#I will forever say that backyard breeders and puppy mills suck

[storm-does-some-stuff]

I've had two in my life and I love them dearly. I'm no vet expert, I'm not going to sit here and claim I know a lot about genetics, but I can give my experience as a Tibbie owner. Going to be typing this as a general thing and not just as a response to OP. Also, please take with a grain of salt, this is anecdotal. :)

My first girl sadly had a stroke in her spine when she was about 4 years old. Got to be really careful about their spines. She grew pretty big for a Tibbie as well, so the theory is that there was too much pressure on her back. She lived a good life, but unfortunately passed away at the age of 7.

The boy I have now on the other hand? Healthy as can be, tbh. He's only ever been to the vets for big health things to have an abscess removed, and because he was attacked while on leash by two off-leash GSDs. He's fussy about what he eats, and pretty lazy but genuinely no big health issues. And we get all our pets checked for common breed health issues. He does have a tiny underbite as well, but it's nothing major.

I have met a Tibbie before from a poor breeder. This poor dog's eyes were bulging a lot, but that's the only time I've ever seen anything alarming.

I have heard that my first girl's littermates all lived long lives, so my girl drew the short straw.

Like with all dogs, it comes down to how well bred the puppies are. Finding a reputable breeder who health tests is so incredibly important. But, hey, that's for same with all dogs. Reputable breeders aren't bad. It's backyard breeders and puppy mills that are. Breed specific rescues are also an amazing option if you want to give an older Tibbie a good home!

I do recommend finding some Tibbie forums and the like if you're interested in owning one. They're great dogs if you want a sentient cushion and can be really lazy (my dad loves his fluffy boy so much he carries him in a backpack when he gets tired). Wouldn't recommend them if you want an active breed.

tl;dr: Tibbies have health problems, just like all breeds. Make sure to do research and find a reputable breeder or go through a breed specific rescue if you want a pure bred dog. :)

Here's some pet tax as well. Say hi to Gizzy!

is there anything wrong with Tibetan Spaniels? they're so cute