Tibetanpei Spaniel

The Tibetanpei Spaniel is a fantastic combination of both its parents’ personalities and nature. The Shar-Pei is considered an ancient breed from China. The dogs were bred by local farmers to hunt, protect, and herd. The bred’s bravery and intelligence were well respected and made them a popular dog throughout the country. The Chinese also bred the dogs to have loose skin so they could easily compete in dogfights. Unfortunately, when communism erupted in China and the nation became the People’s Republic of China, the government viewed dogs as a luxury item and set out to slaughter every dog in the country. Thousands of dogs were destroyed but a few Shar-Peis remained in Taiwan and Hong Kong. A few Shar-Peis were also imported to the United States to become foundation dogs in 1973 in an attempt to save the breed from being completely destroyed by the Chinese government. In 1988, the Chinese Shar-Pei was recognized by the American Kennel Club and entered into the Miscellaneous Group. The Shar-Pei has rebounded from its early days. In 1978, the Guinness Book of World Records declared the dog the rarest breed in the world with only 60 dogs remaining.  The Tibetan Spaniel comes from Tibet where the breed was used as watchdogs. It is believed that the breed is over 2,000 years old. The Tibetan people have always cherished the dogs. The breed was never sold but they  were often given as gifts. The dogs were popularly owned by Buddhist monks and lamas. They thrived in monasteries across Tibet. In 1889, the breed made its way to England and finally to the United States in 1966. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1994 and they were entered into the Non-Sporting Group.