01/Overview
The Tibetan Spaniel (or “Tibbie”) is a small, active, and alert little dog. The outline should give a well-balanced appearance, slightly longer than tall. They are a sturdy little dog, enjoy the snow and cold, and there is nothing frail or delicate about them. Tibbies are adaptable, and will be as content in a city apartment as in a large suburban or country home. This breed thrives on human companionship, and for this reason, does not make a good kennel dog. Though they can be aloof with strangers, they are affectionate and devoted to their family and friends. Tibbies are sensitive, and responsive to your moods and feelings. They are alert little watch dogs, and will announce any unusual event or arrival, although they are not considered a yappy breed.
Highlights
02/History
The Tibetan Spaniel comes to us from the Himalayan Mountains of Tibet. The Tibbie has been known for more than 2,000 years. They were bred and owned by the Buddhist monks. Their keen hearing and eyesight made them ideal lookouts, lying on the high monastery walls and barking a warning to the monks and the burly Tibetan Mastiffs on the ground anytime they saw something suspicious. Legend has it that Tibbies were trained to turn the prayer wheels in the monasteries. While this anecdote is questioned today, Tibbies did serve as companions and bed warmers. The Tibetan Spaniels were never sold. They left the monasteries of Tibet only as treasured gifts to esteemed friends.
The misnomer “spaniel” came to be part of their name from the French word “epagneul” which, in the Middle Ages, referred to a companion dog and comforter, much loved by the ladies of the European and Oriental courts. The breed first arrived in England in 1898, but few were bred until after World War II. Importation to the United States began in 1966, and the Tibetan Spaniel Club of America was formed in 1971. The American Kennel Club recognized the Tibetan Spaniel in 1984, and Tibbies joined the Non-Sporting Group.
03/Appearance
Height is about 10 inches. Weight of 9 to 15 pounds is the ideal.
Skull: Slightly domed, moderate width and length.
Eyes and Expression: Dark brown in color, oval in shape, bright and expressive, of medium size and set fairly wide apart but forward looking, giving an apelike expression.
Ears: Medium size, pendant, well feathered in the adult, and set fairly high.
Muzzle: Of medium length, blunt with cushioning, free from wrinkle. The chin should show some depth and width.
Nose: Black preferred. Faults: liver or putty-colored pigmentation.
Bite: Slightly undershot is preferred. A level bite is permissible, providing there is sufficient width and depth of chin to preserve the blunt appearance of the muzzle. Teeth should not show when the mouth is closed.
Tail: Set high, richly plumed, and carried in a gay curl over the back when moving.
Body slightly longer from the point of shoulder to root of tail than the height at the withers. Faults: long-bodied, low to the ground, leggy or square. The Breed Standard asks for “moderate bone,” neither coarse and lumbering nor fine-boned and dainty.
Texture: Double coat, silky in texture, smooth on face and front of legs, of moderate length on body but lying rather flat. Ears and back of forelegs nicely feathered, tail and buttocks well furnished with longer hair. Neck covered with a mane or “shawl” of longer hair which is more pronounced on males than females. Feathering on toes often extends beyond the feet. Should not be over-coated and females tend to carry less coat and mane than males.
Black masks are common. Black and tan (and tricolor) dogs have tan markings (points) over the eyes, on the cheeks, chest, feet, and under the tail. Sabling (black tips to the hairs) are common in the gold and fawn shades.
Standard Colors
04/Consider
The Tibetan Spaniel is a charming little breed, long lived, and often called the “best-kept secret in the dog world.” Because they are moderate in all respects, and without the exaggerations that have affected many other breeds, there has never been a period of explosive popularity for the breed, which has been a benefit. Prospective owners need to remember that Tibbies are stubborn, may obey commands under protest, and must never be exercised off leash in an unfenced area.
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals.
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed.
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children.
Amount Of Shedding
How much hair a breed typically leaves behind on clothes, furniture and floors.
Frequency Of Grooming
How often a breed needs brushing, bathing or a professional trim to stay in condition.
Amount Of Drooling
How prone a breed is to drool — worth knowing before you keep a towel by the door.
Openness To Strangers
How openly a breed tends to greet new people, visitors and strangers.
Protective Nature
How likely a breed is to alert you to — and stand between you and — anything unfamiliar.
Playfulness Level
How enthusiastic a breed stays about games and play well past puppyhood.
Trainability Level
How readily a breed takes direction and works with you rather than around you.
Barking Level
How much a breed uses its voice, and how readily.
Energy Level
How much get-up-and-go a breed brings to an average day.
Health
Tibbies are a rugged little breed, as one would expect coming from the Himalayan Mountains, with relatively few health concerns. Slipping patellas (knee caps) can afflict many smaller breeds, including the Tibetan Spaniel. Eye exams are also recommended. Lifespan: Tibetan Spaniels will often live into their middle to late teens. They age well and maintain a joyful attitude from puppies to senior citizens.
Tibbies are very intelligent with excellent problem-solving skills. However, they have an independent streak which makes training them a challenge. Pleasing you is not a high priority for them, so you’ll have to find ways to convince them that obeying commands was their idea. They adore their families but can be rather aloof with strangers. This will vary from dog to dog; some are more outgoing than others. Observe your puppy’s parents and also ask how the breeder socialized the litter before they were ready to go to their new homes.
Exercise Expectations
Grooming Expectations
The Tibetan Spaniel is an adaptable, sturdy little dog that will be as content in a city apartment as in a large suburban or country home. Tibbies thrive on human companionship, and for this reason they do not make a good kennel dog. They can be aloof with strangers but are affectionate and devoted to their family and friends. Tibbies are sensitive, and responsive to the moods and feelings of their people. They are alert little watch dogs that will announce any unusual event or arrival. They’re not, however, considered a yappy breed.
05/Puppies
Think of your puppy as an infant. Tibbie babies need a routine, with regular meals, naps, playtime, and potty breaks. Although children will be attracted to their cuddly size and sweet faces, Tibbies need a home that is safe, and to be protected from teasing and rough handling. A cozy crate with a blanket and toys, will ensure secure off-leash confinement. Get your puppy accustomed to weekly grooming, nail trimming, and ear and eye cleaning. It’s important to keep up the good habits and routines that your puppy’s breeder has probably begun.
06/Activities
Tibetan Spaniels are great fun to show in Conformation, if that is an interest of yours. Most all-breed kennel clubs offer inexpensive handling classes, where both you and your Tibbie will learn the ropes and make friends with other show-minded owner-exhibitors.
Agility and Rally are fast-paced performance events that your Tibbie might enjoy. Think of them as obstacle courses, complete with tunnels, weave poles, and teeter totters.
If you prefer something less formal, organize regular on-leash walks and hikes with dog-owning friends to keep everyone fit. Once you’re home, your Tibbie will happily keep you company on the couch while you read or watch TV.
Gallery
07/Standards
The Tibetan Spaniel is recognized by the world's leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:
The ideal Tibetan Spaniel is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:
08/Clubs
Tibetan Spaniel Club of America, https://www.tsca.wsThe TSCA holds an annual national specialty (a dog show just for Tibbies) in different parts of the country. The club publishes an informative quarterly newsletter, has an active presence on Facebook, and offers an online chat group to members.Canada: It appears there is not an active parent club at this time—per Google search and a search of the CKC website.UK Tibetan Spaniel Association, https://tibetanspanielassoc.co.uk
09/Rescue
Tibetan Spaniel Club of America Rescue & Health Trust; info@tstrust.orghttps://tibetanspanielassoc.co.uk/breed-rescue
10/Facts
The Buddhist monks claimed the Tibetan Spaniel was 1/3 dog, 1/3 cat, and 1/3 monkey. Given the Tibetan Spaniel’s stubborn streak, mischief, sense of humor, and habit of washing other dogs’ faces, this description is entirely accurate.
11/FAQ
Definitely not. This breed is too stubborn, independent, and easily distracted. Keep your Tibbie safe with on-leash exercise or off-leash in a fenced yard.
Official Standard of the Tibetan Spaniel
General Appearance: Should be small, active and alert. The outline should give a well balanced appearance, slightly longer in body than the height at withers. Fault - Coarseness of type.
Size, Proportion, Substance: Size - Height about 10 inches. Proportion - Body slightly longer from the point of shoulder to root of tail than the height at withers. Substance - Weight 9 to 15 pounds being ideal. Faults - Long bodied or low to ground; leggy or square.
Head: Small in proportion to body and proudly carried, giving an impression of quality. Masculine in dogs but free from coarseness. Eyes dark brown in color, oval in shape, bright and expressive, of medium size set fairly well apart but forward looking, giving an apelike expression. Eye rims black. Faults - Large full eyes; light eyes; mean expression, blue eyes, or eyes with blue marks. Ears medium size, pendant, well feathered in the adult and set fairly high. They may have a slight lift from the skull, but should not fly. Large, heavy, low set ears are not typical. Skull slightly domed, moderate width and length. Faults - Very domed or flat wide skull. Stop moderately defined. Medium length of muzzle, blunt with cushioning, free from wrinkle. The chin should show some depth and width. Faults - Accentuated stop; long, plain down face, without stop; broad flat muzzle; pointed, weak or wrinkled muzzle. Black nose preferred. Faults - Liver or putty-colored pigmentation. Mouth ideally slightly undershot, the upper incisors fitting neatly inside and touching the lower incisors. Teeth should be evenly placed and the lower jaw wide between the canine tusks. A level mouth is permissible, providing there is sufficient width and depth of chin to preserve the blunt appearance of the muzzle. Teeth should not show when mouth is closed. Faults - Overshot mouth; protruding tongue. A bite that is so severely undershot, that the lower teeth are exposed.
Neck, Topline, Body: Neck moderately short, strong and well set on. Level back. Well ribbed with good depth. Tail set high, richly plumed and carried in a gay curl over the back when moving. Should not be penalized for dropping tail when standing.
Forequarters: Shoulders well placed and firm. When viewed from the front, the bones of the forearms are slightly bowed to allow the front feet to fall beneath the shoulders. Moderate bone. Faults - Extremely bowed or straight forearms, as viewed from front. Dewclaws may be removed. Feet - Small, hare foot. Fault - Cat feet.
Hindquarters: Well made and strong. Stifle well developed, showing moderate angulation. Hocks well let down and straight when viewed from behind. Faults - Straight stifle; cow hocks. Dewclaws may be removed. Feet as in front.
Coat: Double coat, silky in texture, smooth on face and front of legs, of moderate length on body, but lying rather flat. Ears and back of forelegs nicely feathered, tail and buttocks well furnished with longer hair. Neck covered with a mane or "shawl" of longer hair which is more pronounced in dogs than bitches. Feathering on toes, often extending beyond the feet. Should not be over-coated and bitches tend to carry less coat and mane than dogs. Presentation - In the show ring it is essential the Tibetan Spaniel be presented in an unaltered condition with the coat lying naturally with no teasing, parting or stylizing of the hair. Specimens where the coat has been altered by trimming, clipping, or by artificial means shall be so severely penalized as to be effectively eliminated from competition. Dogs with such a long coat that there is no rectangle of daylight showing beneath, or so profuse that it obstructs the natural outline, are to be severely penalized. Whiskers are not to be removed. Hair growing between the pads on the underside of the feet may be trimmed for safety and cleanliness. Feathering on toes must not be trimmed.
Color: All colors, and mixtures of colors allowed.
Gait: Quick moving, straight, free, positive.
Temperament: Gay and assertive, highly intelligent, aloof with strangers. Fault - Nervousness.
Approved May 11, 2010
Effective July 28, 2010
Meet the Judges
Edna González reflects on judging Non-Sporting breeds at Westminster 2026, sharing insights on her assignments and overall impressions.
Discover the unique traits of the Tibetan Spaniel, a loyal, independent, and intelligent breed with a rich history and loving nature.
Meet the Breeders
Janet L. Wright shares her journey with Tibetan Spaniels, focusing on breeding for health, temperament, and preserving the breed.
All About Judging
Learn how to judge the Tibetan Spaniel, focusing on balance, moderation, and the breed’s distinctive appearance and temperament.
Meet the Breeders
Lynn Miller is the breeder behind Kofuku Tibetan Spaniels. Read about the kennel’s beginnings, puppies, and much more!
Mallory Driskill is the breeder behind Ambrier Tibetan Spaniels. Read about the kennel’s beginnings, puppies, and much more!
Meet the Breeders
Marybeth Acker is the breeder behind MacIain Tibetan Spaniels. Read about the kennel’s beginnings, Tibetan Spaniel puppies, and much more!
Meet the Breeders
Carol Zieris is the breeder behind the Primah Tibetan Spaniels. Read about the kennel’s beginnings, champions, dogs, puppies, and more!
All About Judging
Read about the correct presentation of Tibetan Spaniels in the dog show ring, with examples from the AKC’s official breed standard.
Standard Markings
A Note About Color: All colors and mixtures of colors are allowed. Colors and patterns most frequently seen are shades of gold, fawn, red, and cream, with or without sabling (black overlay or hairs tipped with black); black and tan; tricolor; all black, all white. Chocolate (brown), with or without tan markings, do occur, but because this dilute color comes with liver nose and eye rims, and the Breed Standard requires black pigment, chocolate is discouraged.
Coat Type
Double
The structure of the coat this breed carries.
Coat Length
Medium
How long the breed's coat grows when kept in condition.
Adaptability Level
How easily a breed copes with changes in home, routine, noise and weather.
Mental Stimulation Needs
How much a breed needs a job, a puzzle or training to stay content.
Tibbies typically have good appetites and few issues when it comes to eating. Choose a good-quality food, and follow your veterinarian’s and breeder’s advice on how much to feed. Tibbie faces are hard to resist, so guard against offering too many between-meal snacks and letting your Tibbie pack on the pounds.
Tibbies are very clean, so crating your puppy when you cannot supervise him, and taking him out regularly, will facilitate house-training. Early and ongoing socialization is important to expose your Tibbie to adults, kind children, and other dogs and cats. Puppy Kindergarten classes are widely available and a fun way to teach your Tibbie basic commands in an environment of distractions. Tibbies should never be let off leash outdoors in an unfenced area. They are too stubborn and too curious about the world around them to take that risk.
