Originating in the Himalayan mountains of Tibet, the Tibetan Spaniel has been known for over 2,000 years. Bred and owned by Buddhist monks and lamas, "Tibbies" were never sold. They left the monasteries of Tibet only as treasured gifts to esteemed friends.
Legend has it that the Tibetan Spaniels were used to turn the prayer wheels in the monasteries. Although this legend is doubted, they did serve the monks as companions and bed warmers. With their keen sight and hearing, the Tibbies acted as lookouts, lying on the high monastery walls and barking, warning the monks and larger Tibetan Mastiffs whenever anything approached.
Tibetan Spaniels are small, well-balanced dogs measuring about 10 inches at the shoulder. ( 9--15 lbs. )
They are alert, intelligent, and do not bark excessively or unnecessarily. Although small, they are quite sturdy, good with other pets and children. However, because of their size, care should be taken when being handled by smaller children.They are fun loving clowns, and very playful.
Like all Tibetan breeds, Tibbies have a double coat — a soft undercoat for warmth and a moderately long, silky outercoat which lies flat. Shedding is seasonal, and they require regular brushing.
Legend has it that the Tibetan Spaniels were used to turn the prayer wheels in the monasteries. Although this legend is doubted, they did serve the monks as companions and bed warmers. With their keen sight and hearing, the Tibbies acted as lookouts, lying on the high monastery walls and barking, warning the monks and larger Tibetan Mastiffs whenever anything approached.
Tibetan Spaniels are small, well-balanced dogs measuring about 10 inches at the shoulder. ( 9--15 lbs. )
They are alert, intelligent, and do not bark excessively or unnecessarily. Although small, they are quite sturdy, good with other pets and children. However, because of their size, care should be taken when being handled by smaller children.They are fun loving clowns, and very playful.
Like all Tibetan breeds, Tibbies have a double coat — a soft undercoat for warmth and a moderately long, silky outercoat which lies flat. Shedding is seasonal, and they require regular brushing.