Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan Spaniel is described by the AKC as playful, bright, self-confident, a member of the Non-Sporting Group, originally from Tibet.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 10 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 9-15 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Playful / Bright / Self-Confident [1] |
| AKC group | Non-Sporting Group [1] |
| Origin | Tibet [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 122 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
A daily walk is always enjoyable to a Tibetan Spaniel. They are as happy lying around the house as they are taking a long run in the yard. A fenced yard is a must. [1]
Grooming
Whether show or pet, the Tibetan Spaniel is a natural breed that does not require trimming except for the hair on the bottom of their feet, for cleanliness. The area behind the ears tends to mat and should be combed frequently, but otherwise the breed's coat does not tend to mat. A regular brushing and bath will keep the coat in good condition, with attention also given to the rear fringes, which can use a regular combing. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Tibetan Spaniels are a relatively health breed, and responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy (a genetic eye disease); 'cherry eye,' an inflammation of tissue adjacent to the eye that often is corrected surgically; and patellar luxation. Before going to their new homes, puppies should be checked for portosystemic shunt (liver shunt), in which the blood flow around and/or through the liver is affected. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Tibetan Spaniel in 1983. [1]
- It ranked No. 122 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 115 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Tibbie.” [1]
- The AKC lists Tibet as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 2 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Patella Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
Common questions
How long do Tibetan Spaniels live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Tibetan Spaniel get?
AKC breed information lists height 10 inches and weight 9-15 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Tibetan Spaniel?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Tibetan Spaniel, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.