Pet Circle

    Last Updated: 07/05/2025

    Tibetan Spaniel | Breed Guide

    Want to know more about Tibetan Spaniels? Check out our Vet-written guide for all the breed facts health diet and care tips.

    Author: Dr Maree Monaghan BVSc (Hons)

    Reading Time: 5 minutes - short read

    Breed size: Place of origin: Intelligence:
    Small Tibet High
    Breed group: Energy level: Weight range:
    Toy group Moderate 4.1 to 6.8kg
    Life expectancy: Tendency to bark: Height range:
    12 to 15 years Moderate 25cm
    Drool factor: Ease of training: Coat type:
    Low Moderate Medium, silky double coat
    Shedding factor: Overall grooming needs: Colours:
    Moderate Moderate Any colour or mixture of colours, except merle

    How big do Tibetan Spaniels get?

    Tibbies are small dogs weighing between 4 and 7kg and standing 25cm at the shoulder.

    How much does a Tibetan Spaniels cost?

    Tibbie pups in Australia may cost anywhere from $1500 to $4000. The pandemic significantly increased demand for Tibbie puppies and the price of a purebred pup can occasionally even exceed this.

    Do Tibetan Spaniels shed?

    Tibbies are considered to be moderate shedders and will shed small amounts all year round with one or two big moults at any time of year. Shedding fur can be controlled with regular brushing (once a day might be needed during moulting) with a general plastic bristle brush or comb. Special attention needs to be paid to the long silky hair on their ears and legs as this tends to matt. Tibbies often need to have the hair on the bottoms of their paws trimmed if it gets too long.

    Are Tibetan Spaniels good pets?

    Tibbies are wonderful companions and are content to live in any type of home as long as they are not left alone for long. They are good with children and other pets and are just as happy lying around the house as they are going for a long walk or jog with their owner.

    How much exercise do Tibetan Spaniels need?

    Tibbies are an active dog, however, they will be just as satisfied with playing with toys in an apartment, running around your backyard or a long walk as long as they have the company of a human.

    How long do Tibetan Spaniels live?

    Tibbies are a generally healthy breed and can live for up to 15 years. As with any breed, Tibbies are much more likely to reach a grand old age if you don't let them become overweight and keep their teeth in top condition!

    How do I choose a Tibetan Spaniel breeder?

    When looking for a Tibetan Spaniel, your options are to: a) adopt from a rescue (this is our top recommendation!) b) buy from an or online marketplace or pet store (NOT recommended!), or c) Research a reputable breeder. Never purchase a puppy without inspecting the breeder's premises and asking the 10 Breeder Checklist Questions first. Good breeders socialise their animals, house them humanely, allow you to inspect their premises, and select for healthy traits and good temperaments. Read our Guide to Finding a Good Breeder for more tips.

    Do Tibetan Spaniels bark much?

    Despite their heritage as watchdogs,Tibbies are not prone to excessive barking. They do have a tendency to develop separation anxiety which can lead to a plethora of behavioural problems including excessive barking. As with any dog, they can be trained not to bark incessantly with positive reinforcement training.