Tibetan Spaniel Pekingese: The Ultimate Guide to This Unique Dog Breed

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Pekinese Dog Laying on a Grass
Credit: pexels.com, Pekinese Dog Laying on a Grass

The Tibetan Spaniel Pekingese is a rare and unique dog breed that will capture your heart with its big eyes and gentle soul. This breed is a result of crossing the Tibetan Spaniel with the Pekingese.

Their coats are a stunning combination of the Tibetan Spaniel's silky texture and the Pekingese's fluffy fur, making them a joy to cuddle and play with. They require regular grooming to prevent matting.

These dogs are known for their calm and gentle nature, making them an excellent choice for families with children or for people who want a low-maintenance pet. They are also relatively small in size, weighing between 10-15 pounds.

Physical Characteristics

The Tibetan Spaniel has a distinctive double-coated dog with moderate-length, silky hair covering their bodies.

Their hair is smooth on the face and front legs, where it lies flat, and feathered on the ears and back of the forelegs.

The neck is covered with a mane of longer hair that is more pronounced on males than females.

Their coat should lie naturally with no teasing, parting, or styling, and the feathering on the toes must not be trimmed.

Size and Weight

Credit: youtube.com, Anthropometric Measurements

The Pekingese and Tibetan Spaniel are both small breeds, but they do have some size and weight differences. The Pekingese is generally smaller than the Tibetan Spaniel.

The weight range for a Pekingese is between 8-10 pounds, while the Tibetan Spaniel weighs between 9-15 pounds. This means the Pekingese is the lighter of the two breeds.

The average weight of a Pekingese is around 9 pounds, while the Tibetan Spaniel's average weight is 12 pounds. So, the Pekingese has a smaller average weight.

In terms of height, the Pekingese is significantly shorter than the Tibetan Spaniel, with a height range of 6-9 inches compared to the Tibetan Spaniel's 10 inches.

Here's a comparison of the average height of both breeds:

This shows that the Tibetan Spaniel is taller than the Pekingese.

Coat and Coloring

The Tibetan Spaniel's coat is truly one of its most striking features. It's double-coated, with a silky texture that's smooth on the face and front legs, where it lies flat.

Credit: youtube.com, A Brief Genetics of Coat Color in Dogs

The hair on the ears and back of the forelegs is feathered, while the tail and buttocks have longer, more luxurious locks. This beautiful coat requires minimal grooming, as it's meant to lie naturally.

The neck is covered with a majestic mane of longer hair, which is more pronounced in males than females. This striking feature is a hallmark of the breed.

All colors and mixtures of colors are allowed, with black, black and tan, cream, gold, red, sable, white, and silver sable being the most common.

You might enjoy: Black Pekingese Dog

Health and Wellbeing

Both the Pekingese and Tibetan Spaniel are relatively low-maintenance breeds when it comes to allergies, as neither is considered hypoallergenic.

The Pekingese has a dense coat that requires regular grooming, with a professional level of maintenance needed to keep it in good condition. They need to be bathed every 4-6 weeks, which can be a challenge for some owners.

The Tibetan Spaniel, on the other hand, has a silky coat that requires less maintenance, with average grooming effort needed. They need to be bathed every 2-3 weeks, which is still more frequent than some breeds.

Credit: youtube.com, Tibetan Spaniel Breed Profile History - Price - Traits - Tibetan Spaniel Grooming Needs - Lifespan

Here's a quick comparison of their grooming needs:

Both breeds have a low drooling tendency, making them a great choice for owners who don't want to deal with slobber. However, they do have a moderate and average chance of bad smell, respectively, so regular grooming and bathing are essential to keep them smelling fresh.

Health and Lifespan

Both Pekingese and Tibetan Spaniel breeds have their own set of health concerns, with some being more prone to genetic issues than others.

The Pekingese is generally a healthy breed, but they can be susceptible to conditions like cataracts, patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, and brachycephalic syndrome.

Tibetan Spaniels, on the other hand, tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds, with no specific genetic health conditions listed in the article, but they can still be prone to respiratory problems due to their brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome.

In terms of lifespan, both breeds have a similar average lifespan, with Pekingese living for 14 years and Tibetan Spaniels living for 13 years.

Brown Tibetan Spaniel Puppy Laying Down on Grass
Credit: pexels.com, Brown Tibetan Spaniel Puppy Laying Down on Grass

Here's a comparison of the two breeds' average lifespans:

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for both breeds, with Pekingese requiring a check-up every 12-18 months and Tibetan Spaniels needing a check-up at least once a year, but preferably twice.

Respiratory problems are a common issue in both breeds, caused by their brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome, which can lead to breathing difficulties and require surgical repair.

Here's an interesting read: English Springer Spaniel Weight

Diet and Weight Management

When managing the diet and weight of your Pekingese or Tibetan Spaniel, it's essential to be aware of their average risk for obesity. Both breeds have an average risk for obesity.

To prevent weight gain, feed your Pekingese 1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. This will help keep them at a healthy weight.

The Tibetan Spaniel, on the other hand, requires a bit more food, with a daily intake of 1/2 to 1 cup of dry food.

Here's a comparison of their food needs:

Allergies and Grooming

Head of Tibetan Spaniel Dog
Credit: pexels.com, Head of Tibetan Spaniel Dog

If you're considering bringing a Pekingese or Tibetan Spaniel into your home, you should know that both breeds have some allergy concerns. Neither breed is considered hypoallergenic, so if you or a family member has allergies, you may want to think twice.

Both Pekingese and Tibetan Spaniel require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur. However, the Pekingese needs a lot of work to keep in good condition, while the Tibetan Spaniel requires average grooming effort.

If you're looking for a low-maintenance dog breed, the Pekingese is not the best choice. On the other hand, the Tibetan Spaniel is a better option if you're not willing or able to commit to regular grooming.

Here's a quick comparison of the grooming needs of both breeds:

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and lifestyle. If you're willing to commit to regular grooming, either breed can make a wonderful companion.

Temperament and Behavior

Tibetan Spaniel Dog in Close-up Shot
Credit: pexels.com, Tibetan Spaniel Dog in Close-up Shot

Tibetan Spaniels are assertive and intelligent dogs with independent spirits, making them great watchdogs.

They value their roles as watchdogs, but also form close bonds with their owners and make friendly, playful companions. Tibetan Spaniels can be aloof with strangers.

Tibetan Spaniels have a sensitivity level that doesn't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.

They are sensitive companion animals that want to be with their owners and will be unhappy when left alone for too long.

Tibetan Spaniels have an average prey drive, meaning they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small animal, but it might happen.

Pekingese dogs, on the other hand, have a high impulse to chase and catch something, making them more suitable for hunting.

Here's a comparison of the social needs of Tibetan Spaniels and Pekingese:

Tibetan Spaniels are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers, making them one of the most affectionate dog breeds.

Pekingese dogs are also high in affection level, but they have average wanderlust potential, making them less likely to roam or wander off.

Overall, both breeds have unique temperaments and behaviors that make them great companions for the right owner.

Ownership and Experience

A Monk Holding a Tibetan Singing Bowl
Credit: pexels.com, A Monk Holding a Tibetan Singing Bowl

Tibetan spaniels can make great pets for first-time owners, but it's essential to be aware of their temperament. They are generally easy-going and not as stubborn as Pekingese.

Pekingese, on the other hand, can be quite stubborn, as noted by a first-hand experience from a reviewer who has had both breeds. They require patient and consistent training.

For those considering bringing either breed into their home, it's worth noting that Tibetan spaniels are relatively low-maintenance pets.

Price and Availability

If you're considering bringing either a Pekingese or a Tibetan Spaniel into your family, you'll want to know about their price and availability.

The price range for a Pekingese is relatively affordable, falling between $600-$800.

The Tibetan Spaniel, on the other hand, tends to be pricier, with a range of $800-$1000.

If you're having trouble finding a Pekingese, don't worry - they're quite easy to get, with a very frequent availability.

The Tibetan Spaniel, while not as readily available as the Pekingese, is still relatively easy to find, with a frequent availability.

Here's a quick comparison of the two breeds' price and availability:

Reviews

Photograph of Tibetan Spaniel Dogs
Credit: pexels.com, Photograph of Tibetan Spaniel Dogs

Reviews from experienced owners can be a valuable resource for potential owners.

Some owners have reported that Pekingese can be very stubborn, which may not be suitable for first-time owners.

A reviewer with firsthand experience noted that Pekingese are more stubborn than Tibetan Spaniels.

In contrast, Tibetan Spaniels are often described as not being as stubborn as Pekingese.

Reproducibility

When bringing a new furry friend into your family, one of the most important things to consider is their reproducibility. This refers to the process of breeding and the physical and emotional demands it puts on the mother.

Pekingese and Tibetan Spaniel breeds have relatively small litters, typically ranging from 2-4 puppies and 3-6 puppies respectively.

Breeding frequency is also an essential aspect of reproducibility. Both Pekingese and Tibetan Spaniel breeds should be bred only once a year, as more frequent breeding can be detrimental to their health.

Here's a comparison of the breeding frequencies of Pekingese and Tibetan Spaniel breeds:

Pregnancy duration is also a crucial factor in reproducibility. Both Pekingese and Tibetan Spaniel breeds have a pregnancy duration of 60-64 days.

Recognition

Pekingese Brown Dog
Credit: pexels.com, Pekingese Brown Dog

When considering bringing a Pekingese or Tibetan Spaniel into your family, it's essential to understand their recognition status. The American Kennel Club recognized the Pekingese as a Toy breed in 1906, while the Tibetan Spaniel was recognized as a Non-Sporting breed in 1983.

The Pekingese has a long history of recognition, with the American Canine Registry, American Kennel Club, America's Pet Registry, Canadian Kennel Club, Dog Registry of America Inc., Federation Cynologique Internationale, Kennel Club of Great Britain, North American Purebred Registry, Inc., American Canine Association, Inc., Australian National Kennel Council, National Kennel Club, New Zealand Kennel Club, and United Kennel Club all recognizing the breed.

The Tibetan Spaniel, however, has limited recognition compared to the Pekingese. While it is recognized by the Federation Cynologique Internationale in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Tibetan breeds section, it does not have the same level of recognition as the Pekingese.

Here's a comparison of the recognition status of the Pekingese and Tibetan Spaniel:

The Pekingese's widespread recognition across various kennel clubs can give you peace of mind when considering ownership.

General Information

Credit: youtube.com, Tibetan Spaniel - Top 10 Facts

The Tibetan Spaniel Pekingese is a unique breed that requires attention to its grooming needs. They have a long, flowing coat that sheds heavily, so regular brushing is a must to prevent matting.

Their calm and gentle nature makes them a great companion for families with children. They are relatively small in size, weighing between 9-15 pounds.

Their short snout and flat face can make breathing difficult, especially in hot or humid weather. This is why it's essential to keep them cool and provide plenty of fresh water.

Their intelligence and trainability make them easy to teach basic commands and housebreaking. With patience and consistency, they can learn to be well-behaved and obedient.

Their history dates back to ancient times, with the Tibetan Spaniel originating in the Himalayas and the Pekingese being a favorite of Chinese royalty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Tibetan Spaniels related to Pekingese?

Yes, Tibetan Spaniels and Pekingese are closely related breeds that developed in China around the same time period. They share a common ancestry but have distinct physical characteristics, making them unique breeds.

Are Tibetan Spaniels related to Shih Tzu?

Tibetan Spaniels may share a common ancestry with Shih Tzus, but their exact relationship is still unclear. Some experts believe they could be related to several other breeds, including the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese

Erma Pacocha

Lead Writer

Erma Pacocha is a dedicated and passionate writer with a knack for crafting engaging content on a wide range of topics. Her expertise lies in the realm of animal care and welfare, where she has honed her skills in researching and writing about various breeds and their unique characteristics. With a focus on mixed-breed dogs, Erma has written extensively on the Pitbull Lab Mix, exploring its temperament, health, and training needs.

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