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Tibetan spaniel

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog tibetan spaniel!

Here, you will find all the useful information about tibetan spaniel. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.

Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.

Overall description of the breed

Despite its British patronage, the Tibetan Spaniel's ancestral origins come from Asia, particularly the mountainous regions of Tibet in China. This courageous little dog has common origins with the Pekingese, the Lhasa Apso and the Shih Tzu, and some specialists have been able to trace its presence among humans back more than 2000 years. Legend has it that they accompanied Tibetan monks to the many Buddhist temples to ensure their safety.

Imported into the UK by British traders in the late 19th century, they were an immediate success in dog shows, but far from being used as temple guardians or alarm dogs in Europe, they were used exclusively as companion dogs, competing in countless beauty contests across the continent.

The Tibetan Spaniel made its appearance in the United States in the 1960's where it was welcomed with great enthusiasm, more than ten years later, in 1971, the American AKC registry registered it definitively, in the meantime the International Cynological Federation officially recognized it on August 22, 1961. The last update of the official standard in force was published on March 18, 2015.

The Tibetan Spaniel is a small dog with a balanced morphology, harmonious lines and an elegant appearance. Its round head is carried proudly and gives it great presence. Its body is slightly longer than it is tall, it fits into a rectangle, its topline is straight, its back is rather broad in proportion to its small size, with well sprung ribs and a well developed chest.

His rounded skull and short muzzle give him a pretty face, with ears broad at the base, drooping forward and covered with long, fine hair. His almond-shaped eyes are bright, his stop is discreetly marked. The coat of the Tibetan Spaniel is long, glossy, lying flat over the whole length of the body, with a silky texture, however the coat should not be too abundant. This surface coat is associated with a fine, dense undercoat, with feathering on the neck and on the upper part of the lower legs. All coat colours or shades are permitted by the breed standard.

The calm character of the Tibetan Spaniel is one of its main characteristics, peaceful in all circumstances, it is never very far from its owners, even if it retains an independent temperament in everyday life. Jovial by nature, he is a willing companion, fond of playful activity and who greatly appreciates spending time with his family. Despite its apparent tranquility, it remains attentive to its environment, its intelligence and vivacity may surprise you.

At ease both indoors and outdoors, they are tender, calm and serene companions who never become agitated for no good reason. Good alerters, Tibetan Spaniels show a certain distrust of strangers, so they will warn you vigorously of any unusual situation. Faithful, loyal and energetic, this is an animal full of mischief that will not fail to show you affection, so if you are looking for an active and pleasant little family dog, the Tibetan Spaniel is definitely for you.

Adult: The Tibetan Spaniel will weigh 8.8-15.4 lbs, with a height at the withers of approximately 9.8".

Origins

The Tibetan Spaniel, also known as Tibetan Spaniel, originates from the mountainous regions of Tibet. This ancient breed was mainly bred in Buddhist monasteries, where it served as a companion and guard dog. Monks appreciated these dogs for their vigilance and loyalty, using them to monitor the monasteries and warn of intruders. Tibetan Spaniels were also exchanged as prestigious gifts between monasteries and dignitaries, contributing to their spread.

History

The history of the Tibetan Spaniel dates back several centuries, rooted in the Buddhist traditions of Tibet. These dogs were raised in monasteries for their intelligence and loyalty. Their role as guard dogs and spiritual companions was essential for the monks. From the 19th century, Western explorers introduced the Tibetan Spaniel to Europe, where it quickly gained popularity. Today, this breed is recognized for its charming character and strong connection to its spiritual heritage.

Standard

The standard of the Tibetan Spaniel describes a small, sturdy and well-proportioned dog. Males and females measure about 25 cm at the withers and weigh between 4 and 7 kg. Their coat is double, with a dense undercoat and a silky, long and straight topcoat. Coat colors can vary, including gold, sable, fawn, black and tan, and white. The head is small but proportioned, with a short muzzle and oval, dark eyes that are expressive and bright. The ears are pendant, V-shaped and well covered with hair.

Physical characteristics

The Tibetan Spaniel is a small dog measuring about 25 cm at the withers and weighing between 4 and 7 kg. It has a double coat with a dense undercoat and a long, silky topcoat. Colors can vary from golden to black and tan, as well as sand and white. The head is proportional with a short muzzle, oval and dark, expressive and bright eyes. The ears are pendant and V-shaped, well-covered with hair. The body is compact and well-muscled, with a well-furnished tail carried curled over the back.

Character

The Tibetan Spaniel is known for its charming, intelligent, and independent character. It is affectionate and devoted to its family, but also has a certain independence. It is a vigilant dog, often wary of strangers, making it a good watchdog. It is playful and cheerful, enjoying interacting with its owners. Although generally social, it can sometimes be reserved. Its balanced nature and intelligence make it a pleasant and easy companion, suitable for various living environments.

Life expectancy

The Tibetan Spaniel's life expectancy is typically 12 to 15 years. In order to ensure a long and healthy life, it is essential to provide them with a balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and a loving environment. Regular visits to the veterinarian help to quickly detect and treat any potential illness. By giving the Tibetan Spaniel continuous attention and a healthy lifestyle, owners can maximize their lifespan and ensure that they remain a happy and healthy companion.

Exercise and activity needs

The Tibetan Spaniel, although a small dog, has moderate exercise needs. He enjoys daily walks and interactive games, but does not need intensive activities to stay in shape. One to two walks a day and indoor play sessions are usually enough to keep him happy and healthy. He also enjoys stimulating activities like puzzles and intelligence games. An enriching environment and regular interactions are essential to prevent boredom and maintain his mental and physical well-being.

Recommended diet

The Tibetan Spaniel's diet should be balanced and tailored to its small size and activity level. High quality food, specially formulated for small breeds, is recommended. Portions should be monitored to avoid overweight, a common issue in small breeds. A mix of premium kibbles and fresh foods like meat, vegetables, and fruits can make up an ideal diet. Dietary needs may vary depending on the dog's age, weight, and activity level, so it is advisable to regularly consult a veterinarian to adjust its diet.

Training and obedience

The education of the Tibetan Spaniel must begin at a young age. Intelligent and eager to please, he responds well to positive and consistent training. Positive reinforcement methods, such as rewards and praise, are particularly effective for this breed. Early socialization is crucial to familiarize him with different people, animals, and environments. Patience and consistency are essential for successful training, ensuring that this dog is well-balanced, obedient, and happy.

Behavior with children

The Tibetan Spaniel is generally good with children. Its gentle and affectionate nature makes it an excellent companion for families. It tolerates children's games well and enjoys their company. However, due to its small size, it is important to supervise interactions to avoid any unintentional accidents. Teaching children to respect the dog and to be gentle with it will contribute to a harmonious and incident-free relationship. Its patience and gentleness make it a precious friend for young children.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The Tibetan Spaniel is generally sociable and gets along well with other pets, especially if properly socialized from a young age. It can peacefully coexist with other dogs and even with cats. Its gentle and friendly nature facilitates positive interactions with its peers. However, as with all dogs, proper introductions and initial supervision are recommended to ensure that interactions go smoothly. Its peaceful nature makes it adaptable to different living environments.

Grooming needs

The Tibetan Spaniel's grooming requires regular attention due to its long and silky coat. Weekly brushing is recommended to prevent knots and tangles, as well as to remove debris and dead hair. During shedding periods, more frequent brushing may be necessary. It is also important to check and clean its ears to prevent infections. Claws should be trimmed regularly, and occasional baths will help maintain a clean and healthy coat. Regular dental care is also essential to prevent oral health issues.

Health

The Tibetan Spaniel is generally a hardy breed with few major health problems. However, like all breeds, some health issues can occur. Common conditions include eye problems, luxating patellas, and respiratory issues. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and frequent veterinary visits help maintain their health. Prevention through regular care and attention to signs of illness is essential to ensure a long and healthy life.

Average price

The price of a Tibetan Spaniel puppy can vary considerably depending on several factors, including the breeder's reputation, the lineage of the parents, and the geographical region. Generally, you can expect to pay between 800 and 1,500 euros (or between 900 and 1,700 dollars) for a puppy of this breed. It is important to choose a reputable breeder who follows the breed standards and conducts necessary health tests to ensure the puppies' good health.

Expenses

The annual expenses for a Tibetan Spaniel include food, veterinary care, grooming, and various accessories. For food, you should budget around 300 to 500 euros (330 to 550 dollars) per year. Routine veterinary care, including vaccines and annual check-ups, can cost around 200 to 400 euros (220 to 440 dollars). Grooming, depending on the frequency and location, can represent an annual cost of 100 to 300 euros (110 to 330 dollars). Accessories and toys can add around 50 to 150 euros (55 to 165 dollars).

Name ideas

Choosing a name for a Tibetan Spaniel can be a fun task. For a male, "Lhassa" could reflect his Tibetan origins. "Karma" evokes Buddhist spirituality. "Sherpa" pays tribute to Himalayan guides. For a female, "Tara" is a name of a Buddhist goddess symbolizing compassion. "Yuki" means "snow" in Japanese, reminding of the mountains of Tibet. "Luna" evokes the gentleness of the moon. Other names like "Nala" for her grace, "Milo" for his gentle character, "Zen" for his serenity, and "Ruby" for her beauty are also appropriate.

Legislation and regulation

Regarding legislation and regulation, the Tibetan Spaniel is not subject to any particular prohibition. As with all dogs, it is important to comply with local laws regarding registration, vaccination, and control of pets. Owners must also ensure that their dog is well trained and socialized to avoid any problematic behavior. Rules may vary by country and region, so it is advisable to inquire with local authorities.

Official recognition

The Tibetan Spaniel is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under standard number 231. The breed is also recognized by other global cynological registers such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Kennel Club in the United Kingdom. In Tibet, the official organization responsible for this breed is the Tibetan Spaniel Club. This organization works on promoting, preserving, and improving the breed through breeding programs and exhibitions.

Pedigrees

The pedigrees of the Tibetan Spaniel are available from various breed clubs and canine registries. These documents provide detailed information about the dog's lineage, including medical history and show successes of its ancestors. In Tibet, the Tibetan Spaniel Club as well as national canine associations are primary sources for obtaining these pedigrees. These documents are essential for breeders and owners looking to understand and preserve the genetic qualities of the breed.

Destination and usage

The Tibetan Spaniel is primarily meant to be a companion dog, appreciated for its gentle and affectionate nature. Although it has roots as a guard dog in Tibetan monasteries, it excels today as a family companion. Its intelligence and playful character make it suitable for various living environments. It enjoys participating in leisure activities and can also excel in disciplines such as agility. Its small size and pleasant temperament make it an excellent dog for apartment living.

Prohibitions

To date, the Tibetan Spaniel is not subject to any specific restrictions in countries or regions around the world. However, it is crucial for owners to inquire about local legislations concerning dogs, as regulations can vary significantly from one place to another. Some regions may impose specific restrictions on the ownership of certain dog breeds or establish strict rules regarding the care and control of pets.

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