Tibetan Spaniel

Genetic Predispositions and Health

Tibetan Spaniels can suffer from degenerative myelopathy, progressive rod-cone degeneration, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA-3), and adult-onset neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL-12). They may also be affected by patellar luxation, a condition in which the dog's kneecap is dislocated from its normal position.

Personality and Behavior

Tibetan Spaniels are known for their intelligent, independent, and assertive demeanor. They are affectionate with their family and tend to be wary of strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. Despite their small size, they have a large personality and can be quite adventurous. These dogs are generally sociable and get along well with other animals. They are also known for their love of high places, often perching themselves on the highest point they can reach in a room, much like a cat.

Fun Facts

Despite its name, the Tibetan Spaniel is not a true spaniel. Its name is somewhat misleading, as spaniels are typically gun dogs, while the "Tibbie" is more similar to other Oriental breeds such as the Pekingese and the Japanese Chin.

These dogs were often kept on monastery walls in Tibet, where they would spin prayer wheels with their paws and bark to warn the monks of incoming visitors or dangers.

Tibetan Spaniels are sometimes called "little lions" due to their mane-like coat around their neck and their confident, assertive demeanor.

References

https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/tibetan-spaniel/
https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/TIBETAN-SPANIEL-231.html
https://www.ukcdogs.com/tibetan-spaniel
https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/dog-breeds/tibetan-spaniel
https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/breed/tibetan-spaniel