Alternate Names
Little Lions
Tibbie
Appearance:
Body: Small, backline is level, and ribs are well-sprung.
Coat: Double-coated with a smooth, flat and silky outer coat.
Color: Fawn, cream, golden, black and tan, red, white, black or any combination of these and other colors.
Ears: Medium size, Pendant, set high, and well feathered.
Eyes: Medium size, oval, dark brown with black rims, and wide set; expressively bright.
Feet: Small, neat, and hare-footed.
Head: Proportionately small, slightly domed skull, slight stop, blunt muzzle, and black nose.
Neck: Short, strong, and well set into the shoulders.
Legs: Forelegs are slightly bowed, firm at the shoulders. Hindquarters are strong with straight legs, moderate angulations, well-developed stifles, and well let down hocks.
Size:
Height is 9 – 10 inches
Weight is 9 – 15 pounds
Tail: High set, well-plumed and carried upward and curled over the back.
Behavior
Recommended for Novice dog handlers.
Good with other animals.
Adaptable to urban and country living conditions.
The Tibetan Spaniel was originally used by the Buddhist Monks in the Himalayan Mountains to act as companions and to warm their beds on cold winter nights.
The Tibbie is an affectionate, happy, spirited dog who loves playing and being a part of the family activities. He is cat-like in his fanatical cleaning habits, in learning to open doors with his paws, and in his ability to climb and perch in high places, such as windowsills and the backs of furniture. A quiet dog, he will only bark when alerting you of visitors.
This is not a kennel dog, he loves and needs the comforts of home, such as a nice warm bed to sleep in, and will gladly cuddle up on his owners lap. He is a family dog who needs daily companionship and human contact.
AKC Standard says, “The Tibetan Spaniel possess a unique personality, described by many as cat-like. The breed is known to be extremely intelligent, sweet-natured, affectionate, family-oriented, and very trusting of other dogs and people.”
Tibbies have a sensitive personality and should not be taunted or ridiculed in play or in training. Because of his small size he can be easily injured by being dropped, stepped on, or roll onto in bed. Be sure young toddlers are supervised until they learn how to properly handle him.
Breed Type
AKC Group: Non-Sporting
Originally used in monasteries for companionship and to warm the monks beds.
Care and Grooming
Exercise: Moderate exercise such as a walk around the block and some play time will keep him happy.
Grooming: Brush one to two times weekly; daily during shedding season.
Bath every three to four weeks. Keep ear canals clean and dry. Wipe eyes with a soft cloth or cotton swab dipped in warm water.
Health
Life Expectancy: 13 – 14 Years
Possible problems:
Allergies
Cherry Eye – protrusion of a tear gland as a result of a loose eyelid.
Liver Shunt – blood bypasses the liver.
Luxating Patella – dislocation of the knee cap.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy – can lead to blindness.
Weeping Eye
Recommended Certificates:
CERF – for the eyes
OFA – for the hips and elbows.
Country of Origin
Tibet – originated in the Himalayan Mountains.