Origin
This breed originated in Tibet. It is believed to be descended from the Pekingese, the Pug, and the Japanese Spaniel (Chin). Highly esteemed in ancient Tibet, they were often given as gifts to royal houses and the dogs were spread throughout Asia. Depictions of the dogs were found on early Eastern art dating back as far as 1100 BC. The dogs worked turning the prayer wheel for their masters and also as watch dogs in the Tibetan monasteries. They would sit up on the high walls and bark at anything they believed didn't belong. The breed was first introduced to England in the late 1800s.
Description
The Tibetan Spaniel is often mistaken for the Pekingese, the differences being that the Tibetan Spaniel has a less profuse coat, slightly longer face and does not have the extra skin around the eyes. The body is somewhat longer than tall. The slightly domed head is mall in proportion to the body. The blunt muzzle is medium length without any wrinkles with a slight but defined stop. The nose is black. The dark brown eyes are set well apart, oval in shape and medium in size. Teeth should meet in an undershot or level bite. The front legs are slightly bowed and the feet are hare-like. The well-feathered tail is set high and carried over the back. The Silky double-coat lays flat, is short and smooth on the face and front of the legs and medium length on the body. The neck is covered in a mane of hair which is more prominent in males. There is feathering between the toes that often hangs out over the feet
| Size | Small |
| Colour | The coat comes in all colors, solid, multi-colored or shaded, including fawn, red, gold, cream, white, black and black and tan, often with white markings on the feet. |
| Coat Length | Long |
| Weight/Height Range | Dogs and bitches should measure between 21 - 26cms and weigh around 4.1 - 6.8kgs. |
| Ailments | Prone to respiratory problems and heat stroke. |
Feeding & Ownership
The Affen is an undemanding dog to feed with no special dietary requirements. They generally have a good appetite although occasionally they may become fussy eaters. There is a tendency to overeat and become overweight if a careful watch is not kept on their food consumption.
| Food Cost | $5 to $10 |
Personality
The Tibetan Spaniel is cheerful, happy, charming, very clever, and trusting. This breed is a fine family companion, very independent and a good watchdog. They are not yappy, yet will bark at intruders and odd noises. They can move fairly quickly. This breed gets along with dogs and other animals. Do not over-pamper or overprotect these little dogs as they are likely to develop small dog syndrome. Which is a human induced behaviour they can display behaviours such as acting timid, demanding, willfulness and obsessive barking, however puppies should be well-socialised let them meet different people and animals in a positive environment, this way they will be exposure to a variety of situations
| Intelligence | Tibetan Spaniels can be slightly difficult to train, they are very sensitive for harsh words and should never be trained with a hard approach. |
| Energy | Medium |
| Suitability for Children | Medium |
| Tendency to Bark | High |
| Overall Exercise Requirement | The Tibetan Spaniel requires moderate exercise, which includes a daily walk. They will also enjoy a run in a off leash park. |
| Suitability as a Guard Dog | High |
| Ease of Transportation | High |
| Level of Aggression | Medium |
| Other Animal Compatibility | Medium |
Grooming
Comb and brush the coat regularly.
| Grooming Requirements | Twice a week |
| Amount of Hair Shed | Moderate |
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