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Tibetan Spaniel

Group: Utility

Size: Small

Coat length: Medium

Grooming required: More than once a week

Coat sheds: No

Home size: Flat, Small or Large House

Garden size: Small/Medium

Lifespan: Over 12 Years

Exercise: Up to 1 hour per day

Tibetan Spaniels are often mistaken for Pekingese but as well having as a somewhat more relaxed outlook on life, the Spaniel does not have extra skin around the eyes, has a slightly longer face and their coat is less abundant.

They are a small, compact dog with a body slightly longer than it is tall and a domed head. They have a double, silky coat, which is medium length on the body, a mane and a feathery tail which is carried over their back. The coat can come in all colours.

They originated about two thousand years ago and were used by monks to turn a prayer wheel and as watchdogs. They are a playful and charming little dog: affectionate and curious, intelligent and trusting and although a good watchdog, they are not overly yappy. They normally get along fine with other animals and children but can be a little wary of strangers. They enjoy a daily opportunity for exercise.

Their coat needs regular brushing and combing and comes out in clumps when they moult, once a year. They are prone to breathing problems and heatstroke.