Feeding your Tibetan Spaniel properly is straightforward, but their small size means every meal counts toward their overall health and wellbeing. Adult Tibbies typically do well on high-quality commercial dog food that meets nutritional standards, fed twice daily in measured portions.

Given their preference for small-bite kibble, look for formulas specifically designed for small breeds. A premium small-breed kibble might cost around $30-$50 AUD for a 3kg bag, which will last several weeks. The amount varies based on your dog's age, weight, and activity level, but most adult Tibetan Spaniels need between 1/4 to 1/2 cup of dry food daily, divided into two meals. Always follow the feeding guidelines on your chosen food packaging, but remember these are starting points – your vet can provide personalised advice.

Tibetan Spaniel puppies require more frequent feeding to prevent low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), which can be dangerous in small breeds. Feed puppies three to four meals daily on a consistent schedule until they're about six months old, then transition to twice daily feeding.

Weight management is crucial. In Australia, it's easy for Tibbies to gain excess weight during hot summer days when outdoor activity is limited. Monitor their body condition regularly; you should be able to feel their ribs without pressing hard, but not see them prominently.

Treats are excellent training tools, but limit them to 10% of daily calories to prevent obesity. Many Australian pet stores stock small-breed appropriate treats perfect for training sessions.

Fresh, clean water should always be available, which is particularly important during Australia's warmer months. Some Tibbies can be picky eaters, so if your dog suddenly loses interest in food, consult your veterinarian to rule out any health issues.

The Tibetan Spaniel's beautiful double coat is surprisingly low-maintenance, making them ideal for busy Australian families who want a gorgeous dog without intensive grooming requirements. Their coat naturally repels dirt and rarely mats when properly cared for, though regular brushing keeps them looking their best.

A good brush once or twice weekly is usually sufficient to maintain their coat and reduce shedding around your home. Pay special attention to areas prone to matting: behind the ears, under the armpits, and around the tail's feathering. During shedding seasons – particularly the spring shed from September to November – daily brushing helps manage loose fur and keeps your furniture cleaner.

Unlike many breeds, Tibetan Spaniels don't require professional trimming of their body coat. The only hair that should be trimmed is on the bottom of their paw pads to prevent slipping on tiles or hardwood floors – particularly important in Australian homes with polished concrete or timber flooring.

Bathing is only necessary when they're genuinely dirty, as over-bathing can strip natural oils from their coat. When you do bathe them, use a dog-specific shampoo and ensure thorough rinsing, especially important in areas with hard water.

Their ears require weekly attention – comb the ear fringes to prevent matting and clean with a veterinary-approved ear cleaner to prevent infections. This is particularly important in Australia's more humid regions like Queensland and northern New South Wales.

Regular nail trimming is essential and should start in puppyhood. If you hear clicking on your tiles, it's time for a trim. Most Australian veterinary clinics and grooming salons can handle this for around $15-$25 AUD if you're uncomfortable doing it yourself.

Eye care is generally minimal, but watch for any discharge or changes that might indicate progressive retinal atrophy, and consult your vet if concerns arise.

Training a Tibetan Spaniel requires patience, consistency, and a good sense of humour – these intelligent dogs have definite opinions about what they will and won't do! Their independent nature, developed over centuries of monastery life, means they'll often decide whether your request is worth their time. However, their eagerness to please their beloved family makes training ultimately rewarding.

Start training early, ideally from puppyhood, using positive reinforcement techniques with plenty of treats and praise. Short, fun training sessions work best – these dogs get bored with repetitive exercises. Australian dog training clubs often offer puppy socialisation classes perfect for Tibbies, helping them become confident around other dogs and people.

Exercise requirements are refreshingly minimal compared to many breeds, making them perfect for Australia's varied lifestyles. A daily walk around the neighbourhood, some indoor play, and perhaps a weekend trip to your local dog park usually satisfies their physical needs. They're equally happy with a energetic walk through Sydney's Centennial Park or a gentle stroll around a suburban Adelaide block.

Mental stimulation is more important than physical exercise for this breed. Puzzle toys, scent work, and interactive games keep their clever minds engaged. Many Australian dog sports clubs offer rally, agility, and scent work competitions that Tibbies excel at when motivated.

Remember their guardian heritage – they will bark at unusual sounds, delivery trucks, or strangers approaching. While this makes them excellent watchdogs, it requires management in suburban Australian neighbourhoods. Training a "quiet" command early helps maintain good neighbour relationships.

These dogs adapt well to apartment living but need a securely fenced yard if available, as their curiosity can lead them on adventures. Their small size makes them vulnerable to larger dogs, so supervision at dog parks is essential.