Tibetan Spaniel: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

The Tibetan spaniel is a small dog from Tibet with a medium-length, silky coat that features longer fur, referred to as a “lion’s mane,” around the neck. They have large, expressive eyes and fluffy tails that curl over their backs. Tibetan spaniels are generally very devoted companions who don’t like being left alone.

Learn more about the history, characteristics, and care needs of the Tibetan spaniel.

Breed Overview

Group: Non-Sporting

Height: 10 inches

Weight: 9 to 15 pounds

Coat: Medium-length double coat

Coat Color: Black, black and tan, cream, gold, red, sable, white, or silver sable with/without white markings and/or parti-color

Life Span: 12 to 15 years

Temperament: Friendly, playful, affectionate

Hypoallergenic: No

Origin: Tibet

Characteristics of the Tibetan Spaniel

The Tibetan spaniel generally has a bright and social temperament. They love to be around their families and can be reserved around strangers.

A somewhat independent and stubborn streak is usually a part of the breed’s personality, but they are trainable dogs with positive reinforcement and patience.

History of the Tibetan Spaniel

The Tibetan spaniel is an ancient dog breed. Early versions of the breed are depicted in Eastern artwork dating back to 1100 B.C. Buddhist monks in Tibet kept these dogs in their monasteries as both companions and watchdogs. The vigilant Tibetan spaniel would alert their larger cousin, the Tibetan mastiff, of potential dangers to check out.1

The monks greatly valued these dogs and even called them “little lions” or “lion dogs,” an honor given that lions were considered sacred. They also offered Tibetan spaniels as prized gifts to royalty. 

The Tibetan spaniel made their way to the Western world in the late 1800s. The Tibetan Spaniel Club of America was formed in 1971. The American Kennel Club first recognized the breed in 1983.

Tibetan Spaniel Care

Tibetan spaniels don’t need a great deal of exercise each day. Their coat requires regular grooming to keep it tidy. These protective little dogs should receive consistent training and socialization starting at a young age.

Exercise

Plan on at least an hour per day of exercise for a Tibetan spaniel. That can include morning and evening dog walks plus playtime in between.

Puzzle toys are a great way to provide the mental stimulation Tibetan spaniels need. They might also enjoy dog sports, such as agility or flyball, for mental and physical challenges. 

Grooming

The Tibetan spaniel's coat does not need trimming unless there are areas of fur you want to tidy up, like their paw pads.

Brush the coat a few times per week to remove loose fur and prevent tangles and mats. Pay special attention to the fur behind the ears and the longer feathering, which are prone to matting.

Expect periods of higher shedding, often when the weather changes, during which you’ll have to brush more frequently to keep up with the loose fur.

Bathe them roughly every month, and check their ears at least weekly to see whether they need cleaning. Trim their nails around once a month or when you start to hear them clicking on the floor, and aim to brush their teeth every day with dog-specific toothpaste.

Training

The Tibetan spaniel is smart but can be stubborn about training at times. It’s important to start training from a young age to prevent bad habits from forming. Always use positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, and keep training sessions varied and fun to hold your dog’s attention. 

Tibetan spaniels are prone to separation anxiety and are best in a household where someone is home for most of the day. A professional dog trainer or behaviorist can give you tips on how to combat separation anxiety.

Furthermore, start socializing your Tibetan spaniel from puppyhood. This breed’s history as watchdogs gives them a protective instinct that can cause them to be wary of strangers, which in turn can trigger alert barking. Allowing your dog to have lots of positive interactions with strangers can go a long way to boost comfort and confidence. 

Common Health Problems

Tibetan spaniels generally are healthy dogs, but they are prone to some hereditary health issues2, including: 

• Progressive retinal atrophy: This is also known as PRA, and it is an inherited, progressive condition that leads to blindness.  

• Cherry eye: This occurs when there’s a prolapsed gland in the eye, resulting in a red or pink growth in the corner of the eye. A surgery can cure it.

• Patellar luxation: This is when a dog’s kneecap doesn’t stay in the groove it belongs in. It causes limping and licking at the knee, and a dog may hold their leg at an odd angle.

• Portosystemic shunt (liver shunt): This congenital condition causes blood to bypass the liver without being filtered by the organ. It causes symptoms like seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, and head pressing, among others.

Diet and Nutrition

Tibetan spaniels need high-quality, nutritionally balanced dog food, typically via two measured meals per day. The amount of food to feed will depend on many factors, including weight, activity, age, and more.

Work with your vet to determine the best feeding method for your dog to keep them happy and healthy. Be mindful of treats and other extra food to help prevent weight gain, which can lead to other health issues.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Tibetan Spaniel

The Tibetan spaniel isn’t an extremely popular dog breed, but it is still possible to find them at animal shelters and rescue groups.

If you decide to find a Tibetan spaniel from a breeder, research to find a responsible breeder and avoid puppy mills. Plan to spend around $800 to $4,000 on average for a puppy from a reputable breeder.3

For further information to help you find a Tibetan spaniel, check out:

• Tibetan Spaniel Club of America

• TSCA Rescue & Health Trust

• Tibetan Spaniel Rescue

Tibetan Spaniel Overview

Tibetan spaniels are energetic, spunky dogs that make devoted family pets. They are not the right fit for homes where someone isn't around most of the day.

Pros of Tibetan Spaniels

• Exceptionally devoted to family

• Affectionate and playful

• Doesn’t require a lot of exercise

Cons of Tibetan Spaniels

• Some alert barking

• Prone to separation anxiety

• Might be timid if not well-socialized

More Dog Breeds and Further Research

As with any dog breed, do thorough research before bringing home a Tibetan spaniel to make sure they're right for your lifestyle. Talk to Tibetan spaniel owners, responsible breeders, rescue groups, and veterinary professionals. Spend some time with Tibetan spaniels, too, if possible. 

If you’re interested in similar breeds, check out:

• Japanese Chin

• Pekingese

• Shih Tzu