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Tibetan Spaniel

Breed Profile

Small monastery dogs believed to be early representatives of the Tibetan Spaniel , faithfully followed their Lama masters and came to be regarded as “little Lions” due to their resemblance to the Chinese guardian lions, which in turn conferred them prestige. The Tibetan spaniel is a breed of assertive, small, smart dogs hailing from over 2,500 years ago in the Himalayan mountains of Tibet. They share ancestry with the Pekingese, Japanese Chin, Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, Tibetan Terrier and Pug.

Temperament

Blessed with extreme intelligence,  the Tibetan Spaniel is one of the most cat-like dog breeds. They are known to climb on the sofa, table, dresser, etc., to explore what is going on outside. At the same time, they can display a great deal of affection and often give their owners a ceremonious welcome, by  jumping into their lap and licking their faces.

Color & Coat

Coat: The coat consists of a silky double coat lying flat and is short and smooth on the face and leg fronts.

Color: All possible hues

Living Environment

Tibetan Spaniels are very sociable and thrive on having close contact with their folks. The Tibetan Spaniel is suitable for apartment life. Owners should be aware that it is important to socialize Tibetan Spaniels at an early age to accustom it to an array of people and situations. This breed is suitable for children and they are protective of them and their folks. Even after socialization, they tend to remain aloof with strangers. If startled or uneasy, a Tibetan Spaniel will express their distrust with loud alarm barking.

Health

Progressive retinal atrophy is a genetic disease that can occur in the breed. It is a disease, which is inherited and comes in two forms: generalized PRA and central PRA. Portosystemic shunt is an abnormal vessel that allows blood to bypass the liver, so that it is not cleansed. This rare condition in Tibetan Spaniels is often named “liver shunt”. Like many breeds of dog, Tibetan Spaniels are susceptible to allergies. They can also suffer from a cherry eye, which is a prolapsed third eyelid.