History

The Tibetan Spaniel is known as one of the oldest small dogs. The living area of this dog race lies originally in Darjeeling, India and in the adjacent parts of Tibet, as well as in the surroundings of Lhasa.

In Tibet these small dogs were mainly kept in the rural community. Only the most beautiful and smallest dogs found their way as a present to the convents and the dogs are called  "prayer dogs". This denomination relies on a legend that they were trained by the Buddhist monks to twist the prayer wheels.

The role of house dog and watch dog  is typical for this extremely alert dog during the centuries. Moreover the dog is very much appreciated, with its easily maintain, silky hairy coat, its lively, living character, very much appreciated. With unknown people they react as a rule slightly distantly, but once they know the new visitors they will accept them as a part of the family.

The Tibetan Spaniel can reach a high age. Because it is a healthy, natural race, the dogs remain often cheerful to an age of approximately 15 years.

External appearance

The Tibetan Spaniel is an elegant small dog with a soft hairy coat. The dog is at the tip of the ears and at the back of the limbs strongly covered with hair. The neck collar is strongly developed and the tail is carried curled over the back.

The height at withers is approximately 25.4 cm; the weight lies between 4.1 and 6.8 kilogramme. All colours and colour combinations are permitted with this race. The most attentive colour is however gold.



Care and education

The Tibetan Spaniel is easily to be cared: brush the coat regularly and check then also the ears.

The dog is not difficult to educate; he or she understands rapidly what you mean. Remain, however, consequent, because a Tibetan Spaniel can spaniel be very self conceited.

The dog is nice for children and can get along well with other animals in the house, especially if they have been used to them from their childhood.

The dogs do not need a lot of movement: three times a day a walk and besides some running and playing in the garden or in a park, will keep the dog in a good condition.