Tibetan Spaniel
Other names: Tibbie, Simkhyi

The Tibetan Spaniel is a small, charming little dog with a big personality. Despite his tiny stature, this is a confident and assertive breed. Remarkably intelligent for a small dog, highly social, and very affectionate towards his owners, the Tibetan Spaniel makes an interesting and loving pet. His little legs don't require much exercise, making him a perfect companion dog for people living less active lifestyles.
Key facts about the Tibetan Spaniel
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Origins and history
The Tibetan Spaniel was a popular companion dog for the Buddhist monks of Nepal. As relations between China and Nepal began to develop, the two countries would send dogs as gifts. Once in China, the Tibetan Spaniel became a popular choice for leading feudal families. It wasn't until the late 19th century that the West started paying attention to the Tibetan, and the Tibetan Spaniel was brought to Britain by missionaries. By 1971, the Tibetan Spaniel Club of America had 14 separate charters, and its popularity has been growing ever since.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 9 - Companion and Toy Dogs
Section
Section 5 : Tibetan breeds
Physical characteristics of the Tibetan Spaniel
Adult size
Female : Between 10 and 10 in
Male : Between 10 and 10 in
Weight
Female : Between 9 and 13 lb
Male : Between 9 and 13 lb
Coat colour
All colours and mixtures are possible.
Type of coat
A short silky undercoat with a medium length thin topcoat.
Eye colour
Dark brown.
Description
The Tibetan Spaniel is a small, active dog with an alert expression and a springy gait. He has a small head, short legs, and a long body for a dog of his size. He has expressive oval eyes, medium-sized, pendulous and fringed ears. He has a high set tail and fluffy patches of fur around the legs and chest.
Good to know
He was also called Tibetan prayer dog, because the monks, during the winter, carried these little dogs under their tunics and used them to turn the prayer wheels.
Temperament
Behaviour of the Tibetan Spaniel
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Compatibility
Price
The average cost of a Tibetan Spaniel is between £700 for Non KC Registered dogs, and £900 for KC Registered dogs. Looking after a dog of this size typically costs between £50 to £80 a month, including food, medical/insurance, and incidental expenses.
Grooming
His long, silky coat requires frequent brushing and the occasional wash. His ears should be monitored and cleaned regularly to prevent infection.
Shedding
Shedding is moderate but intensifies during the seasonal moults, when brushing should be daily.
Nutrition of the Tibetan Spaniel
A Tibetan Spaniel requires around 1-2 small cups of high-quality dog food each day. One meal a day is enough, preferably in the evening to promote better digestion.
Health of the Tibetan Spaniel
Life expectancy
The Tibetan Spaniel is a healthy breed with an average life expectancy of around 13 years.
Strong / robust
This small, fragile-looking dog is actually quite solid and enjoys longevity and good overall health.
Withstand heat
During hot weather, care should be taken to offer this little dog fresh water at will and a spot in the shade to rest.
Withstand cold
The Tibetan Spaniel must not live outdoors because he can suffer in severe weather. He is above all an indoor dog that appreciates comfort.
Tendency to put on weight
It’s really important that you don’t overfeed the Tibetan Spaniel. Their slight frames were not designed to support heavy loads.
Common illnesses
- Retinal Atrophy Disorder
- Weepy eye
- Liver disease
- Dislocation of the patella
- Kidney stones