The Tibetan Spaniel, or as it is also called the Tobbie, is an ancient breed that came to people from the territory of Asia. Its representatives are distinguished by miniature, small size, thick hair, a smart face and an inexhaustible stock of courage. In addition, they are infinitely loyal to their owner and openly show adoration to him.
The origin of the breed
According to one of the legends, the tobbies are the result of crossing shih-tzu and spitz-like dogs. Although other historical data indicate that Tibetan spaniels were originally inhabitants of Tibetan monasteries. With not too big growth they were used as security guards, but, in addition to this, they carried out many other duties at temples.
Monks did not sell animals outside the monasteries, so they became known as a breed in Europe only in the 19th century, when the breed was first presented at an exhibition in 1898. The British called her the spaniels when the breed standards were prescribed in 1934.
Description of the Tibetan Spaniel breed
Tobbie is a short dog, height in withers it does not exceed 25-26 cm, with weight body from 4.1 to 6.8 pounds. General characteristics of the appearance of the breed, according to standard data:
- Head - wide and convex, with brightly contoured brow arcs and a wide skull, slightly flattened face, without folds.
- Lips tight to the dentition, bite a small bite. But at the same time, the upper canines should not protrude beyond the lower lip, it should block them.
- Eyes - dark, brown or dark chocolate in color, have a dark outline of the eyelids, oval and with a straight open look.
- Nose is pigmented in black.
- The form bodies - elongated, movements in running or walking, confident and light, neck - short, without a pronounced transition from the head to the body.
- Ears - long and hanging, have towing, according to the standard do not stop - they must be hanging and not stand.
- Limbs short, front - small and neat, slightly curved inward, strong in the shoulder joint. The hind ones are stronger and muscular, with a well-developed knee joint.
- The loins of the dog - short, back - has a flat line and strong croup. When moving, it should not bend, and the croup should rise above the level of the back, the legs should not go over each other.
- Tail - ring-shaped, set high, fluffy and tight to the back, framed with long hair and not cropped.
Type of coat and possible colors
The coat of the purebred representative is silky and soft to the touch, of medium length, has a thick undercoat, while at the bough it is less thick than at males. It is the coat that requires special care and combing in order to avoid tangles and many skin inflammations.
The coat color is the most diverse, it can vary from light shades to dark ones, it can be monophonic or with modulations and transitions of tones.
Character and temper
Today, the main purpose of the dog - is living in a cozy home, in a circle of loving people, and its security functions are gone. Tibetan Spaniel is considered an excellent companion and friend, endowed with developed intelligence and great devotion.
In relation to households and pets, the dog shows incredible loyalty and love, it gets along perfectly with everyone, while it treats strangers with a certain wariness and distrust. The spaniel will carefully, sensitively guard its own house - with all its small size it cannot withstand the aggressor, but the owners will be warned by barking with voices about its appearance.
Tobbie is a cheerful and energetic, cheerful and active, intelligent and smart, wise and wayward dog. In order to establish a harmonious relationship, you should give it maximum attention and love. Tibetan spaniels require not only enough attention to themselves, but also personal space - they do not tolerate restrictions in their decisions and movements. It is limited space that can adversely affect the physical and psychological development and formation of a dog.
The dog is not aggressive, while it will not bark for no apparent reason, intelligent and will be restrained to show their emotions to other people's dogs. By its temperament - more sanguine, with a strong nervous system.
TO positive The breed qualities of dog handlers include the following features:
- High level of intelligence, ingenuity and ingenuity.
- Valor and courage.
- Devotion to your master and family members.
- Excellent attitude towards children, lack of aggression and anger towards other pets, cautious attitude towards strangers.
TO disadvantages This breed experts include the following characteristics:
- Overconfident self-righteousness - dogs can make their own decisions without listening to the owner.
- Overabundance of energy that requires constant output in active games and sufficient physical activity.
- The need for constant increased attention and games, care and love - in the absence of attention the dog becomes aggressive and can spoil the property.
- Considerable obstinacy in size - the tobbie will always defend its territory, and the size of the aggressor is not taken into account.
Training and education
According to the dog handlers, the Tibetan Spaniel is classified as a group of dogs with moderate training abilities, and in practice this means that in order to master this or that team, it is worth repeating it at least 30-40 times. And the Tobbi itself, by virtue of its natural stubbornness, will fulfill them through time, reserving the right to make independent decisions.
If the owner wants to practice dressing, then it should start early, while the owner himself must make every effort so that the tobey becomes obedient and executes all the commands on demand. It is important for the owner to establish himself in the role of leader and leader, not to allow disobedience, but not to punish the dog physically if the teams are executed incorrectly.
Of course, the more varied and interesting classes will be built, the faster your pet will master the necessary skills. It is imperative that when training, it will be necessary to encourage tobbies with sweets or praise.
Dog care
Tobbie, like other breeds of dogs, need constant care. To preserve the beauty and health of the coat, it must be regularly combed with a special soft brush when the main coat is raised and the undercoat is combed out at the very beginning. Combing is recommended to be carried out 2-3 times a week.
They wash the dog rarely, optimally 3-5 times a year or as far as it is contaminated, using a special shampoo and conditioner, dried afterwards with a hair dryer, or dry types of shampoos are used. According to the breed standard, the tobbies are not sheared, the only exception is the treatment of the paw area.
Attention in the care require ears and eyes. Inspect them for pollution should be regularly, at least 1-2 times a week. To remove sulfur and clean the ears, you should use a cotton pad and not a cotton swab, which can injure an animal. Eyes should be wiped with a cotton pad dipped in warm water or a special solution - a separate disc is taken for treatment of each eye.
It is also worth regularly trimming the claws, especially puppies - they do it with a special claw cutter. Adult dogs often gnaw their claws themselves or they grind off as a result of active exercise.
Breed diseases
It can not be argued that the Tibetan Spaniel is a dog with good health, on the contrary - with improper maintenance and care, malnutrition may be affected by various diseases. With the right content, life expectancy is 12-14 years.
First of all, it should be noted that the dog is prone to frequent bouts of food allergies and the appearance of an allergic form of dermatitis. But the musculoskeletal system deserves special attention - often the tobbies suffer from hip dysplasia of the joints and back pain, when the spine is affected by intervertebral hernia.
In addition, the risk of developing respiratory system diseases is high - shortness of breath often accompanies the dog during heavy physical exertion. Also, the tobbie is often susceptible to cardiovascular diseases - it is angina pectoris and heart valve malfunction, so the dog’s nutrition must be balanced, and physical activity is sufficient.
Feeding Tibetan Spaniel should be based on the principles of food allergy - dogs of this breed are very sensitive to poor-quality food and food. First of all, from the diet should be excluded fatty and fried, any smoked meats, pickles, sweets. Also banned is salt, potatoes, pasta.
The approximate diet of the spaniel is as follows:
- Low-fat varieties of meat - the basis of the pet's diet (2/3), this is beef and veal, you can enter the bird, but not chicken, but turkey meat. Be sure to exclude pork - it is too fat and can provoke an upset stomach.
- Sea fish, but river - is contraindicated. In this case, it is worthwhile to pre-carve the carcass, as the fish contains many small bones that can injure the esophagus.
- Kashi - a small amount of oatmeal or barley is allowed, rarely give buckwheat. In this case, porridges are selected individually and boiled in vegetable broth or water.
- It is recommended to give and dairy products - cottage cheese and kefir, adding to them calcium and honey, which serves as a source of vitamins and strengthens the immune system, but milk should be introduced into the diet carefully, as it is allergenic. It is necessary to choose a sour milk with low fat content.
- It is mandatory to introduce in the diet of the pet vitamin and mineral supplements.
The dog is recommended to feed in small portions - its volume is selected individually, taking into account age and general condition, activity.
If the owner decides to feed the tobbie with ready-made production rations, high-quality hypoallergenic food should be chosen, designed for small breeds of dogs, taking into account the age and activity of the pet. Regardless of the type of feeding, the pet must receive sufficient water, clean drinking water.
Puppy cost
When choosing a Tibetan Spaniel puppy, you should be guided by the purpose for which it is bought - whether it will be just a pet or whether it will participate in exhibitions. The price is also influenced by gender, bitches will cost more than males, and by nature they are calmer, titularity and regalia of parents, pedigree, etc.
When choosing a puppy, you should pay attention primarily to the conditions of the bitch - whether it is kept in a dry room, with sufficient lighting, ventilation, how balanced and varied its diet is. The health of the offspring depends on it - the puppy must be active and mobile, moderately curious and not fearful, with a shiny fur, developed in his age and with vaccinations.
The cost of a Tibetan Spaniel puppy on average ranges from 40,000 to 45,000 rubles. But since there are few nurseries on the Russian expanses, it is likely that they will have to acquire a pet outside the country, for example, in Finland or in Estonia. Naturally, the price in this case will be higher. You should not buy a tobbie from questionable breeders or from hands, as the puppy may turn out to be half-breed or sick.
Tibetan Spaniel - despite its stubbornness, with proper upbringing and appropriate care will become a loyal friend, a brave advocate, an excellent companion and just a favorite for the whole family.
Breed history
Tibetan spaniels are very ancient, appeared long before people began to write dogs in tribal books. When Europeans learned about them, Tibetan spaniels served as companions to monks in the monasteries of Tibet. However, they also had practical application. Like the statues of lions at the entrance to the monastery, they were located on the walls and looked out for strangers. Then they raised barking, to which serious watchmen came - Tibetan mastiffs.
These dogs were sacred and never sold, but only donated. From Tibet, they came to China and other countries with Buddhist traditions, which led to the emergence of such breeds as the Japanese hin and Pekingese. But for the Western world, they remained unknown for a long time and only in 1890 came to Europe. However, not gained fame until 1920, when the English breeder became interested in them seriously. He actively promoted the breed, but his efforts went to pieces with the beginning of World War II. Most breeders could not contain kennels, and the rest was not up to exotic dogs.
Tibetan spaniels oblong format, longer than in height. This is a small breed, at the withers up to 25 cm, weight 4-7 kg. Despite their small size, the dogs are very balanced, without sharp features.
The head is small relative to the body, proudly raised. The skull is domed, with a smooth but pronounced foot. Muzzle of medium length, lower jaw pushed forward, which leads to a snack. But the teeth and tongue are not visible.
The nose is flat and black, eyes wide apart. They are oval and dark brown in color, clear and expressive. Ears of medium size, set on high, hanging. The tail is covered with long hair, set on high and lying on the back while moving.
Dogs from Tibet may differ in appearance, but they all have a double coat, which protects from the cold. The dense undercoat keeps warm, despite the fact that the back hair is not hard, but silky, short on the face and the front of the paws. The mane and feathering are located on the ears, neck, tail, back of the paws. The mane and feathering in males is especially pronounced, while the females are more modestly decorated.
There are no restrictions on color, but golden is especially appreciated.
Tibetan Spaniel does not belong to the classic European hunting spaniels. In fact, this is not a spaniel at all, not a gun dog, they have nothing in common with hunting dogs. This is a very valuable and beloved companion dog, which was considered sacred and never sold.
Modern Tibetan spaniels still behave like sacred dogs, they love people, respect them, but demand respect for themselves.
This is an independent and mobile breed, they are even compared to cats. Despite the short paws, Tibetan spaniels are quite graceful and easily overcome obstacles. In ancient times, they loved to be on the monastery walls and since then have respected the heights. Today they can be found on the top of the bookshelf or on the back of the sofa, offering the best view. They have not forgotten the guard duty either, they can be magnificent bells warning of others. Just do not think that it is guard dogs, for obvious reasons.
Tibetan Spaniel loves to be part of the family and quite happy living in an apartment. They are famous for their sensitivity to the mood of a person, trying to be with him in difficult moments. Because of this sensitivity, they do not tolerate families where scandals and quarrels are frequent, they do not like shouting and noise.
They are friends with children, but like all decorative dogs, only if they respect them. Especially they will appeal to people of the older generation, as they require moderate activity, but at the same time extremely sensitive to the mood and state of the host.
Modest, well-mannered, at home, the Tibetan Spaniel changes on the street. Independent, he can be stubborn and even difficult to train. Often the Tibetan Spaniel responds to the call or team when it decided it was time. Unless the owner wants to run all over the area for his little princess, it is better not to let her off the leash. Dog training, discipline and socialization are mandatory for the Tibetan Spaniel. If everything is done correctly, then the attitude towards the owner will be like to God.
If you forget about stubbornness and independence, then this is almost an ideal dog. They are clean and respect the order, able to adapt to life in an apartment and house. Stanley Koren, the author of the book Intellect of Dogs, puts them in intelligence level at 46th place, referring to dogs with average abilities. Tibetan Spaniel understands the new team after 25-40, and performs it in 50% of cases.
They are smart enough and stubborn, they love people and without a company easily fall into boredom. If they stay a long time themselves, they can become destructive. Dexterous and smart, they can get there where not every dog can. Small, with small legs, they are able to open doors and cabinets in search of food and entertainment. However, this does not mean that they will eat everything, as they are whimsical in the feed.
The care is not complicated, and considering that Tibetan spaniels love communication, these procedures are a joy to them. They molt twice a year, at this time you need to comb daily. There is no particular smell from them, so often you do not need to bathe the dog. Daily brushing is enough to make the dog look healthy, beautiful, and there are no mats in the coat.
This is a very healthy breed and with the right content can live for a long time. Life expectancy is from 9 to 15 years, but some dogs live longer.
Из характерных для породы заболеваний — прогрессирующая атрофия сетчатки, при котором собака может ослепнуть. Характерным признаком ее развития является куриная слепота, когда собака не видит в темноте или сумерках.
general information
The Tibetan Spaniel, the photo of which is posted in this article, is a miniature dog. Growing males at the withers does not exceed 27 cm, females just below - 24 cm, weight ranges from 4 to 7 kg. Life expectancy is about 15 years. In comparison with the size of the torso head is small. The muzzle is flat, like a Pekingese, without folds. The nose is painted black. The lower jaw covers the upper teeth. The standard allows for the location of jaws on one level, but only on the condition of a deep chin, so that the flattened shape of the muzzle is preserved.
The eyes are medium in size, oval in shape, dark brown. Ears are set high, hanging, covered with fluffy, silky hair. Tail with thick undercoat, set high. When an animal moves, it takes the form of a ringlet. The front legs are strong, may be slightly curved. The rear seems somewhat dry.
Reading the description of the Tibetan Spaniel in different sources, we can conclude that the current two-layer coat was formed as a result of a long stay in the climate of Tibet. Such a fur coat protected animals from low temperatures and piercing wind. The top layer is silky, the undercoat is thick and dense. The longest coat is on the hips of the animal. On the muzzle and front legs it is smooth and short, on the body - of medium length. The back side of the front paws, ears, tail are well pubescent. Any color is allowed: gray, bright red, white, golden, cream, black.
The Tibetan Spaniel dog is a mobile, cheerful and playful animal. She is equally friendly to all family members, she feels great even in a very modest-sized apartment. Quite loyal to other pets, but only on the condition that a puppy got into a tibby house.
Breed Tibetan Spaniel has one interesting feature, thanks to which these dogs are compared with cats - they relieve stress. Abroad, these animals are often taught and used in the programs of Canistherapy (some kind of zootherapy, designed to rehabilitate patients with impaired brain activity).
A long retreat in the monastery left an imprint on the character of the animal. They react to strangers with caution. Naturally, the miniature size of the Tibetan Spaniel will not allow him to harm a person, and he can warn the host about the visit of unexpected guests.
Despite the completely friendly disposition, these animals are prone to independence. Tibetan spaniel is characterized by self-confidence and a certain estrangement. Tibby will not bark without reason. Such a pet is hard on loneliness. For this reason, it should not be ignored for a long time. In protest, he can chew on master's things. The dog needs long and active daily walks. Otherwise, he will become irritable.
Content Features
Tibetan Spaniel feels comfortable in a city apartment, due to its small size and simple care, as well as in a country house. True, as we have said, a passive lifestyle will not work for this dog. Spaniel must have a place to rest. To organize it, put a litter-free part of the room protected from drafts. Tibby will not refuse to rest on the couch, where he climbs on his own.
Spaniel care
The maintenance of an animal does not cause serious problems, but such a pet needs regular grooming. It should be combed every two days with a special brush. But water procedures for the representatives of this breed are undesirable - they can cause dermatitis.
You can atone for such a pet only if it gets very dirty, but using shampoos and conditioners for dogs (Conditioning Rinse, One Step Herbal Shampoo Conditioner). After bathing, blot your pet's hair with a towel and dry it with a hairdryer.
Hygiene procedures
They provide regular care for the ears, eyes, teeth and claws. In the spring and summer, care should be taken to protect your four-legged friend from ticks, fleas and mosquitoes that are carriers of dangerous diseases. This will help you the products of the company "Hartz", specializing in the manufacture of special sprays, shampoos, collars and drops.
Regularly examine the eyes of the animal. When souring, clean them with antibacterial wipes or a damp cotton swab. Once a week, remove dirt and sulfur from the ears, using a cotton pad, which you can not moisten.
At least twice a week you should brush your pet's teeth, although veterinarians recommend it to be done daily to prevent the formation of tartar. In specialized stores today you can buy pasta and brushes for dogs. For example, Trixie, Canine Tooth Paste 8 in 1.
Tibby's claws are clipped twice a month using a claw cutter. But if the dog leads an active lifestyle, they grind down during walks.
Experienced dog breeders know, and novices will be informed that the dog’s food must be balanced. The animal must receive the necessary vitamins and minerals for full development. In the diet of tibby there is a basic rule - do not overload the diet of the animal with fatty foods. It is possible to provide your pet with useful substances with the help of natural products, and using special dry and canned food. For Tibetan Spaniels, “super premium” class compositions are needed for small breed dogs. This may be Nyutro Choice or Merrick.
If you prefer to feed your friend with natural products, you should understand that this does not mean that you can feed the dog with the food you eat yourself. This can not be done. The diet of the animal should include:
- veal, beef, goat,
- offal (lungs, kidneys, stomach, liver, heart),
- boiled vegetables (carrots, beets, tomatoes, zucchini),
- cereals (buckwheat, rice),
- sea fish (notoeniya, cod, hake),
- dairy products (kefir, ryazhenka, cottage cheese).
Owners should be aware that corn and chicken tibby often cause allergic reactions. If you find signs of similar reactions in your pet, these products should be urgently excluded from the diet of the animal.
What not to give tibby?
A number of products are prohibited for feeding representatives of this breed. These include:
- bakery and pastry,
- pork, lamb,
- products containing starch, for example, potatoes,
- salty, smoked, spicy food,
- tubular bones.
Fish should be given only in boiled form, as fresh ones may contain helminths. A Tibetan Spaniel is fed five to six times a day for three months, from 3 to 7 months - three times, after 7 months the animal is transferred to two meals.
As already mentioned, the Tibetan Spaniel is an active animal that needs physical activity. Walk it twice a day. Duration of walks should be at least an hour. Since the dog is very mobile, it should be taken outside on a leash. Otherwise it will be very difficult to keep the pet under control.
In order for the animal to be able to throw out the accumulated energy, from puppyhood it should be taught to run or to ball games.
Upbringing and training
It is necessary to start raising a puppy of a Tibetan spaniel as early as possible. Tibby can show character, and therefore it is not easy to accustom them to discipline. Education in the first months of life is primarily aimed at establishing contact with the owner.
At first, the puppy must learn to respond to its nickname, learn where its place is, get used to walks on a leash. Spaniels quickly learn the commands “Sit!”, “Near!”, “Place!”, “Come to me!”, “Can't!” Due to a rather high level of intelligence. However, the owners should know that the animals are rather stubborn: do not be surprised that the first time the team will have to be repeated 25-30 times each. To motivate your pet to do the exercise, do not stint on praise, treat him with a treat.
Choosing a puppy
If you, after reading this article, have decided to urgently go to the bird market for a charming puppy, we want to warn you. This breed is quite rare in Russia, so there is no question of acquiring a baby on the market. Need to find a specialized nursery Tibetan spaniels. We want to immediately warn you that there are few of them in Russia, mainly in large cities.
As a rule, puppies are handed over to new owners at two to three months of age. By this time, the responsible breeder should give the baby the first vaccinations. Attention should be paid to the appearance of the animal. A puppy should have an elongated body, a dome-shaped head, a flattened muzzle, expressive eyes, rather wide-set, a flat back, clean wool. The best indicator of tibby's well-being is the behavior of the baby: a healthy puppy is playful, mobile, inquisitive.
History reference
The Tibetan Spaniel is a small dog with a very long and winding history. Representatives of the breed were distributed in the monasteries of Buddhist monks, served as companions and protectors. Tibetan Spaniel served as a valuable gift, which was presented only to very important guests. Today, Tibetan Spaniels are considered a very rare breed, but are valued by their fans for a sharp mind and listen.
It is said that the Tibetan Spaniel is like a little lion, which is a symbol of Buddhism. The four-footed constantly keeps vigilance and carries out the functions entrusted to it. Despite their size, dogs are wary of strangers and violently display protective instinct.
Since in the modern world the Tibetan Spaniel is rarely used for protection, it is considered to be a companion or a sports dog. The breed is convenient for keeping in an apartment, adapts well to living conditions, quickly learns tricks and is trained.
Even in the ancient annals of monks, it is noted that Tibetan spaniels are very sensitive and intuitive. The dog feels well its owner, is very worried about family problems and shows a very reverent attitude towards children.
It is interesting! The early ancestors of Tibetan spaniels were known in ancient Asia. Petroglyphs of dogs with elegant hair and lion heads are found in both Tibet and China.
It is believed that the monks were engaged in breeding Tibetan spaniels. Why such miniature dogs were used for protection is easy to explain: a small dog is easier to feed, and a Tibetan Spaniel, having a magnificent mane, looks like a lion. In Tibetan culture, the lion is revered as a symbol of strength and courage.
The similarity of the Tibetan Spaniel with the common Pekingese is due to the fact that puppies were sometimes given to foreign guests. The first Tibetan spaniels were brought to China and Japan, where they were crossed with the Pekingese and Japanese Khin. Unlike his heirs, the Tibetan Spaniel became known in the world much later.
Outside of Asia, the Tibetan Spaniel was first bred at the end of the 19th century and presented to the English countess. Naturally, the nobility had an interest in the new breed and in 1920 several more spaniels were introduced in England. Breed began to gain popularity in the narrow circles of the English nobility and increases in the livestock. However, during the Second World War, Tibetan spaniels on the territory of England were almost exterminated.
Restoration of the breed in England began in 1947. After receiving several litters, the first breed club was organized. The English Kennel Club recognized the breed in the 1960s.
The following, in the distribution of the breed, attended dog handlers from America. In 1965, the first Tibetan Spaniel was imported to the USA. Naturally, in America, the dog also attracted the attention of connoisseurs and nobles. One of the first owners of a Tibetan Spaniel puppy was the later famous breeder Jay Child. The breeder dedicated her life to breed development. The American Kennel Club recognized the Tibetan Spaniel in 1984.
Character and training
The nature of Tibetan spaniels differ in gullibility and tenderness in relation to all family members. In relation to strangers, dogs can be alert, but not aggressive. Even when living in an apartment, the Tibetan Spaniel exhibits security skills, often barks warning the owner about the violation of territorial boundaries.
Note! Tibetan spaniels have a keenly developed intuition, well feel the mood of the owner and empathizes with him. Representatives of the breed do not tolerate loneliness even for a short time.
The breed standard indicates that Tibetan spaniels are stubborn and difficult to train. According to the owners, this characteristic is distorted. Dogs are easily trained, but in critical situations tend to make independent decisions that may differ from the order of the owner.
Like all dogs with a strong protective instinct, the Tibetan Spaniel needs early and very active socialization. A puppy needs to be walked as often as possible and longer so that it becomes acquainted with the outside world and learns to live in harmony with it. While ignoring socialization, Tibetan spaniels remain restrained towards strangers, but may show aggression towards other dogs.
Important! When walking on unfamiliar territory of the Tibetan Spaniel, you should not let off the leash!
The Tibetan Spaniel treats children well, but may not understand the intrusive attention of younger family members. The breed is more suitable for families with children from the age of 7. With timely socialization, Tibetan spaniels get along well with other dogs and cats.
If you decide to start a Tibetan Spaniel, you need to take into account the fact that they can not be weaned to bark under the door. Many owners have noted that barking is a favorite activity and entertainment of their pets. Breed is suitable for people with not too active lifestyle, as in adulthood the dog does not need serious physical exertion. Tibetan Spaniels are more suitable for slow walks.
Maintenance and care
Tibetan Spaniels are considered as apartment dogs, but they perfectly adapt to living in private homes from the surrounding area. If you live in a private house, it is important to consider the independence of the dog and its tendency to escape. Tibetan Spaniel hard to jump high barriers, so most often they run away after digging a tunnel.
Note! In everyday life, Tibetan spaniels try to please their owner in every way, so they are easily trained. Rapid assimilation of tricks and teams does not guarantee the subordination of a dog in critical situations.
Before buying a puppy, you should be aware of the fact that from the first day in the house and throughout life the dog will bark. Barking for a Tibetan Spaniel, this is one of the tools to express emotions. The dog barks in a state of alertness and this action is instinctive. No exercises and techniques will help wean the Tibetan Spaniel from chewing on strangers near the door.
If you live in a noisy crowded quarter, you should think about restricting the freedom of the dog at least for a while. Being in a state of constant alertness, spaniels experience stress, which leads to fatigue and negative health effects.
Important! Even before buying a puppy, it is advisable to purchase a cage or carrier that will serve as a shelter for the dog. Teach your puppy to return to the place from the first day in the house.
Despite the elegant woolen coat, he does not need special care. During seasonal moulting, the dogs need to be combed daily until complete reflection of the undercoat. The rest of the time, it is enough to comb the dog's hair with a comb once a week. Make sure that the decorating hair on the ears and tail does not get stuck in mats.
Tip: If your dog does not pretend to show career, it is recommended to teach her to haircuts from an early age.
To protect wool from pollution in cloudy weather, it is better to buy a dog a raincoat. Remove the rain cover immediately after the walk to avoid the greenhouse effect and skin irritation. Bathing is not recommended more often four times a year, if the dog is very dirty it can be washed without using shampoo.
Tibetan spaniels may have temporary difficulties with the teeth, at the stage of their shift. Carefully ensure that the milk tooth falls out when the molar begins to grow. If tooth loss does not occur without intervention, it is best to contact a veterinarian. From puppyhood, the Tibetan Spaniel must be taught to care for the oral cavity, since in adulthood, most of the breed have problems with tartar.
Important! At least once a month, shorten the dog's claws, especially if it has not removed dewclaws.
Lowered on the head ears contributes to the development of otitis media, especially in wet weather. Hypothermia, walks in very hot weather and in the rain, swimming in open water can lead to the development of otitis. It is advisable to inspect the ears of a Tibetan spaniel at least once every three days. Preventive cleaning is carried out as needed.
With full compliance with the breed standard, the Tibetan Spaniel should not have eye problems. Если же морда собаки сплюснута может наблюдаться повышенное слезотечение.With allergies or colds, the dog immediately begins conjunctivitis, which is expressed by swelling of the mucous membranes and abundant secretions from the eyes.
If you notice that a puppy often accumulates discharge in the corners of the eyes, it is better to consult a doctor for a routine examination. Since under the guise of Tibetan spaniels often sell mestizos with Pekingese, it is important to make sure that the dog does not have nasolacrimal duct problems.
During the formation of the backbone, the Tibetan Spaniel is better to be driven not by a collar, but by a harness. Modern pet stores offer a large assortment of shlekas for small dogs. For Tibetan Spaniel optimally suited products in the form of vests that distribute pressure throughout the chest.
Experienced breeders recommend feeding Tibetan Spaniels with high-quality industrial feed. A natural diet is also acceptable, provided that you monitor its balance. The problem is that such a small dog is hard to find a balanced diet.
Even in adulthood, it is recommended to feed Tibetan spaniels 2 times a day. Despite the relatively low activity, representatives of the breed have an active temperament and need a lot of energy. A dog cannot physically eat a given portion at a time. Forced one-time feeding will lead to the fact that the pet's stomach will stretch and it will no longer fill up with a normal portion.
Even at puppyhood, Tibetan Spaniel is not recommended to give hard treats, which can lead to teeth curvature. At the teething stage, the puppy needs to purchase special rubber toys with which he can scratch his gums.
Important! Tibetan spaniels are prone to rapid weight gain, so they need to be weighed regularly.
The average life span of a Tibetan Spaniel ranges from 12–15 years. Potentially, the representatives of the breed have good health, but some tendencies to hereditary illnesses are still there.
The first condition for obtaining a healthy dog is buying a puppy in reputable kennels. Puppies must be sold with a package of pedigree documents and conclusions about medical examinations. If surveys have not been carried out, ask the breeder about it. If you received a sharp refusal, draw conclusions and look for another nursery.
Important! Most of the diseases that Tibetan spaniels are prone to are inherited.
Most of the diseases that Tibetan Spaniel owners face relate to musculoskeletal system. Like all dogs with an elongated physique, members of the breed may suffer from sliding disc syndrome and joint dysplasia, especially in old age.
Progressive retinal atrophy is another hereditary disease that is quite common in Tibetan spaniels. Ailment is a degenerative process that gradually leads to blindness. In the process of development of the disease photoreceptors die. Diseases can be diagnosed several years before the onset of blindness with timely examination by an ophthalmologist. Pedigree dogs in kennels must be examined every year.
Due to the physical characteristics of the Tibetan spaniels, there are so-called lowered knee joints. The problem is common not only in Tibetan spaniels, but in most small dogs with an extended physique. A dog with lowered knee joints, with proper care, can live a full life, but it will not participate in breeding work.
a brief description of
- Other names: Tibetan Spaniel, Simkhyi, Tibbie, Tibby.
- Growth: 25-26 cm
- Weight: from 4.0 to 7.0 kg.
- Color: any colors of wool are acceptable, white spots are permissible on paws.
- Wool: double with a thick undercoat, thick, silky, long along the line of the neck and tail.
- Lifespan: up to 16-18 years.
- Breed advantages: Tibby have a dedicated character with an adequate level of intelligence. A characteristic sign of the breed is considered an active life position and bold actions.
- The complexity of the breed: Dogs are stubborn and overly confident. A high level of energy forces the owner to spend more time walking or practicing mobile games.
- Price: up to 1000 euros.
Purpose
In the open spaces of highland Tibet, in the location of the monasteries and the environment of the monks they carried security service small dogs - Tibetan spaniels. The dogs were placed on a dais so that they could see the surroundings around the monastery. The penetrated alien elements of the dog were reported immediately. From the dais, their loud barking resounded loudly.
The Tibby carried a warning function, and the terse Tibetan mastiffs stood guard at the territory, frightening the uninvited guests with their fierce air and monstrous dimensions. So guarded peace of the holy lamas.
In addition, tibby was used as live water heaters, warming the bed of saints with hot bodies. Tibetan spaniels were also attached to the sacred drums. The dogs were charged with rotating mobile structures at the time of the ritual of sacred actions and reading prayers.
Almost everyone who spoke with Tibetan Spaniels, notes high intelligence dogs and special friendliness to those with whom Tibby was previously familiar. A little dog treats strangers with cold disbelief.
In a dog's eye, if you are unfamiliar, you can read a range of negative emotions from contempt to disgust. Family members tibbi love and extremely painful endures forced separation.
These small decorative dogs are endowed with simply monstrous energy, since such a state cannot be simply called mobility. it pulsating clot of energy needing regular exit. Therefore, even a puppy needs to walk a lot and effectively with games, elements of the elementary course of dog training, although these dogs are not sufficiently obedient, but rather self-sufficient and capricious.
The character of the Tibetan spaniel is manifested along with the birth of a puppy. But they are not aggressive and do not bite, but they can spend hours talking about an overflowing soul. So that the whole neighborhood was up to date.
Tibby is apathetic to dressure, and this is the biggest problem of the breed. In order for a Tibetan Spaniel to turn out to be a companion dog, a lot of effort, energy, time and perseverance must be applied. They start raising a dog from the “slider” age, exposing it to the process of socialization as early as possible.
Breed video review
Awesome movie about Tibetan spaniels, however, without translation. But for a person with an average level of knowledge of the English language, it will not be difficult to understand what is at stake.
About the exhibition qualities, appearance, care for the hair of these rare dogs, interspersed with numerous and enthusiastic advice from the English owners of the breed, says the British channel All about dogs:
Dog Nicknames
The dog moves to the new house with the name given by the breeder. All litter is called on one letter of the alphabet in accordance with the nursery pedigree book. The new owner can leave the nickname for the dog, but it can also rename the puppy.
There are no obstacles in the assignment of a puppy's home name, except that the dog in the exhibition annals will appear under the official name with the factory kennel prefix.
At one of the exhibitions attracted the attention of a pretty sensible girl with the sonorous name Manya. When awarding, her official name was sounded - Mirabel Von, and a long, but very beautiful English-language prefix with diamond mines out there almost like King Solomon.
And in everyday life - this is charming Manya, or Zach, Chris, Phil, and the numerous pet names of wonderful pets. The main thing - the sonorous, easy to pronounce and beloved names of dogs.
Care and maintenance
Tibby - indoor dogs. They are not intended for captive content. Even for such a restless breed, like a Tibetan Spaniel, there must be a place in the house where the dog will feel alone and be able to sleep.
If the dog is purchased on the eve of the winter season, the puppy can be taught to use the tray, and with the onset of heat, devote time to walking outside. But it is better to immediately teach your pet to warm things - overalls and slippers, which he was destined to use every winter.
Walking is very important for mobile spaniels. Walking should be long and carry a maximum of physical activity. At first, be sure to praise after each release of the intestines and bladder..
For dogs cannot be prohibited active games with their own kind, even if it seems that the game has dragged out significantly. Tibby's irrepressible energy must be completely exhausted. On a walk in crowded places at the stage of socialization the dog should walk on a leash.
Caring for a pet is simple and consists in thorough regular combing of the wool. One procedure a week is enough to make the dog look great. This does not apply to show dogs that are combed more often. Frequent bathing dog contraindicated. But if the need arises, the wool is immediately dried with a hairdryer or a special compressor.
Behind the ears requires constant care. Ears are cleaned twice a week, and the auricle is checked daily. Eyes are also inspected every day, but periodically washed with special ophthalmic solutions. Claws are clipped as they grow.
Health and heredity
About Tibetan spaniels, we can safely say that dogs have excellent health and strong immunity. But there is a breed predisposition to diseases associated with the freedom of breathing and cardiac activity of the body.
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system are inherited. It is extremely rare to establish the fact of spinal lesions with the formation of intervertebral hernia, bringing severe pain to the dog. Also, veterinarians noted pedigree tendency to allergic dermatitis on the background of flea bites.
The diet of the Tibetan Spaniel is almost no different from feeding dogs of small breeds. Restrictions exist only in the consumption of fat, causing problems with the pancreas.
If the owners prefer to feed the dog dry food, then pick a diet containing the meat of lamb, rabbit or duck, but in no case chicken, because chicken meat can provoke food allergies.
With natural feeding, 2/3 of the ration is given to animal products. Tibetan Spaniel puppies that are naturally fed should be fully fed the nutrients, as well as the elements necessary for growth and development. Therefore, in addition to meat, the menu should include:
- sea fish,
- cottage cheese,
- dairy products,
- eggs,
- Butter as a supplier of vitamin A.
Fruits and vegetables from the dog should be in the daily diet. Water - around the clock. The feeding scheme for puppies and adult dogs is standard, but adult members of the breed are fed at least twice a day.
Advantages and disadvantages
It is not typical for a Tibetan Spaniel to spend time by the side of the host, watching television programs throughout the day. They can not sleep for long, and must constantly move. Bred for service in any weather, dogs easily adapt to seasonal changes.
Modern representatives of the breed are very afraid of drafts and severe frosts, unlike their ancestors, but they tolerate hot summer days as opposed to short-sided brethren. In spite of the fact that the dense wool well protects from an atmospheric precipitation, it is desirable to dress up dogs in bad weather.
Another tibby very affectionate and children are treated with extreme care. Dogs do not pay special attention to other inhabitants of the house, and do not experience aggression towards cats.
Recently, specially trained Tibetan spaniels have been used in the program of canistherapy for their amazing ability to relieve stress and nervous tension in humans.
The disadvantages of the breed include the stubborn and capricious character, as well as the ability to make any decision independently.
Natalia:
His name is Pirate. Came to us three years ago, as a legacy from my grandfather. The dog is almost 16, but I have not met a more reasonable, understanding and loving creature. I didn’t even suspect that so much dignity could fit in a small body. But the only sin for the Pirate is listed. He madly loves sweets, and can even steal, but more often he pity and persistently beg for.
Eugene:
Buying a puppy, oddly enough on a bird, I was sure that I was taking Pekingese. And in this confidence he remained for a whole year, until he was covered with chic wool and began to weigh more than 6 kilos. We took him to the club next door, there we were determined the breed. I am grateful to the fate that so suddenly confronted us with the Tibetan Spaniel - our joy and companion in all events. P.S. Extremely healthy breed.
Larisa:
He does not bark or bite. The dog's voice is heard in rare cases, and then, if something supernatural happened. I got a very sensitive boy. If I am not in the spirit, he will not come close. And if a good mood is always there, looks into his eyes, wags his tail, and is not averse to playing.
