This little-known breed is named after the Himalayan village of Damchi and is a popular pet in Bhutan.
The Damchi is a close relative of the Tibetan Spaniel, but is larger and more strongly built, and has a longer muzzle. Colours are variable, although a black body with tan-and-white extremities appears to be the favoured pattern. The plumed, spitz-like tail curls up over the back.
In its homeland this is a celebrated dog one was owned by the King of Bhutan and the breed was commemorated in a 1972 set of postage stamps featuring Bhutanese dogs. It has hardly ever been seen elsewhere in the world, although a few were taken to Europe by a German breeder who came across them on a visit to Asia.
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