Caring for your Tibetan Spaniel

Quick answer

The Tibetan Spaniel is a sturdy and intelligent companion, but like all breeds, they have specific health areas that require proactive attention. Owners should focus on maintaining a lean body weight, providing consistent mental stimulation, and ensuring their environment is safe for their joints. Regular monitoring of their vision, mobility, and heart health is the best way to catch potential issues early.

Progressive retinal atrophy

Progressive retinal atrophy, or PRA, involves a gradual decline in the health of the cells within the retina. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. Owners often notice this first when their dog seems hesitant or clumsy in dim lighting, or when they appear to struggle with navigation in unfamiliar environments. During a physical examination, your vet will perform an ophthalmic exam to look for changes at the back of the eye. A specialist veterinary ophthalmologist can perform specific electrodiagnostic tests to confirm the condition. How this passes down is not settled, so it is important to observe any changes in your dog's sight promptly.

Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a condition where the hip joint does not fit together perfectly, leading to abnormal wear and discomfort. This is well recognised in the breed. You might notice your dog having difficulty standing up after a nap, showing a reluctance to climb stairs, or displaying a swaying gait. Your vet will assess your dog's range of motion and discomfort levels during a physical exam. Radiographs, or X-rays, are the standard way to evaluate the fit of the hip joints. Keeping your dog at a lean body weight is one of the most effective ways to reduce the mechanical stress on these joints.

Patellar luxation

Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap, or patella, slips out of its normal groove. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. Owners often notice this when their dog suddenly skips a step or holds a back leg up for a few strides while walking or running. A veterinarian can often feel the kneecap move out of place during a routine physical examination. While some cases are mild and managed with weight control and exercise modification, others may require surgical intervention if the instability causes persistent pain or lameness. Ensuring your dog maintains a healthy weight helps prevent unnecessary strain on the knees.

Heart conditions

Certain heart conditions are associated with the Tibetan Spaniel. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You may notice your dog tiring more quickly than usual, breathing faster while resting, or developing a persistent cough. Your vet will listen to your dog's heart with a stethoscope to check for murmurs or irregular rhythms. If a concern is raised, an echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound of the heart, is the definitive test to assess the structure and function of the heart chambers and valves. Early detection is vital for managing these conditions effectively.