1100 BC. The dogs worked turning the prayer wheel for their masters and also as watchdogs in Tibetan monasteries.

The Tibetan Spaniel is often mistaken for the Pekingese, the differences being that the Tibetan Spaniel has a less profuse coat, slightly longer face and does not have the extra skin around the eyes. The body is somewhat longer than tall. The slightly domed head is small in proportion to the body.

The blunt muzzle is medium length without any wrinkles, and with a slight, but defined stop. The nose is black. The dark brown eyes are set well apart, oval in shape and medium in size. Teeth should meet in an undershot or level bite. The front legs are slightly bowed and the feet are hare-like.

Dewclaws are sometimes removed. The well-feathered tail is set high and carried over the back. The Silky double-coat lies flat, is short and smooth on the face and front of the legs and medium length on the body. The neck is covered in a mane of hair which is more prominent in males.

There is feathering between the toes that often hangs out over the feet. The coat comes in all colors, solid, multi-colored or shaded, including fawn, red, gold, cream, white, black and black and tan, often with white markings on the feet.

Temperament: Willful, Aloof, Assertive, Playful, Independent, Intelligent, Happy

Health Problems: Prone to respiratory problems and heatstroke.