Tibetan Spaniel Dogs
The Tibetan Spaniel is a pleasant and lively pal. Around the house, it tends to be outgoing but also watchful, soaking up every detail: It can be very intuitive as well, sensing what its owner is thinking at any given moment. Protective and alert, the Tibetan Spaniel will bark at the approach of someone suspicious, but it is not inclined to be yappy or loud. Also, they happen to be very cuddly.
Quick Facts
- 9 - 15 pounds
- 10 - 11 inches
Ideal Human Companions
- Retirees
- City dwellers
- Families
Tibetan Spaniels on Dogster
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Trademark Traits
- Sprightly
- Playful
- Loyal
- Alert
- Protective
Things You Should Know
Tibetan Spaniels can live as long as 15 years. Generally healthy and long-lived, some can develop allergies, eye problems and respiratory problems (due to their short muzzles). Tibetan Spaniels need regular brushing to keep their coats in good shape. A bath every eight weeks should be enough.
Tibetan Spaniel History
The Tibetan Spaniel originated in Tibet, where it served as a faithful companion to Buddhist monks. Called “little lions” for their toughness and watchfulness, these canines were given as special gifts to Chinese dignitaries over the years, most likely mixing with other breeds such as the Pekingese and Japanese Chin.
The Look of a Tibetan Spaniel
Tibetan Spaniels have small, long frames covered in silky coats that come in just about any color. Their slightly domed heads are small in relation to the rest of their bodies. They have dark, lively eyes and hanging, feathered ears that make them look like they’re wearing little hats. Their plumed tails are carried gaily over the back. Overall, Tibetan Spaniels have a proud but amiable look.
Talk About Tibetan Spaniels 
Notorious escape artists
I fell in love with the Tibetan Spaniel breed when I first saw one in 1989, but I did not get my first one until 1998. I now happily breed and show them and have quite a number of them. Tibetan Spaniels are also notorious escape artists so owners need to be diligent about leaving them outside. They can climb, dig or squeeze through small openings and off they go on their adventures. Overall, they are a very special breed. They will alert you to visitors so a doorbell is unnecessary, but they are not yappy dogs. They are also very easy to care for and are pretty much a wash and wear dog, requiring simple brushing to keep the mats at bay. They are also like potato chips...it's hard to have just one!
~Linda H., owner of a Tibetan Spaniel
A friend for life
I rescued Buffy, a female Tibby, from the shelter a few years ago. She has repaid me by unfailing companionship.
Most dogs I've had will look at you. Buffy not only looks into my soul but studies me. I feel like she's going to write a novel and is studying her characters. She understands conversational talk, learns quickly if she wants to, and will head for the hills given the chance. We found her because they found her wandering the streets. She travels everywhere with us, including flying. Once in her carrier, you wouldn't know she was there until we arrive at our destination.
She loves kids and most adults but has a real leash aggression problem. Off-leash, she's fine with other dogs. When we first adopted her, I thought we would have to rename her to "She's sooo cute"!
~Al R, owner of a Tibetan Spaniel











