The Tibetan Spaniel is a happy little dog that is protective with her family. They can be kept in an apartment as long as they can get frequent walks. A properly fenced in yard is best for exercise. Most individuals are very good with other dogs and pets. It is said that they are very good with children, especially older, calm children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Tibetan Spaniel is 10 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 9 to 15 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Tibetan Spaniel is no exception. Although considered a healthy breed, be on the look out for kidney disease, progressive retinal atrophy and respiratory problems. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The Tibetan Spaniel has a double coat, of moderate length and silky in feel. Some shed heavily once a year. She should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.

*Life Span. The Tibetan Spaniel can live between 15 and 16 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Tibetan Spaniel comes from Tibet where Buddist monks called them prayer dogs. They were used as watchdogs and companions. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1983.

Some Registries:

* Tibetan Spaniel Club of America

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 2 to 4 Tibetan Spaniel puppies

Category: Non Sporting

Terms To Describe: Active, small, alert, assertive, intelligent, happy

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Makes a good watch dog.

Is very intelligent.

Affectionate with human family.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Makes a poor guard dog.

Can be stubborn.

*Other Names Known By: Prayer dogs,

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.