Description:
Randy is as cute as a button, in that smooshed face kinda way. When I first heard about him, I was told he was a Pekingnese. The next time someone said he was a Pug. When I saw the photo I laughed ~ he's a Tibetan Spaniel! I'll forgive everyone for not knowing ~ you don't run across this breed that often.
We rescued Randy from a local kill shelter. He couldn't believe he was there. Neither could we! He is sooo much happier to be with us, but we know his life will only get better because this is just one stop on his way to his forever home.

According to www.dogbreedinfo.com, this breed originated in Tibet. It is believed that in its veins runs the blood of the Pekingese, the Pug, and the Japanese Spaniel (Chin). These dogs were prized in ancient Tibet, and were often given as gifts to royal houses. This practice spread the dogs throughout Asia. Depictions of dogs similar to the Tibetan Spaniel have been found in Chinese bronzes from as early as 1100 BC. The Tibetan Spaniel was a companion and watchdog at Tibetan monasteries, sitting on the high walls and barking at any sign of intruders. The dog also reportedly turned the prayer wheels for his masters. Today's Tibetan Spaniel still likes to sit in high places to watch over his surroundings. The Tibetan Spaniel first was brought to England in the late 1800's. The breed received official AKC recognition in 1984. Now the Tibetan Spaniel is a popular companion and show dog.
The Tibetan Spaniel is perky, happy, very smart, and trusting. They are sweet and protective with their family, especially children, but aloof with strangers. It is not a yappy dog, yet it will bark at intruders and strange happenings. It can be rather insistent and willful at times. This breed is a fine family companion, very independent and a good watchdog. It can move fairly quickly on its small, neat hare- feet, usually getting along with other animals. These dogs can be slightly difficult to train. The Tibetan Spaniel is slow to mature and lives a long time - about 12-15 years.