Gordon Laverty, whose "horrific" neglect sparked the creation of a rescue charity, was also banned from keeping any pets for the next 20 years.
Sentencing him at Belfast Magistrates' Court, District Judge Ken Nixon said he was only being spared immediate imprisonment because of his clear record and guilty pleas.
Laverty, of Red Brae Road in Carrickfergus, Co Antrim, admitted 10 animal welfare offences.
They included four charges of causing unnecessary suffering to dogs and six counts of failing to ensure the needs of animals he was responsible for were met.
Laverty's neglect was discovered in June 2013 after one severely malnourished dog escaped and was taken to a vet.
A microchip resulted in council staff finding other animals at his home - all in poor condition.
The King Charles Spaniels were said to be starving, unable to stand, and with badly matted coats.
The court heard that six dogs were handed over voluntarily.
A defence lawyer said middle-aged Laverty, whose age was not given, was sorry for what happened.
Michael Boyd told the judge: "He's deeply ashamed about what happened to these animals in his care."
According to the barrister Laverty has a "long record of keeping animals properly and humanely".
He added that the defendant, who used a walking aid to get into court, has been suffering from a range of medical conditions.
Judge Nixon told Laverty: "It's only on the basis that you have come to this court with an entirely clear record and entered pleas at an early opportunity that the 10-month sentence of imprisonment is suspended for two years."
He also ordered: "You are banned from keeping any pets or animals of any kind for a period of 20 years."
Laverty must pay veterinary costs and legal fees of just over £700 as part of the sentence.
Mid and East Antrim Borough Council said it brought the charges under the Welfare of Animals Act.
“Today's sentence demonstrates that councils will take action through the courts and we trust that it sends out the clear message that any form animal cruelty will not be tolerated," it said.
“If anyone has any concerns about any domestic animal's welfare, they should contact their local council's animal welfare service.”
(Irish News - May 20, 2015)
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