Welcome to the Northern Tibetan Spaniel Club

Established 1977.

About Tibetan Spaniels

Tibetan Spaniels are a very intelligent breed, coming from the mountainous regions of Tibet. Originally, Tibetan Spaniels were bred in monasteries and held in high regard by Tibetan monks; they are a sociable breed, who take great pleasure in being surrounded by human company and dogs alike; it is not recommended that Tibbies be left in solitary for any length of time. 

Tibbies were prized possessions of the Tibetan Monks and could never be bought, monks would gift the dogs to esteemed friends, a gift of value and respect. The Tibetan Spaniels should have dignity, be proud animals; they are strong, independent creatures but will ‘play ball’ when they wish to do so, a strong willed but united with its owner. 

Monks would often utilise Tibetan Spaniels as watchdogs, barking from the Tibetan Spaniels would warn of approaching guests. A serviceable trait to possess, Tibetan Spaniels utilise this in today’s society to warn homeowners of unwanted visitors. During their time at the monasteries, Tibbies, as they are affectionately known, would ‘keep watch’ from a high up place, perhaps a wall; this trait has been translated into more modern times with Tibbies occasionally enjoying making their way onto windowsills to ‘keep watch’, often described as ‘being nosey’. Whilst Tibetan Spaniels are known for keeping watch, they should not be considered ‘guard dogs’, they should never show sign of aggression and certainly should never bite. 

The average life of a Tibetan Spaniel is thought to be 15 to 16 years old, a healthy breed, an active breed, a loving breed, inquisitive (nosey). Tibetan Spaniels are known to sit on just about anything, particularly something soft, they will not think twice about acquiring anything they like, such as towels or linen or even clean washing.

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