Frequently Asked Questions
Are Tibetan Spaniels good with other pets? Tibbies have sometimes been described as cat-like in their mannerisms. From all reports, Tibbies seem to adapt quite well to all types of animals, unless of course the other animal is not very social. As always, it’s best to introduce a new pet to your home in a quiet, controlled area.
Do Tibbies make good watch dogs? Though not aggressive, they make wonderful little watch dogs. Tibbies love, rule and guard their human family with great devotion. Ever alert, they will notify you if anything unusual is going on. Read more about Tibbies as watch dogs under Breed Info - History.
Do Tibbies bark a lot? Tibbies are relatively quiet unless someone comes to your door, or they hear an unusual noise or it’s past their dinner time!
Do Tibetan Spaniels adapt well to apartment life? Yes. Tibbies adapt fine to apartment life.
How often do Tibetan Spaniels need to be groomed or brushed? Tibbies require occasional grooming. Combing their ear fringes once a week and brushing them occasionally, will keep them looking great. Since their coats do not absorb dirt, a bath once every six to eight weeks is fine. Tibbies are a natural breed and no trimming of the coat is necessary. When they are “blowing coat”, you’ll need to brush more frequently. Learn more about how to groom your Tibbie in the Health & Care section - Grooming Your Tibbie.
Are Tibetan Spaniels good with children? Yes, they are good with children. But, as with all animals, adult supervision is always recommended. Tibbies need a home that is free from rough handling and teasing. Some individual Tibbies are better/more patient with children. Typically, the Tibetan Spaniel puppy that has been socialized and exposed to children before you bring him/her home, will enjoy your child’s company.
How easy is it to train a Tibbie in Obedience? Tibbies are highly intelligent and very eager to please their owners. They will do just about anything for attention. Many Tibbies have done quite well in the obedience ring. However, since a Tibetan Spaniel is a little stubborn by nature, he may not be as quick to learn as a Poodle or other easily trained breed.
How hard is it to housebreak a Tibetan Spaniel? Tibetan Spaniels are quite easy to housebreak as are most dogs with love, praise and patience. See Crate Training for some great suggestions on house training.
Do they shed? Like all double coated breeds, Tibetan Spaniels shed a little bit throughout the year. In warmer climates, Tibbies may “blow their coats” the first of summer. Females may shed more after finishing their season, which in Tibetan Spaniels, is generally only once a year.
How much exercises do they need? Tibetan Spaniels need a nice, brisk walk a couple of times a day.
How long do they live? Tibetan Spaniels live a long and healthy life of up to 15 years or more.
What is their mature size and weight? Tibbies can weigh anywhere from 9 to 15 pounds (4.1 to 6.8 kg) and are generally 10 inches (25.4 cms) tall at the shoulder. The females do tend to run a little smaller than the males.
What is their temperament like? Tibbies have sometimes been described as cat-like in their mannerisms. From all reports, Tibbies seem to adapt quite well to all types of animals, unless of course the other animal is not very social. As always, it’s best to introduce a new pet to your home in a quiet, controlled area.