Non-sporting breeds: Tibetan Spaniel

Origin
    Originally bred in Tibetan monasteries, the Tibetan Spaniel was thought to bring luck and acted as an alert sentry who barked at a stranger's approach. They were also cherished gifts at Buddhist palaces across China. Tibetan monks believed that no spiritual difference existed between people and dogs and so they treated their pets with great care. The close relationship between Tibetan Spaniels and modern families today may reflect this ancient bond. The breed was well recognized in both China and Tibet by the 15th century, but it wasn't until 1920 that the first Tibetan Spaniels were imported to England. By the close of World War II, the breed was popular in Britain as a family pet; in the 1960s, it made its debut in North America.

General description