Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan Spaniel is a small dog breed belonging to Tibet. They have rounded heads with short muzzles and big eyes.
Breed Profile
Height
9 - 10
Inches
Weight
9 - 15
Pounds
Life Span
12 – 15
Years
Health
health
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
What is it?:
Progressive Retinal Atrophy is a genetic condition caused by the degeneration of the tissue of the eye which affects the retina.
Clinical signs
One of the first signs is loss of night vision progressively
Dilation of both pupils
Decrease in the color of the pigment of the eye
Cataract formation
The eye may become gray with a glass-like sheen on it
Eyes may start to look cloudy
The dog may bump into objects because of unclear vision
The day vision degenerates and ultimately leads to total blindness
Reluctance in walking on stairs
Treatment
There is no permanent cure for this condition. Antioxidants are said to reduce the progression of this condition. Lutein which is a carotenoid supplement has been discovered but is only useful in the early stages of the disease. Vision loss cannot be reversed in cases and the only solution is to let the dog get used to the condition and adapt to their surroundings.
Eligible vet bill
$2,000
*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://www.spotpetinsurance.ca/sample-policy for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.
health
Epilepsy
What is it?:
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder where the brain activity is abnormal and can cause seizures, sensations, loss of awareness or unusual behavior.
Clinical signs
The symptoms of Epilepsy in Tibetan Spaniels are:
Stiffness in the muscles
There is a spell of staring
Jerking in the arms and legs which may be uncontrollable
Unconscious spells
Symptoms of psychological distress such as fear, anxiety, and déjà vu
The symptoms of Epilepsy may have a particular pattern and repetition
Treatment
Epilepsy is not completely curable; it is only treatable. It is a high possibility that your dog may be on medication for the rest of its life. Antiepileptic drug therapy can be given to make sure that the epileptic episodes are reduced over a period of time. Various supplements such as Chinese herbs can be given to control seizures.
Eligible vet bill
$2,000
*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://www.spotpetinsurance.ca/sample-policy for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.
Personality
Loyal
They may be aloof to strangers but they are very loving to their families. They like to be close to their owner and do not do well when left alone.
Alert
The Tibetan spaniel is loving towards their family but can be aloof to strangers. They are believed to be great watchdogs.
Intelligent
They are a smart dog breed with an independent streak. They love toys such as puzzles that help stimulate their brain.
Lifetime Care
Coat
The Tibetan spaniel has a double coat that is silky and flat. The coat around their face has also earned them the name, lion’s mane.
Colors
Their coats can be black, cream, tan, red, white, gold and sable.
Hypoallergenic
No
Grooming
The Tibetan spaniel has a coat which is short and does not require much grooming. It needs to be brushed a few times a week to keep it detangled and prevent matting. Their ears need occasional cleaning along with teeth brushing and nail trimming.
Training
The Tibetan spaniel is smart but can be stubborn while training. They need to start training at an early age for better results. They should be taught with positive praise and treats to keep them invested.
Tibetan Spaniel: Introduction to the Breed
The Tibetan spaniel is an old dog breed and is not actually a spaniel. These dogs were found in Buddhist monasteries and bred by monks to serve as watchdogs. They were also taught to spin the prayer wheels for the monks and were believed to sleep beside them to provide them warmth. Their existence dates back to 1100 via proof in various paintings. They were called lions because of their lion-like mane. In the 19th to 20th century this breed was brought to England from Tibet by missionaries.
Tibetan Spaniel Physical Characteristics:
Short muzzle
Small sized
Big eyes
Has an underbite
Lion-like mane
Tibetan Spaniel is Best suited for pet owners:
Who wants a gentle family dog
Who have kids
Who may live in an apartment
Who wants a guard dog
Who can spend time on their grooming
Things to know before deciding to own a Tibetan spaniel
The Tibetan spaniel is very social and needs constant human presence. They do not like to be left alone.
They are a loving breed but can be awkward around strangers.
The Tibetan spaniel has been said to have a stubborn personality but it is nothing that cannot be solved by training.
The Tibetan spaniels are not only great to watch dogs but also laidback when home.
They are great at adapting to an apartment as they may be active but they do not require that much exercise.
What should a Tibetan spaniel eat?
The Tibetan spaniel needs to be given food that is high in protein and nutrients. They should be given food that is appropriate for their size. Fresh water should be accessible at all times to keep them hydrated.
Conclusion
The Tibetan Spaniel may be known to be reserved with strangers but they are loving and caring towards their family. They need attention and do not do well alone. They love to be around their family and are very affectionate even towards children. They are the best choice if you are looking for a family dog that does not require too much space and can adapt itself to an apartment. They also do not have major exercise needs which makes them the perfect house pet! The only thing they require is good training to get them used to socializing.
Happy Mood and Health to your Doggo and lots of Love and Licks to you!
Sources:
En.wikipedia.org
Thesprucepets.com
Hillspet.com