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Originating in the Himalayan mountains of Tibet, the Tibetan Spaniel has been known for over 2,000 years. Bred and owned by Buddhist monks and lamas, "Tibbies" were never sold. They left the monasteries of Tibet only as treasured gifts to esteemed friends.
Legend has it that the Tibetan Spaniels were used to turn the prayer wheels in the monasteries. Although this legend is doubted, they did serve the monks as companions and bed warmers. With their keen sight and hearing, the Tibbies acted as lookouts, lying on the high monestary walls and barking, warning the monks and larger Tibetan Mastiffs whenever anything approached.
Tibetan Spaniels are small, well-balanced dogs measuring about 10 inches at the shoulder. They are alert, intelligent, and do not bark excessively or unnecessarily. Although small, they are quite sturdy, good with other pets and children. However, because of their size, care should be taken when being handled by smaller children.
Like all Tibetan breeds, Tibbies have a double coat — a soft undercoat for warmth and a moderately long, silky outercoat which lies flat.
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Health Issues:
Like all breeds of dogs, the Tibetan Spaniel may be prone to certain illnesses, the Health Issues document outlines some of the health concerns found in this breed.
If you are considering the adoption of a Tibetan Spaniel puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
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Breed Standards
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AKC TIBETAN SPANIEL VIDEO
17 Min. Video Edition, Published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com
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Grooming Information:
- Grooming — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes tips, articles and information covering all aspects of dog grooming along with a listing of Groomers from across Canada.
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Training Resources:
- Training — For information on training your Tibetan Spaniel, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
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Additional Information:
- Tibetan Spaniel Network — The source for Tibetan Spaniel breed history and breed-related information — The number one Internet resource for Tibbie owners around the world.
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes information on several dog sports and activities as well as listings of non-breed specific clubs from across Canada. (Note: For breed specific clubs, see the Breed Clubs section.)
- Working Dogs — Dedicated to the working dog. This section includes tributes, information on various dog jobs, and listings of organizations from across Canada.
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