Tibetan Spaniel
Overview of the Tibetan Spaniel
Tibetan Spaniels, also known as Tibbies, have origins in the mountainous regions of Tibet, where they served as friends and watchdogs. This breed is well-known for its low-maintenance coat, intelligence, and desire to keep a watchful, protective eye on its family. Although they’re purebred dogs, they may be found at shelters or with rescue groups.
The Tibetan Spaniel is a flexible dog who may live in an apartment as long as they have sufficient daily activity and walks. As a friendly and sensitive breed, these canines yearn for company. When they don’t understand or are dissatisfied, they may bark or act out. Treating your furry friend with love and attention can make them a happy, loyal companion.
History
Tibetan Spaniels originated in Tibet, where Buddhist monks bred them to serve as sentinels. Often, Tibbies positioned themselves above the monastery’s walls to keep a sharp eye out for approaching foes and allies. When they spotted a threat, their distinctive, sonorous bark would alert their companions, Tibetan Mastiffs, who would leap into action and chase away invaders. Even now, the Tibetan Spaniel’s unique heritage is one of their most distinguishing characteristics, as they continue to make excellent watchdogs and will alert their owner when someone is at the entrance.
These dogs were kept by monks as friends and, effectively, bed warmers during the chilly Himalayan winters. The monks referred to their canines as “small lions,” not only due to their appearance but also because lions are important Buddhist emblems. These miniature lions were so valuable that they were never sold; they were only given as gifts to aristocratic or distinguished emperors, other Buddhist nations, and officials in China. If they relocated, it would be from a monastery to a castle.
As it turns out, Tibetan Spaniels aren’t actually spaniels. This part of their breed name is derived from the Middle French term epagnuel, which refers to a buddy and comfort dog. Tibbies arrived in England in the 19th century but were not bred significantly until after World War II. Late in the 1960s, these dogs came to the United States, and in 1983, the American Kennel Club recognized them as Non-Sporting dogs.
Tibetan Spaniel Traits
Appearance
Tibetan Spaniels are longer than are tall. They have lengthy tufts of fur in their ears and a small head and muzzle. Although this breed’s widely spaced eyes may give them an unusual appearance, this trait can be quite charming to some. They have long, fluffy tails, with hair developing between their toes on each paw. The breed is particularly lovely because of its double coat, which has a smooth texture and a thin density.
Tibetan Spaniels can be quite beautiful, appearing in combinations of black, cream, tan, gold, sable, red, silver-sable, and white with particolored coats. The skull of the Tibbie is proportionately small to their body size. Their dark brown, oval eyes give them distinctive facial characteristics. This affable dog has medium-sized, hanging ears and a cranium of average length and width with a little dome. The Tibbie has a somewhat short neck that is robust and well-set and appropriately spaced teeth. The shoulders are powerful and well-positioned, while the hind legs are strong and well-developed. These characteristics facilitate a swift, confident gait.
Temperament
Tibetan Spaniels might be small in stature, but their personality isn’t lacking in any way. Their attitude is frequently compared to that of a large dog with a small dog’s physique. They’re intelligent, forceful, and affectionate, craving lots of attention, so be prepared to lavish it upon them. In exchange, the Tibbie can become your greatest faithful “little lion,” as Tibetan monks term them.
Tibbies don’t require a great deal of exercise. Their tiny stature, short legs, and flat faces restrict them from being intense athletes, but they adore playing in the yard, taking walks, and even small jogs. These dogs are friendly, pleasant canines eager to obey their owner’s demands. The Tibbie, like all dogs, requires exercise to maintain good health and proper weight, given they’re especially prone to obesity. This isn’t too surprising since they find treats and food irresistible.
Extremely rarely do Tibetan Spaniels display aggression or bite. Their calm and gentle temperament makes them excellent therapy dogs; they also get along well with everyone in the household, from youngsters to cats and dogs. Not only do they resemble small lions, but Tibbies also like a fine window view, especially from atop your furniture, and groom themselves with similar dedicated attention.
Food and Health of the Tibetan Spaniel
Diet
Generally, the Tibetan Spaniel breed thrives on high-quality, nutritionally balanced commercial dog food. Consider your dog’s age and select a formula that fits its developmental stage. A diet with little kibbles is most likely to fit these diminutive pups. Your veterinarian can assist you in estimating the exact amount and frequency of feedings your Tibbie requires to suit its dietary requirements.
Obesity is an issue for these lovely canines, so you must be mindful of what you feed them. They don’t have terrific knees to begin with, so being overweight wreaks havoc on their joints and can even cause arthritis. If your dog’s weight increases, their physical health may be negatively affected. Consult your veterinarian if you have any queries about what you must be feeding your dog. They’re in the best position to assist you in making sound decisions for your Tibbie based on their specific requirements.
Training and Exercise
Exercise
The Tibetan Spaniel may even like going for a little jog, despite their small legs, but this breed is brachycephalic, which means their airways are blocked due to their face shape, making it harder to breathe. Because of this, they’re not endurance athletes.
Tibbies are toy-obsessed and would benefit greatly from access to a fenced yard in which to run and play and also soak up some sunshine. Even though the climate in Tibet can be harsh, the peaceful Tibetan Spaniel enjoys basking in the sun during their downtime.
Training and Socialization
Tibbies are intelligent and eager to please and excel at dog sports such as agility, rallying, and obedience. It’s essential to begin training at an early age to prevent the formation of negative habits. As dog breeds vary from sensitive to harsh corrections, always use positive reinforcement techniques. It’s also a good idea to make training sessions entertaining and interesting to retain your dog’s interest.
You may require additional effort to train your dog to be comfortable when left alone. Tibetan Spaniels are susceptible to anxiety issues and should be kept in a home where someone is present most of the day. Professional dog trainers can provide advice on how to overcome separation anxiety. In addition, start socializing your Tibbie as a puppy. This breed’s protective nature might make them anxious about outsiders, leading to alert barking.
Ideal Environment
The Tibetan Spaniel fits in nicely with any loving household, whether an elderly person using a wheelchair, a single person living in a small apartment in the city, or a family with space to wander in the country. They get along well with children as they are laid-back pups, but a noisy family of five or six kids might not be the best situation. They’re calm canines accustomed to a peaceful, quiet life thanks to the Tibbie’s historical breeding.
Since they enjoy an active or mellow lifestyle, both experienced and first-time dog owners can successfully raise and care for a Tibbie. The most important thing is being open to cuddles. These dogs are also excellent in the snow, but when the heat is blazing, they will seek shade or, much better, a nice breezy spot indoors under or next to an air conditioning vent.
Health Concerns of Tibetan Spaniels
The Tibetan Spaniel is a relatively healthy breed with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. But, they may be sensitive to a few hereditary issues, some of which are common in small breeds. If you are acquiring a puppy, find a reputable breeder that will provide you with health certifications for both of the puppy’s parents. Health certifications demonstrate that a dog has been tested and received a clean health certificate.
Clearances for a dog’s health are not given to canines younger than 2 years old because some health concerns do not become obvious until a dog reaches maturity. You should still be prepared to examine health certificates verifying that the eyes of your Tibetan Spaniel are normal. Although they are not typical in the breed, the following issues could arise:
Patellar Luxation
This health issue occurs when the kneecap moves in and out of its groove, to put it simply. If it’s minor, it might not cause your dog much discomfort and can be managed with painkillers and weight control. But when the pain increases, it may result in a limp or intense discomfort. Surgery can resolve the problem if it manifests.
Ocular Disorders
These include entropion, retinal dysplasia, cherry eye, and progressive retinal atrophy, a degenerative illness that can also cause blindness. When the eyelids entropion, the cornea becomes scratched and irritated as a result of the eyelashes and other hair. Surgery or a topical antibiotic ointment can be used to treat entropion. If your dog suffers from the cherry eye, it may require surgery. The other diseases are now uncurable, so ensure your breeder examines their dogs to prevent them from spreading these genes to their pups.
Portosystemic Shunt
All Tibetan Spaniels must be examined for a portosystemic shunt, which is a congenital problem. With this issue, the big vein that supplies blood to the liver has an improper relationship with other veins, allowing blood to flow around the liver. Special diets, medicines, and intravenous fluids are all possible forms of treatment for pets with this condition.
Heat Exhaustion or Heat Stroke
If a dog breed has a smaller, flat, or squashed face, they’re more likely to experience heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Hip Dysplasia
The socket joint and hip ball in your Tibbie may develop abnormalities due to this problem. An X-ray can be used to diagnose it by your veterinarian, who may recommend surgery in critical situations.
Hernia
Different types of hernias, which are the protrusion of an internal organ through an aberrant aperture, can occur in Tibetan Spaniels. Inguinal, umbilical, and scrotal hernias are the most prevalent varieties. Generally, a vet can spay or neuter your pet and treat these ailments at the same time.
Tibbies are susceptible to overheating and respiratory issues in hot temperatures. In the summer and spring, they also frequently suffer allergies.
Grooming Insights for the Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibbie has a smooth double coat that is silky on the face and forelegs and relatively long everywhere else. Longer hair covers the neck, tail, ears, and backs of the buttocks and forelegs. A Tibetan Spaniel’s fur can be of any hue or color combination.
Regular brushing will keep your Tibbie’s coat free of stray hairs. Expect them to shed small amounts throughout the year, with a bigger shedding once or twice a year. Bathe them as necessary, usually every six to eight weeks.
Nail maintenance and dental hygiene are extra grooming requirements. At least twice or thrice each week, brush your Tibbie’s teeth to remove tartar and the bacteria it harbors. Daily brushing is recommended. If your dog’s nails can be heard clicking on the floor, they are excessively long. As needed, trim their nails once or twice a month with caution to avoid hurting or damaging them. Your dog’s feet will remain in good shape, the carpet won’t be torn up, and your legs won’t be scratched when your pet jumps up to greet you.
You should begin grooming your furry friend while they are still a puppy so they become used to the practice. If you initially make grooming a fun and rewarding experience, they will be much more receptive to veterinary checkups and other forms of handling later in life.