Characteristics of the Tibetan Spaniel
The
Tibetan Spaniel is known for his affectionate nature and love of
people. Tibbies are small, easy to care for, do not require a great
deal of grooming and are generally very healthy. They are very curious,
friendly and easily become bored with repetitive structured commands.
Tibetan Spaniels are a delight to watch as they play with children,
cats and a huge assortment
of toys. If a new owner fails to provide ample toys and play time
to keep a Tibbie amused, this little breed will search and “find
something” to satisfy his curiosity. These “something's” could be
anything from toilet paper to artificial flowers or house plants.
New owners will need to be watchful that their Tibbie does not encounter
harmful situations as their natural curiosity drives them on many
quests and adventures as a puppy and young adult. Tibbies also enjoy
watching out a window and can be accomplished climbers. It is best
if they do not discover that food crumbs are often be found on a
kitchen table or counter. Once a Tibbie realizes this potential
the surprised owner may often find them searching there for tidbits.
With
this great spirit of adventure and curiosity, Tibbies adapt well
to traveling and enjoy short walks in parks and other public places.
They love to run and play in the warm sunshine and greet new people
with licks and kisses. Tibbies tend to think they are a big dog
in a small dog's body and are not afraid of anything. New owners
need to be aware that Tibbies may not show fear of larger and more
aggressive dogs. They will need to be protected from situations
that may put their lives in danger.
The Tibetan Spaniel is an affectionate and assertive little dog who seldom meets a stranger. While ALWAYS devoted to his owner, the Tibetan Spaniel may occasionally be aloof with unknown visitors but should never show aggression towards them by snapping or biting. They generally show shyness with strangers by attempting to hide their heads under the arm of their owner or “asking” to be picked up and held. Once a stranger becomes a trusted friend they will remember them from visit to visit and become more hospitable and eager to greet them with licks and kisses at the door.
Tibbies
should be sturdy, agile and alert. The outline should give a well
balanced appearance, slightly longer in body than the height at
withers. Tibbies usually weigh 9-15 lbs but occasionally are slightly
smaller or larger so in theory may weigh 6-20 pounds.

At Aamilet we strive for moderation and expect most puppies produced to mature at between 10 and 14 pounds and measure 10 inches at the withers. Smaller or larger Tibbies are not produced to satisfy the demands of the public or current trends in dog show judging. The Tibetan Spaniel Club of America and American Kennel Club approved Breed Standard is our roadmap for creating new litters.
If you are considering acquiring a dog of any breed please
remember it is a long term commitment. This is particularly true
for the Tibetan Spaniel. They are often happy and active well past
14 years of age and quite frequently live to be 16 or 17 with only
minor geriatric difficulties (loss of teeth or hearing and slight
arthritis).
(This picture was taken by Chris Elias after his wife's recent surgery. He reports that Bravo never left her side for the nearly 6 weeks she was recovering. What a love to have him watch over her.)
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