I'm learning so much about the history of dog breeds from the posts on this topic.
The Tibetan Spaniel originated in the buddhist monasteries of Tibet where they were greatly honoured by the monks who believed that the spirits of dead monks returned in these little dogs. It is said that the tibbies turned prayer wheels, just like the monks did. They also were great bed warmers in the cold climate & sometimes the monks wore the smaller tibbies in their sleeves as sleeve-warmers.
The tibbies were so valued by the monks, that only other buddhist monasteries or royal courts of asia were allowed to own them. Tibet's borders were closed to foreigners for centuries so it was not until the early 20th century that English visitors were able to bring some of the dogs to the West. Today, tibbies are a much-loved breed in many countries.
Even tho' they are called 'Spaniels', they are not a spaniel...that just seemed to be the nearest description that westerners could think of for these unusual little dogs. Tibbies have a special temperament...in the East , they were said to be 1/3 cat (self-possessed & calm), 1/3 dog (loyal & loving) & 1/3 monkey (intelligent & fun- loving). That's why tibbie owners become so attached to the breed. To learn more about Tibetan Spaniels, go to http://www.tibbies.net
Tibetan Spaniels are the small breed of Tibet, Tibetan Terriers are medium-sized (& look a bit like smaller Old English Sheepdogs), & Tibetan Mastiffs are the big fellows...but they have beautiful, calm faces .