Getting to Know the Tibetan Spaniel

This article was originally published in Showsight Magazine, October 2013 issue.

Getting to Know the Tibetan Spaniel

To those who love the Tibetan Spaniel we see the many facets of their being. We see the unique animal who graciously allows us to live with “them” and we hope this article gives you some idea of the reasons why. To know and understand this breed we go back to their very beginning. Tibbies, as they are affectionately called, originated in the rough, mountainous countryside of Tibet. The breed has been known for over 2000 years. We envision them sitting on a wall or high place alerting their people of something that may (or is about to) be happening. This is an ancient characteristic they still possess today. It is said the Buddhist monks raised Tibetan Spaniels and used them as bed warmers among other things. They were never sold but given as cherished gifts to esteemed friends. Legend has it that the Buddhist monks had the Tibetan Spaniels turn the prayer wheels in the monasteries.

Owners today keep that thought alive. Because of the legend, when someone in the Tibbie community needs prayers we sign our e-mail or correspondence with, “prayer wheels are turning for you.” This rugged, little dog withstood temperatures in their native Tibet from between 32 degrees – 50 degrees in the summer and to -4 to 14 degrees in the winter months. This double-coated breed was made to withstand these extremes. As such, Tibbies are a hardy breed both loving and stubborn at the same time. They are cat-like in nature, thriving on human companionship when “they” feel the need to have it. This loyal and independent nature adds to the breed’s uniqueness. The breed in the U.S. got its start from breeders in the United Kingdom. We thank those breeders for believing in us to care for and cherish this wonderful breed.

In the early days, before AKC recognition, we as breeders were also fortunate to have two members of the Tibetan Spaniel Club of America, Inc. who came back from India and brought a male and a female with them. The introduction of those new lines made great contributions to the breed in the U.S. Today we import dogs from all over Europe and work together with breeders from many countries. In this way we continue to strive to keep this breed true to its origin. Working cooperatively with others around the world has worked in the breed’s favor. We have gained knowledge about health issues and in turn address those issues worldwide. Both the breeders from the U.S. and the U.K., among others, have worked to contribute blood samples for PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) research. Because of this effort, the breed now has a genetic marker and test for PRA 3. The breed is relatively healthy, living to upwards of 15 years old or older and thriving because of its conscientious caretakers.

The people that raise and train the Tibetan Spaniel are almost as unique as the breed they raise. Raising show animals can be both rewarding and frustrating. It is very rewarding when a puppy from one’s planned breeding earns its championship and then goes on to compete at the next level of competition. Doing well in the Group ring, competing against other breeds in the Non-Sporting Group, is the ultimate compliment to one’s breeding program. So much planning goes into breeding quality, healthy (in mind and body) examples of the breed. Several things that make Tibbies unique are their hare feet with their coveted slippers. Slippers are the hair that grows out from both the underside and topside of the foot. Please note this hair may not grow to its full beauty until the Tibbie is four or so years old. The surface the Tibbie is kept on can contribute to the breakage or loss of toe hair. Tibbies also have a unique front assemble with its strong prosternum. This breed feature is easily lost if attention to this detail is not specifically sought after. When this is lost you may lose true Tibbie movement. One head factor that is important to uphold is the slightly undershot mouth or bite.

The standard does allow a level bite provided there is enough width and depth of chin as to preserve the blunt appearance of the muzzle. Anyone can put two dogs together but that doesn’t necessarily mean the end result will be a dog that looks like its breed. Genetic testing must be done, prior to breeding, to better ensure the continued quality of the breed. Of course, breeding dogs is not an exact science but most national breed clubs require its club members to do this testing for the health and welfare of the breed the organization is there to protect and defend. We are the caretakers of the breed and if we fail in our task the breed fails as well. It is gratifying to hear newcomers to the breed say that this is a welcoming breed. One that aids new exhibitors in how to show and care for the breed. With little basic grooming a new exhibitor can have a Tibbie ready for the ring. Most show them free baiting which adds to the ease of showing. Thankfully, we are a breed where class animals are mostly owner-handled. Tibbies are enjoyable little characters to have fun with and have a big dog attitude! This is not a breed with just a pretty face and coat.

Tibbies and their devotion to family and companionship have lent themselves well to therapy work. A therapy dog has an outstanding temperament, tolerates other animals well, loves adults and children and enjoys being with their owners. Whether it’s visiting nursing homes, libraries (as nonjudgmental reading listeners) pediatric wards in hospitals or sitting on the lap of someone in a wheelchair therapy, Tibbies are unique to the job at hand. Being involved with pet therapy is rewarding and therapeutic for both the dog and the handler. The breed is also used in the junior showmanship ring. We have enjoyed both watching and supporting our juniors with Tibbies. Having children involved with the breed helps ensure the next generation of dog show enthusiasts. If you feel performance events might be what tickles your fancy you may be interested in agility or obedience. Tibbies are very intelligent and intuitive little dogs. While Tibbies love being with their people and having fun, they also have an independent nature described as “cat-like” in our standard. This independence often means they do not see a purpose in doing something over and over again since… they just did it. This combination makes training a Tibetan Spaniel for performance events a challenge but often a very fun adventure.

With a sense of humor, use of positive training techniques and short fun practice sessions Tibetan Spaniels can excel in many different performance events. Tibetan Spaniels are sturdy and athletic little dogs (not diminutive toy-like dogs) that enjoy agility, but may want to pause at the top of the A-Frame or Dog Walk to check out their domain. They also can excel in obedience and Rally obedience if “their person” remembers short, fun practice sessions. Some other activities Tibbies have participated in include tricks, tracking, and musical freestyle. Just remember training a Tibbie can be entertaining because of Tibbie antics. Maintain a good sense of humor and accept that a Tibbie will make you laugh! As you can see there are many facets of the Tibetan Spaniel. Whether it’s the fun loving Tibbie antics that attract you to this breed or the challenge of training an independent cat-like thinker; peel back the multitude of layers that make up a Tibetan Spaniel and you will find the unique four-legged creature we lovingly call “Tibbies.”