Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 1st March 2026
Tibetan Spaniel
By
Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 1st March 2026
The Tibetan Spaniel nicknamed the Tibbie, was bred as a watchdog and companion for Buddhist monasteries. It has a flattened snout, curved tail, beady eyes, and a fluffy mane around its neck, earning the title “little lion.” Despite similarities in appearance, this breed is unrelated to the Spaniels in the West. It comes from the Spanish “epagnuel,” referring to a companion or comfort dog in the Middle Ages. In Tibet, it is called “Simkhyi,” meaning housedog or bedroom dog, stemming from the practice of monks keeping it as a bed warmer during the harsh Tibetan winter.
Tibetan Spaniel Pictures
Quick Information
| Other names | Tibbie, Simkhyi |
| Coat | Medium-long and silky double-coat |
| Color | Fawn, red, gold, black and tan, cream, white, and parti, with some white markings allowed |
| Breed type | Purebred |
| Group | Non-Sporting, Toy |
| Life expectancy | 12 – 15 years |
| Size | Small |
| Height | 9 – 10 inches |
| Weight | 9 – 15 pounds |
| Litter Size | 3-6 puppies |
| Behavioral Characteristics | Affectionate, playful, assertive, intelligent, and independent |
| Good with children | Yes |
| Barking Tendency | Moderate; they bark to alert their owners |
| Climate compatibility | Moderate; they do well in cold, snowy climates |
| Apartment compatibility | High |
| Do they shed | They shed moderately year-round, with a heavier seasonal shed |
| Are they hypoallergenic | No |
| Trainability | Moderate; they can be stubborn and uninterested |
| How much do they cost | $1,500 – $2,000 |
| Competitive Registration Qualification/ Information | FCI, UKC, AKC |
| Country | Tibet |
History and Origin
The earliest evidence of this ancient breed is in Eastern art from 1,100 BC, nearly three thousand years ago, and on jade pieces from 1644 AD. Its ancestry is still unclear, with some theorizing it was the predecessor of Lhasa Apsos, Shih Tzus, and Pekingese. Serving as a watchdog for Buddhist monasteries in tandem with Tibetan Mastiffs, it kept watch. It alerted the larger dogs when a threat appeared. Taking advantage of its small size and agreeable nature, monks often used it for warmth during colder months. A beloved part of Tibetan culture, officials never sold but gave it away as political gifts to dignitaries from places such as China and Japan.
This breed first came to England in the late 1890s by returning British missionaries. However, it failed to gain prominence till after WWII. With imports into America beginning in the 1960s, the first litter in the US was born in 1965, leading to the establishment of the Tibetan Spaniel Club of America in 1971. The AKC recognized it in 1984, followed closely by the FCI in 1987.
Temperament and Personality
Tibetan Spaniels are loyal and loving, forming incredibly close bonds with family. These social dogs crave company, always staying near others and eagerly participating in family bonding. As a result, they should not be left alone for too long to avoid separation anxiety. Their small stature makes them great apartment pets; however, younger kids might hurt them in their enthusiasm, so owners must take necessary precautions. Owing to their pedigree as sentinels, they love climbing higher surfaces to use as a lookout perch, so one must be careful not to let them fall. They are highly protective and wary of strangers, barking loudly in a “Tibbie scream” to catch attention. Initially, their independent streak might make training tedious. Still, with enough care and attention, they become intelligent, affectionate, and playful companions.
Care
Exercise
They require moderate exercise, content with one or two half-an-hour or hour-long daily walks. They may even join their owners on jogs but overheat quickly due to their smushed noses, so avoid vigorous activity. Outdoor playtime in a fenced yard and games such as fetch and puzzle toys are excellent for mental stimulation. These active and clever dogs do well in sports such as rally, obedience, and scent work.
Grooming
Despite their fluffy coat, they do not require much grooming to stay healthy. Brushing weekly with a slicker or pin brush is enough to manage shedding, except during the seasonal shed, where more frequent care is required. Attention should be paid to the fur on their rear, as it tends to mat the most. Bathing every four to six weeks is sufficient to remove dirt. Avoid over-bathing as it dries out their skin.
Many opt for professional grooming. However, it would be best to prevent a “sanitary cut” of the hair on the legs and belly. Otherwise, your pet will scratch that area. Trim their nails regularly. Brush their teeth daily to prevent tartar build-up.
Health Problems
Generally a healthy breed, they can suffer from patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, liver shunt, cherry eye, and allergies. Buying from a reputed breeder can help eliminate the risk of many of these problems and ensure a long life.
Feeding
They do well on high-quality food for small dogs. A daily intake of three-fourths to one cup, either store-bought or homemade, is recommended for adult dogs. Tibetan Spaniels have a propensity for obesity, so avoid overfeeding. Always provide fresh, clean water. You should consult your veterinarian while formulating a meal plan to account for age, weight, and activity levels.
Training
Tibetan Spaniels are independent and headstrong, only wanting to do what they wish. Thus, training should start early to have a well-rounded and well-behaved companion.
Socialization: You must immediately start socialization when you get your dog home. Keep sessions enjoyable and dynamic to avoid stubbornness. They respond eagerly to positive techniques such as praise and reward. Treats are a helpful tool to help teach new commands. Puppy classes are a fantastic way of introducing them to new people and environments. The best results are obtained when enrolled at around twelve weeks old.
Leash: Always walk your pet on a leash, as it can get distracted by sights and smells. As a housedog, it is unsuitable for outdoor living or kennels. However, providing a secure, fenced yard for playtime is vital.
Obedience: It is advisable to teach your pet a command to stop barking to avoid noise complaints. Despite being reasonably easy to housetrain, crate training can help prevent chewing tendencies. Clicker training is another favored method to encourage good behavior.
Interesting Facts
- It is one of the three native Tibetan non-sporting dogs, alongside the Tibetan Terrier and the Lhasa Apso.
- This breed is rare, ranking 127th in the list of varieties maintained by the AKC.
- The character of “Peg,” voiced by singer Janelle Monae in the live-action remake of the Disney classic “Lady and the Tramp,” is a Tibetan Spaniel who befriends the main protagonist, Lady.
