Overview
The Tibetan spaniel was kept in Himalayan monasteries as a companion and lookout, sitting on the walls to bark a warning when strangers approached. It has no gundog blood; the name is a Western label. It is a small, slightly long-bodied dog with a silky coat, a mane around the neck and a plumed tail carried over the back.
Tibbies, as owners call them, are confident, independent and affectionate without being needy. They like to see everything from a vantage point, they bark to announce, and they have a mind of their own. They are also robust for their size and enjoy a proper walk.
Exercise and walking needs
Two walks a day of twenty minutes or so, with a bit of play, keep an adult content. They are not demanding but they are more active than a lap dog and will happily extend a walk in good weather.
The breed copes with cold reasonably well thanks to the double coat, but the short muzzle means hot days need care. Keep summer walks short and shaded.
On the walk
- Barking: The dog will announce joggers, other dogs and anything out of place. It is a lookout by heritage, so manage the trigger rather than the dog.
- Recall: Independent-minded; it will come when it has finished what it is doing. Treat it as a lead dog in busy places and reward returns well.
- Other dogs: Confident and usually friendly, though it does not see itself as small. Watch for it squaring up to much bigger dogs.
- Pulling: Light, but the neck is small and the eyes are prominent, so a harness is kinder than a collar.
Tips for professional walkers
- Use a soft harness and a light lead; there is no need for anything heavy on a dog this size.
- Brush the feathering and ears after wet walks to stop mats forming behind the ears.
- Pick quieter routes if barking is an issue, and keep greetings with big dogs under control.
- Avoid hot afternoons; the short face copes poorly with heat.
What to ask the owner
- Any eye problems or breathing issues to be aware of on warm days?
- How does the dog respond to recall, and where are you happy for it to be off the lead?
- Does it bark a lot on walks, and are there triggers you would rather I avoided?