The Damchi is believed to be named after the Himalayan village of Damchi. Another explanation could be that Damchi which means 'tied dog' is explaining its purpose as a guard dog for the monks. This small toy breed is similar to the Tibetan Spaniel only larger. The former King of Bhutan owned a Damchi and the breed has been featured on one of the country’s postage stamps. The Damchi is a much loved dog in Bhutan but elsewhere its survival is still unsure.