Understanding Tibetan Spaniel Health Issues and Care

Tibetan Spaniels are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Hip dysplasia is a common issue in Tibetan Spaniels, with 33% of the breed affected.

Regular exercise is essential to keep your Tibetan Spaniel healthy and happy. A daily walk and playtime should be a priority.

Tibetan Spaniels can be sensitive to the cold, so they require a warm and cozy living space. They also need regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their beautiful coats.

Tibetan Spaniels typically live between 12-15 years, with some living up to 18 years with proper care.

Brushing your Tibetan Spaniel's teeth daily is crucial to prevent periodontal disease. This simple habit can save you and your furry friend a lot of trouble down the line.

Regular dental care can also help prevent tartar build-up, bad breath, red gums, or broken teeth. These are all signs of periodontal disease, which can be painful and even lead to more serious health issues.

Tartar build-up, bad breath, and red gums can be warning signs of a bigger problem. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's essential to take action quickly.

Here are some common signs of potential health issues in Tibetan Spaniels:

Tibetan Spaniels can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions that can cause blindness if not treated right away.

Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Tibetan Spaniels, where the lenses of their eyes become more opaque, looking cloudy instead of clear.

Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may be an option for many dogs.

Entropion is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea, which is an extremely irritating and painful condition that can ultimately lead to blindness.

Entropion can happen in any dog breed, but Tibetan Spaniels are especially at risk for this heritable disorder.

Surgical correction is usually successful if performed early.

Cherry eye is a condition that occurs when the gland in the third eyelid becomes sore or swollen, looking like a red blob in the corner of the eye.

It's more common in puppies or young Tibetan Spaniels and can occur very suddenly in one or both eyes.

If cherry eye happens, it may be treated with ointment first, but surgery is often the best option.

Tibbies are susceptible to a condition called Patent Ductus Arteriosis, in which a small vessel that carries blood between two parts of the heart does not close shortly after birth as it should.

This results in too much blood being carried to the lungs, fluid build-up, and strain on the heart. Outward signs may be mild or you may see coughing, fatigue during exercise, weight loss, shortness of breath, or weakness in the heart.

A specific type of heart murmur is a key indicator of this problem, which veterinarians listen for during examinations. If your pal has this condition, surgery to close the problematic vessel may be recommended.

Musculoskeletal issues can be a significant concern for Tibetan Spaniels. Obesity can cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease.

Weight control is crucial in preventing back problems, which can be caused by intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This disease can lead to severe pain, paralysis, and even death if not treated promptly.

Symptoms of IVDD include sudden inability or unwillingness to jump up, go up stairs, or move around. A hunched back, crying out, or refusing to eat or go potty are also red flags.

Patellar luxation, or kneecap slipping out of place, is another common issue in Tibetan Spaniels. Mild cases may only require arthritis medication, while severe cases may need surgery to realign the kneecap.

Elbow dysplasia, a condition where the joint doesn't form properly, can also cause pain and inflammation.

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Back problems can be a significant issue in Tibetan Spaniels. Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a common condition in Tibbies, caused by the jelly-like cushion between vertebrae slipping or rupturing, pressing on the spinal cord.

If your dog is suddenly unable or unwilling to jump up, go up stairs, or move around, he's likely in severe pain. He may even drag his back feet or be paralyzed and unable to get up or use his back legs.

Weight control is crucial in preventing back problems, as excess weight can put additional stress on the spine. Using ramps or steps from puppyhood can also help prevent back issues by reducing the need for jumping on and off furniture.

If you see symptoms, don't wait – call an emergency clinic or veterinarian immediately. For less severe cases, rest and medication may resolve the problem, but in cases involving paralysis, surgical removal of the ruptured discs is often necessary.

Your Tibbie's kneecap (patella) may slip out of place, a condition called patellar luxation. This can cause your dog to suddenly pick up a back leg and skip or hop for a few strides.

You might notice your dog kicking their leg out sideways to pop the kneecap back in place, and they're fine again. However, if the problem is severe, surgery may be needed to realign the kneecap to keep it from popping out of place.

Mild patellar luxation that involves only one leg may not require much treatment beyond arthritis medication.

Having your Tibetan Spaniel spayed or neutered is one of the best decisions you can make for her health.

Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies.

This surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop, such as hip problems or puppy teeth that need to be extracted.

Routine blood testing prior to surgery helps us to identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk.

We'll discuss the specific problems we'll be looking for when the time arrives, so you can feel confident and informed about your pet's care.

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Taking care of a Tibetan Spaniel is all about common sense and routine. Watch her diet, make sure she gets plenty of exercise, and brush her teeth and coat regularly.

Supervise your pet as you would a toddler, keeping doors closed and picking up after yourself to keep her out of trouble. Brush her coat at least weekly, and her teeth at least three times a week to prevent serious problems.

Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy, to prevent infections. Tibetan Spaniels are well suited to apartment life, but they need daily walks and frequent play sessions to stay happy and healthy.

Keep your dog's diet consistent, avoiding people food, and feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. Exercise your dog regularly, but don't overdo it at first to prevent overexertion.

Here's a summary of daily care tasks:

Tibetan Spaniels have small stomachs, so they should only consume between ¾ to 1 cup of high-quality food a day, split into two equal meals. Be sure to consider your dog's size, age, metabolism, and activity level when creating her feeding plan.

The Tibetan Spaniel is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Patellar Luxation, a condition where the kneecap becomes dislocated, is one such issue that can cause pain and lameness.

Some common health concerns in Tibetan Spaniels include infections, allergies, and kidney disease. Infections, such as parvo, rabies, and distemper, can be prevented with vaccination. Allergies, on the other hand, can cause symptoms like watery eyes and scratching, and are often treatable with proper diet and flea prevention.

Tibetan Spaniels are also prone to kidney disease, specifically renal dysplasia, which can cause excessive water consumption, poor appetite, and vomiting. It's essential to monitor your dog's health closely and seek veterinary help if you notice any abnormal symptoms.

Tibetan Spaniels are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections, the same ones that all dogs can get.

Parvo, rabies, and distemper are just a few examples of the infections they can contract.

Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which is recommended based on the diseases seen in the area and other factors.

Vaccination is a crucial step in protecting your Tibetan Spaniel from these preventable infections.

As a Tibetan Spaniel owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health concerns that can affect your furry friend.

Allergies are a common issue among Tibetan Spaniels, and they can cause itchy skin, hair loss, and even ear infections. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year.

Tibetan Spaniels are also prone to fleas, which can cause allergic reactions. In fact, flea saliva is the main culprit behind flea allergies in dogs.

It's crucial to monitor your Tibetan Spaniel's behavior and watch for any abnormal symptoms. Some common signs of illness include changes in appetite or water consumption, tartar build-up, bad breath, red gums, or broken teeth.

Here are some red flags to look out for:

By being aware of these potential health concerns, you can take proactive steps to ensure your Tibetan Spaniel stays happy and healthy.

Epilepsy is a common health concern in dogs, and it's essential to understand the different types of seizures that can occur. There are three types: reactive, secondary, and primary.

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Reactive seizures are caused by a brain's reaction to a metabolic problem, such as low blood sugar, organ failure, or a toxin. This can happen to any dog, but some breeds are more prone to it.

Tibetan Spaniels are commonly afflicted with epilepsy, and it's often an inherited condition. If your dog has a seizure, it's usually between six months and three years of age.

If your dog is prone to seizures, an initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to keep seizures under control.

If your dog has a seizure, carefully prevent him from injuring himself, but don't try to control his mouth or tongue. It won't help him, and he may bite you accidentally!

Note the length of the seizure, and call a veterinarian or an emergency hospital. Periodic blood testing is required to monitor side effects and effectiveness of medication.

Kidney Disease is a serious concern for Tibbies. They are prone to renal dysplasia, a genetic form of kidney disease that can affect your dog as early as puppyhood.

Excessive drinking of water and urine production are common signs of renal dysplasia. This can be a significant change in your dog's behavior, and it's essential to monitor their water intake and output closely.

Poor appetite or weight loss are also indicative of kidney disease. If your dog is not eating or is losing weight, it's crucial to take them to the vet for a check-up.

Treatment for renal dysplasia may include medication, fluid therapy, and a special diet. Your vet will work with you to develop a treatment plan that's tailored to your dog's specific needs.

If your dog shows signs of kidney disease, it's essential to perform diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis. This will help your vet determine the best course of treatment for your dog.

Kidney Stones are painful for Tibetan Spaniels, and they're more likely to develop them than other breeds.

We'll periodically test your buddy's urine for signs indicating the presence of kidney and bladder stones, so it's essential to keep an eye out for any changes in their urination habits.

If your buddy has blood in their urine, can't urinate, or is straining to urinate, it's a medical emergency and you should call us immediately.

As a Tibetan Spaniel owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can arise in your furry friend. If you notice any of these signs, seek medical care immediately: scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge.

These symptoms can be indicative of a serious underlying issue, such as an ear infection or an allergic reaction. Inability or straining to urinate, discolored urine, and cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes are also cause for concern.

As your Tibetan Spaniel ages, they may experience joint issues. Cartilage plays an important role in optimal joint function, and as they age, it can lose its ability to replenish itself. Consider adding Cosequin, a recommended supplement, to their diet.

Here are some signs of potential health issues in older Tibetan Spaniels:

Remember to check your dog's parents' pedigree to ensure there isn't a history of Liver Shunt, a common issue in Tibetan Spaniels.

If you notice any of the following signs, seek medical care immediately. These can be indicative of serious health issues that require prompt attention.

Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge are all potential warning signs that need to be taken seriously.

Inability or straining to urinate, along with discolored urine, are also emergency situations that demand medical attention.

Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes are all reasons to seek help right away.

Slow or stunted growth, sometimes accompanied by seizures after eating, can be a sign of a serious underlying condition.

Facts to keep in mind:

As our pets begin to age, they are affected by many of the same problems their owners face as they age.

Articular cartilage plays an important role in optimal joint function.

Cosequin is a common supplement recommended to help with joint issues in older pets.

Check your dog's parents pedigree to make sure there is not a history of Liver Shunt.

As we age, our furry friends do too, and it's essential to be prepared for the unexpected. The Tibetan Spaniel's lifespan is a significant concern, with an average of 12 to 15 years.

Knowing this can help you plan for future vet visits and potential health issues.

The Tibetan Spaniel is a breed with a rich history, originating from Tibet and serving as a loving companion and trusted watchdog for monks living in the mountains. They were trained to act as guard dogs to alert them of any danger.

These small dogs were also a popular companion among nobility and people of elite status in their early history. They even expanded past Asia and made their way to England and the United States in the 19th century.

The Tibetan Spaniel has a long history, with records dating back to ancient times. They were used as an alarm system for monks living high in the mountains.

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As a Tibetan Spaniel owner, you want to ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy. Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense.

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to detect any potential health issues early on. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that your veterinarian recommends.

Brushing your Tibetan Spaniel's coat regularly is essential for her overall health. Brush her coat at least weekly to prevent matting and tangling.

Dental care is also vital for Tibetan Spaniels, who often have serious problems with their teeth. Brush your dog's teeth at least three times a week to prevent dental issues.

Here are some general guidelines for home care:

Signing up for pet health insurance is also an important step in caring for your Tibetan Spaniel. This will help cover the costs of medical tests and procedures she may need throughout her life.