Tibetan Spaniel
About Tibetan Spaniel
Imagine coming home every day to a pair of adoring eyes and a wagging tail, ready to shower you with love– that’s life with a Tibetan Spaniel! Affectionately known as '~Tibbies', these little furballs are small but mighty in personality.
Despite their compact size (just about 10 inches tall), Tibbies have the heart of a lion (they were once called little lions) and carry themselves with an air of importance. They sport a gorgeous, silky, double-layered coat that comes in a variety of colors, along with those signature expressive eyes that could melt your heart.
Tibbies are known for their clever, confident, and friendly nature. They're wonderfully adaptable, fitting in seamlessly with busy city life or tranquil suburbia. These dogs wouldn't object to an evening on the couch watching your favorite shows, nor to an adventurous hike – as long as they're with their favorite human.
While these companions are low-maintenance in terms of exercise, they do need regular brushing to keep their beautiful mane in top condition. And remember, they are clever dogs who appreciate mental stimulation, so prepare for fun puzzles and games!
Tibbies are truly unique, capable of making you laugh, offering a comforting paw, and always being there for you. They fill their role as a family dog brilliantly, providing a loving, joyful presence in any home.
Interesting Facts
Despite their name, Tibetan Spaniels are not true spaniels. The misnomer occurred due to their resemblance to the spaniel breeds brought from China to Europe in the 18th century.
In their native land of Tibet, Tibetan Spaniels were highly valued and frequently given as gifts to royal houses. They were bred as monastery dogs and used as watchdogs on the high walls of Tibetan monasteries to alert the monks of any intruders or approaching dangers.
Tibetan Spaniels have a unique ability to climb trees and walls, allowing them to make the most of their surveillance duties in ancient Tibet.
Legend has it that Tibetan Spaniels were used to turn prayer wheels for the Buddhist monks. This is likely a myth, given their small size, but they were certainly busy companions in the monastery!
The Dalai Lama is known to have had an affinity for Tibetan Spaniels. In a famous visit to the United States in 1979, the Dalai Lama was gifted a Tibetan Spaniel named Muffin, who promptly had five puppies! Now the breed is often lovingly referred to as "Tibbies" amongst its admirer communities.
Tibetan Spaniels are known for their expressive, almond-shaped eyes, which give them an intelligent and inquisitive look, reflecting their keen awareness and alertness as watchdogs.
Unlike some breeds, Tibetan Spaniels are relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming. Their silky double coat only requires weekly brushing to keep it free of tangles and looking its best.
Tibetan Spaniels are known for their cat-like independence and agility. They can often be found perching on furniture or high places, observing their surroundings with curiosity and calm.
These dogs have a strong sense of loyalty and form close bonds with their families. They thrive on companionship and can be sensitive to their owner's moods, offering comfort and affection.
Tibetan Spaniels have a heritage as companions to Buddhist monks, which has contributed to their serene and contemplative demeanor. They are often seen sitting calmly, observing the world around them.
← Scroll horizontally to see all facts →
