Origin: Tibet
Origin of Name: Tibetan Spaniels are a social breed that needs regular contact with their humans.
Size | Temperament | Shedding | Drooling | Monthly keeping cost | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Small | Zero High |
Negligible Hair Everywhere |
Zero Excess |
|
Respect for animals holds a special place in Eastern belief and legend. In that spirit, Buddhist monks played a major role in promoting and preserving Tibet's native dog breeds. The monks held the Tibbis primarily as companions, but also as sentinels, who worked closely with their cousin, the Tibetan Mastiff. Tibby was the visionary sentinel who sat atop the monastery's walls and scanned the horizon for a friend or foe. And they undoubtedly made favorable bed warmers on those subzero Himalayan nights.
Whether show or pet, the Tibetan spaniel is a natural breed that does not require trimming except for the hair under its feet for cleaning. The area behind the ears goes to the mat and must be combed frequently, but otherwise the coat of the breed does not do the mat. Regular brushing and bathing will keep the coat in good condition, as well as attention to the back edges, which can be regularly combed. Tibetan sheds spaniels, and can shed a good one at any time of the year. Bathing and conditioning can help at this time. If the tibbi is taken to the groom, they should be advised not to cut hair on the abdomen or between the legs. Many grooms regularly make "sanitary cuts" until the owner advises them. If a sanitary cut is made, the Tibetan spaniels will lick and itch badly. Nails should be bitten in the form of puppies, Tibbi should be trained to practice nail biting on a regular basis. They can be very bad about their nails unless worked quickly.
Tibetan spaniels are smart and eager to please, and can excel in canine activities such as agility, scent work, rally and obedience. However, they have a very independent mind, and will decide what they will do and when, so training requires an early start, and should be a fun and enjoyable time. Socialization is also necessary in puppyism.
Daily walks are always enjoyable for a Tibetan spaniel. They are just as happy lying around the house as they are doing long runs in the yard. A fenced yard is a must. They are a great breed for owners who want a dog to go on long walks or jogging with them, as they are able to be with their human companions.
Tibetan spaniels should perform well on high quality dog food, whether manufactured commercially or prepared at home with the supervision and approval of your vet. Any diet should be appropriate for the dog's age (puppy, adult, or senior), and if feeding dry food, the breed prefers a small bite kibble. Some dogs are at risk of being overweight, so watch your dog's calorie consumption and weight levels. Treatment training can be an important aid, but giving too much can lead to obesity. Know which human foods are safe for dogs and which are not. Contact your vet if you have any concerns about your dog's weight or diet. Clean, fresh water must be available at all times.
Tibetan spaniels are a relatively health breed, and responsible breeders examine their stock for health conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy (a genetic eye disease); ""Cherry Eye,"" an inflammation of the tissue adjacent to the eye that is often surgically corrected; And patellar laxation. Before moving to their new homes, puppies should be screened for portosystemic shunt (liver shunt), in which blood flow and / or through the liver is affected.
Recommended health tests from the National Breed Club: