Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan Spaniel or Tibbie has a life expectancy of 15 years.
Origin
The Tibetan Spaniel emerged in the Himalayan mountains of Tibet more than 2000 years ago. The Tibetan Spaniel lived alongside Tibetan monks and lamas who held them in high regard. They treasured the Tibetan Spaniel as both a companion and watch dog. Although small, the Tibetan Spaniel was relied upon to watch over the monastery and sound the alarm when trouble approached.
Tibetan Spaniels were never sold and given only as gifts. They were continually presented to Chinese royalty and other Buddhist countries.
Size
The Tibetan Spaniel weighs 9 to 15 pounds and measures 10 inches.
Grooming Needs
The Tibetan Spaniel has a soft double coat with fairly long hair. The Tibetan Spaniel typically sheds lightly year round, but may blow their coat in the spring or summer if living in a warmer climate.
The Tibetan Spaniel should be brushed once a week and bathed every six to eight weeks. Like all dogs, the Tibetan Spaniel also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Tibetan Spaniel is charming and caring.
Temperament
The Tibetan Spaniel thrives on human companionship and attention. The Tibetan Spaniel loves to be loved by their family and is happy to give and receive affection. They like to go wherever their family goes and enjoy an adventure.
The Tibetan Spaniel also has a unique gift for sensing and responding to the mood of others. They are happy to play, but also content to just lounge around or cuddle.
The Tibetan Spaniel was bred to be both a companion and a watchdog. Although small, the Tibetan Spaniel makes a great watchdog and has no problem going up against a much bigger dog. With new people, the Tibetan Spaniel is wary and sometimes shy. Given enough time, however, the Tibetan Spaniel tends to warm up to strangers.
Training Needs
The Tibetan Spaniel is smart, but tends to bore easily. The Tibetan Spaniel responds best to short, varied training sessions.
Activity Level
The Tibetan Spaniel would rather lay around the house than exercise. However, for their health, the Tibetan Spaniel does need a daily walk and regular playtime in the house or outside in a secure area.
