In Tibet, Tibetan Terriers were kept in lamaseries to be mates not only to the holy men who nurtured them but also to nomadic herders as they traversed the high grasslands with their flocks. Tibetan Terriers are a breed of dog that originated in Tibet.
Due to the belief that the hairy, medium to small-sized dogs would bring good luck, they were never sold and were only given presents or gratitude for favors instead. People who live with this dog breed nowadays are well aware of their rare and wonderful gift.
The Tibetan Terrier’s term is a bit of a misnomer, as it is not a real terrier in the traditional sense. Although he was given the name “terrier” because of his size, he does not exhibit the terrier’s proclivity to dig for vermin or the sharp-edged disposition that is characteristic of the breed.
He is a lively and fun-loving creature, yet those attributes are tempered with a gentle and caring disposition. His eyes glint with a sense of fun behind a stray lock of hair.
Tibetan Terriers, like other dogs, flourish when they have human interaction. It’s no surprise that they make excellent therapy dogs. While they are not devils of activity, they are sufficiently energetic to participate in agility and to perform admirably in obedience and rally competitions.
With their past as lamasery alarm dogs in mind, they are hyperaware of any changes and make excellent watchdogs for the home or office. On the other hand, their kind disposition makes them unsuitable for working as security dogs.
Tibetan Terriers weigh between 20 and 24 lb. and measure 14-16 inches at withers. The colors of Tibetan Terriers change as they grow older, so what they look like as pups may not be the same as what they will look like when they are mature.
Black and white are less likely to change than red and brown. So, don’t fall in love with a specific color; instead, choose many.
Do you desire a dog that is small and manageable as a companion? When that’s the case, a Tibetan Terrier is the right companion for you! This kind of dog is not only entertaining and lively, but they are also incredibly clever and self-sufficient.
Because of their increasing popularity, the costs of these dogs are rising as well. These dogs are generally in good condition, and as a result, they do not necessitate a significant amount of expense on veterinary care.
They do, however, need a great deal of physical activity and stimulation. You will need to purchase toys and sports for your Tibetan Terriers in order to provide them with an outlet for their excess energy.
Do you want to know more about all the average cost estimates for this breed? Then you’ve come to the right place! Below, you will find a complete pricing guide that will help you determine your Tibetan Terrier net price.
How Much Does a Tibetan Terrier Puppy Cost?
As previously stated, the cost of a Tibetan Terrier can range between $1500-$3000, with the majority of the variation depending on the following factors:
1 – Age
Tibetan Terrier puppies are typically sold for significantly higher money than Tibetan Terrier adults. Especially popular and in high demand are puppies between the ages of two and three months. They have a proclivity to form deep emotional attachments to their new owners when they are this young.
2 – Gender
According to several breeders, the price difference between male Tibetan Terriers and female Tibetan Terriers is no longer as significant as it once was.
On the other hand, females may occasionally be sold at a greater price for the purpose of reproducing. Some breeders may charge a greater premium for males since they are less complicated to care for than females.
3 – Family Trees and Bloodlines
Purebred pups command a significantly greater price than mixed breed puppies. Additionally, the lineages of the pup make a difference in their pricing. In certain instances, the parent canines may even be prizewinners in competitions. Puppies born to show-winning dogs are sold for nearly twice the price of puppies born to non-show-winning dogs.
4 – Breeder Reputation
The breeder’s reputation might also have an impact on the price of a possible pet that you are considering. In general, a more reputable breeder increases the likelihood of receiving a healthy dog.
Most pups offered by highly reputable breeders have excellent genetics since their parents are also fit and healthy, which results in very healthy puppies. Most significantly, reputable breeders provide health assurances and may even agree to take back the puppy if a medical ailment develops in it within a year of purchasing it.
Tibetan Terrier Adoption
Always keep in mind that you may also adopt a Tibetan Terrier from a rescue shelter; however, the odds of you finding one are rare. This will be far less expensive than purchasing from a reputable breeder.
One thing to bear in mind is that even though adopting a dog may appear to be the most cost-effective option; there may be a significant amount of additional upkeep fees that you will be responsible for with rescue pets.
Some rescue dogs have experienced emotional stress and maybe hostile toward people. This is especially true for puppies. Some of the dogs at the shelter may have contracted infections from other diseased dogs in the shelter. You must be prepared to pay additional money for any additional treatment these canines may require.
The minimum price of a Tibetan Terrier puppy | $1500 |
Maximum price of Tibetan Terrier puppy | $5000 |
Price range | $1500-$3000 |
The average price of a Tibetan Terrier puppy | $2250 |
Cost of Basic Supplies for a Tibetan Terrier
Before you take your puppy home from the breeder, it is critical that you get some basic basics for him or her. This will significantly simplify the adjustment and make life much simpler for both you and your companion as a result of it.
Harness and leash
Always use a harness instead of a neck collar to keep your dog’s neck safe. Harnesses (or body belts) are far safer and protect your dog’s neck from being injured. A good quality harness for small to medium-sized dogs may be purchased for $14 and $25.
When it comes to picking a leash, go for a rope or nylon-based option rather than a steel chain that will become brittle over time.
A leash with a comfortable cushioned grip and enough length to allow your dog to explore its surroundings with a few limits should be available for purchase in the $10-$20 range, depending on the manufacturer.
Sometimes you can acquire a collar and leash set for $20-$30 if you buy them as a package deal.
Bed and crate
For those who don’t want their dog to track mud and grime all over their bed and sofa, a dog bed is an absolute must-have! Because Tibetan Terriers are little dogs, a small or medium-sized bed will be enough for them to rest comfortably. A dog bed for a small dog will cost between $20 and $50, depending on the brand. Memory foam or premium fur-coated mattresses are significantly more expensive ($90-$120).
Because Tibetan Terriers are small to medium-sized dogs, they may easily be accommodated in most crates and kennels. Crates come in helpful if you need to travel with your dog since they keep them safe and secure while you are on the road.
Additionally, crate training is an essential aspect of your dog’s disciplined development; therefore, investing in a crate is a very wise move in this situation. A crate for a small to medium-sized dog would cost between $80-$150, depending on its size. Make sure the crate is warm and comfortable so that your dog will be able to rest easily inside of it. A Tibetan Terrier’s ideal size is between 25 and 30 inches in height.
Food and water bowls
Tibetan Terriers are small-breed canines of the terrier breed. In order to accommodate this, any regular stainless-steel food or water dishes are suitable. It costs between $14 and $20 to purchase a dog bowl that is robust, tough, skid-proof, and non-slippery, as well as a mat below, to catch spills.
Grooming tools
It takes little effort to keep a Tibetan Terrier’s coat looking good because it is short and rigid. A soft bristle brush should be sufficient to meet the coat grooming requirements of this particular breed. Depending on the quality, an excellent brush may be purchased for $10-$15.
The purchase of an odor elimination spray and an anti-tick powder are two more goods that you should think about. They are available for purchase for between $8 and $20.
You will also need to get a shampoo and conditioner package for your Tibetan Terrier to bathe him. It is critical to ensure that these shampoos are anti-tick and anti-flea before using them.
For $10-$20, you may get an anti-flea, two-in-one shampoo that can provide the cleaning impact of shampoo while also providing the softening effect of a conditioner.
Finally, you must get a nail clipper to guarantee that your Tibetan Terrier does not end up injuring someone when it leaps on them in amusement. One may be purchased for between $10 and $20.
Here is a table outlining these expenses:
Item | Average cost |
Food and Water bowl | $17 to $20 |
Harness and Leash | $35 |
Training tools – poop bags, disinfectants, odor removals, potty pads/dog training pads | $50 |
Grooming Tools – shampoo, brush, toothbrush and paste, nail clippers, wipes | $40 to $100 |
Bed and Crate | $125 to 200 |
Toys – chew toys, teething toys, outdoor toys | $50 |
Dog Training Costs for a Tibetan Terrier
Tibetan Terriers were initially bred to be field dogs, but as time has passed, they have evolved into more of a companion dog kind of breed. Their owners and family members are pretty friendly regarding their owners and family members. However, strangers, small children, and other dogs in their area may not be as familiar.
To prevent your Tibetan Terrier from developing violent tendencies in the future, it is recommended that you socialize and educate your Tibetan Terrier as soon as possible. A stitch in time saves nine, as the saying goes (literally and figuratively in this case).
In-home individual classes with a professional trainer for socialization, toilet training, and crate training will cost between $300 to $500 for solo lessons and $100 for group courses (considering the price for 3-4 sessions).
Additionally, the board and train option is available but is significantly more costly. It works out to around $500 to $1250 every week. In addition to learning numerous fundamental commands such as heel, come, sit, and stay, your pet will also learn about toilet training while boarding with a trainer.
You may easily teach your pet yourself using free web tools and some advice from your family members and friends to save money.
The following is a table outlining the costs associated with various types of dog training:
Group training (cost per class) | $20 per class |
Private obedience school (cost per session) | $45.00 to $120 |
Dog boot camp | weekly about $500 to $1250 |
Minimum online training program price | $99.00 |
YouTube videos | $0.00 |
Minimum puppy basic training cost (total) | $500.00 |
Maximum puppy basic training cost with boarding (total) | $2000.00 |
Food Costs for Tibetan Terrier
In addition to protein, dogs require a wide range of other nutrients in their diet as well. Aside from that, their nutrition varies depending on their age group.
It is recommended that you give your Tibetan Terrier formula-based puppy food while he is a puppy or choose a dog food brand that is good for dogs of all ages when he is an adult.
In addition, you may opt to give the same food that was previously fed to it by the breeder or by the shelter.
Tibetan Terriers weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. Because they are small to medium-sized dogs, they should be fed small-breed dog food because they might choke on larger-sized pellets.
A 15-pound bag of small breed dog food costs between $30 and $50, depending on the kind, the ingredients used, and the brand.
Listed below is a table illustrating the pricing ranges for several types of dog meals:
Type of food | Monthly quantity of food for a 20 lb. Tibetan Terrier | Cost per month |
Premium dry food | 10 lb. | $30 to $50 |
Premium wet food | 15 lb. | $122 |
Freeze-dried food | 10 lb. | $200 |
Frozen food | 15 lb. | $175 |
Raw food | 10 lb. | $100 |
Dog treats | $20 |
Cost Comparison of the Best Dog Food for Tibetan Terriers
Like many small to medium-breed dogs, your Tibetan Terrier needs a high-energy diet to maintain a healthy body weight. The Tibetan Terrier has a high metabolic rate and requires sufficient calories to satisfy its nutritional requirements.
A Tibetan Terrier weighing 20 pounds requires around 450-500 calories per day. Small-breed dog food is created specifically to fulfill these dogs’ energy and nutritional requirements. High-quality small breed dog diets include optimal amounts of protein, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, and antioxidants, among other nutrients.
You may also want to choose food that is easy to digest and chew for their little jaws, as well as food that is nutritious. When feeding your little pet, it is preferable to give him three small meals rather than one large or even two medium-sized meals. As a result, your pet will receive the nutrition it requires as it plays and explores the environment around it.
If you want assistance in picking the finest meal for your companion, the table below may be of assistance. Your veterinarian or breeder may also assist you in making the best diet choice for your cherished pet.
Name | Features | Price |
Nutro Natural Choice Small Bites Adult Dry Dog Food, Lamb & Chicken | Small kibble size, high protein, non-GMO, cooked in USA kitchens, contains fiber and antioxidants | $3.20/lb. |
Royal Canin Canine Care Nutrition Small Digestive Care Dry Dog Food | Ideal for dogs with sensitive tummies as it contains an optimal blend of highly digestible proteins, prebiotics, and dietary fibers | $12.85/lb. |
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Dogs | Small kibble size, contains real meat as the first ingredient, antioxidant-rich dog food, free from by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives | $2.40/lb |
Cesar Gourmet Wet Dog Food | Complete balanced food with vitamins and minerals, plenty of variety for picky eaters, made in the USA, grain-free | $1 per can |
Tibetan Terrier Medical Costs
Vaccinations
Veterinarians’ fees for vaccinations vary depending on how old your dog is and what disease you are vaccinating him against.
Vaccinations for a Puppy
Most states require that children receive vaccinations against distemper, parvovirus, HCV, parainfluenza, and rabies. On average, each shot costs between $80-$100. The DHPP vaccine, which protects against distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza, can be administered as a single dose.
Regular Vaccinations for Adult Dog
Every 1-3 years, DHPP and rabies vaccinations must be administered. In comparison to shots delivered when the dog is a puppy, the DHPP and rabies vaccinations administered once the puppy is four months old are substantially less expensive. Each shot typically costs between $15 and $20.
Optional Vaccinations
Influenza, Leptospirosis, and Lyme disease vaccinations are recommended but are not necessary in the United States. It is estimated that the cost of optional vaccinations is around $20 per injection.
Age of puppy | Core vaccination/ preventive treatment | Non-core vaccination | Cost** |
6-8 weeks | Parvo, distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis) | Distemper vaccine alone costs (first year) $20-$30. The total cost of vaccination is between $75 and $100 | |
10-12 weeks | Parvo, distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis) rabies and leptospirosis | Distemper + measles combo and Giardia | Rabies vaccine in the first year $15 to $25
Distemper – $20 to $30- total between $75 and $100 |
12-16 weeks | Parvo, distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), leptospirosis | total between $75 and $100 | |
26-52 weeks | Boosters for the above, rabies | Lyme, if present in your region, | total between $75 and $100. Lyme disease vaccine costs between $20-$40 |
Every six months | Bordetella, parainfluenza | $20-$50 | |
Every 3 years | Rabies | Influenza | $20-$50 |
Every two weeks until 12 weeks, then monthly until six months | Deworming | Annual cost – $80-$200 | |
Monthly after 12 weeks | Flea and tick prevention | Annual cost $40-$200 |
Injuries
Broken bones and ligament tears are the most common injuries that Tibetan Terriers might incur over their lifetime.
The cost of therapy for broken bones ranges from $200 to $2500. The cost of treatment for ligament tears ranges from $150 to $1500.
Miscellaneous Medical Costs
Name | Cost |
Routine checkup | $50 and $250 |
Spaying or neutering | $160-$200 |
Physical exam | $45 – $55 |
Fecal exam | $25-$75 |
Heartworm test | $45-$50 |
Dental cleaning | $70-$400 |
Allergy testing | $195-$300 |
Bloodwork | $80-$100 |
X-ray | Up to $200 |
USG | Up to $500 |
Hospitalization | $600-$3500 |
Emergency surgery | Up to $5000 |
Common diseases in Tibetan Terriers
Tibetan Terriers are typically healthy dogs; however, they might have hereditary disorders and health difficulties.
Thyroid Issues
Tibetan Terriers are prone to hypothyroidism, a hereditary disorder defined by the body’s failure to produce enough thyroid hormone to satisfy its needs. Symptoms include dry skin, hair loss, and sensitivity to other skin diseases. Weight gain, fear, wrath, and other behavioral changes are also signs. The vet does a blood test for the illness once a year. The therapy is relatively smooth: a hormone replacement tablet is administered, with a median of $2000 – $3000 for the entire operation.
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Tibetan Terriers are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. This inherited disorder causes incorrect joint development, culminating in arthritis in the afflicted joint. As your Tibetan Terrier ages, his elbows and hips may become painfully rigid. Due to his condition, he may get lame in his legs or have trouble rising from a lying-down position. Sometimes, surgery (about $3000) is a possibility even in the most severe and life-threatening circumstances.
Eye diseases
Eyes have a significant influence on your dog’s quality of life. A wide range of eye diseases can result in blindness in Tibetan Terriers if not addressed quickly.
Dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) is a common genetic disorder that causes pain. Untreated, it can lead to blindness.
Cataracts cause blindness in Tibetan Terriers over six years old. Keep an eye out for him. For some people, surgery to remove cataracts and restore vision may be possible. The cost of canine eye treatment varies from $3000 to $4000.
Knee or Patellar Luxation
The patella (kneecap) of your Tibetan Terrier may occasionally misalign (called patellar luxation). His rear legs will be seen jumping or skipping a few meters with one of his hind legs, which you will see as he sprints. Then Tibetan Terrier kicks his leg outside in order to repair the kneecap. Anti-inflammatory medicine may be sufficient if your friend’s minor problem only affects one leg. Severe symptoms may necessitate a $3000 procedure to relocate and stabilize the kneecap.
Here is a table for reference:
Condition | The average cost of treatment |
Eye Diseases | $3000-$4000 |
Patellar Luxation | $3000 |
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia | $3000 |
Thyroid Issues | $2000-$3000 |
Apart from these, if they are not groomed correctly and checked for ticks regularly, they may contract Lyme disease, Tick Paralysis, and Tularemia. The estimated monthly cost of therapy and blood tests for certain disorders might range between $300 and $500 per month.
Should You Buy Pet Insurance for Your Tibetan Terrier?
Yes, purchasing pet insurance is an excellent option since it may assist in covering a variety of medical expenses. Some insurance providers will even reimburse you for the price of vaccinations and other preventative procedures. Many insurance policies include hospitalizations and diagnostic testing, which can cost dog owners thousands of dollars if they are not covered.
Researching pet insurance companies is quite crucial before settling on a particular provider. This is because coverages differ significantly from company to business. Some companies even require you to pay up ahead and repay you afterward. If the expenses are high, this may not always be possible.
The amount of monthly insurance premium you must pay will be determined by various criteria, including the age of your dog and the location where you reside. According to a rough guess, your monthly insurance costs should be between $40 and $80. You should be able to obtain adequate coverage and a long-term strategy for this money.
Here is a list of some of the best-rated pet insurance providers, along with an estimate of their costs:
Name | Cost per month |
Pumpkin Pet Insurance | $50-$80 |
Lemonade | Plans start from $10 a month |
Additional Costs of Owning a Tibetan Terrier
An owner of a Tibetan Terrier should anticipate the following expenditures in addition to feeding and medical care for their dog:
Microchipping
Microchipping your Tibetan Terrier is a painless and straightforward operation that can increase the safety of your Tibetan Terrier. It requires the implantation of a unique chip beneath the skin of your dog. Most veterinary facilities charge approximately $45.
Travel Charges
Will you be bringing your Tibetan Terrier along with you on your travels? Because you will need to rent or purchase a specific airline-approved dog carrier for this little dog, the cost of a flight for this small dog may be about $250 one way.
Is it possible to hire someone to look after your pet if you decide not to bring it with you? Pet sitters might charge up to $45 per day, depending on the services they give to their clients. Alternatively, you may board your pet, which will cost you between $40 and $75 per night at most dog hostels.
Grooming
You should be able to groom your dog at home because it does not require a lot of specialized grooming. In contrast, if you get it professionally trimmed, expect to pay anywhere from $30 and $75, depending on the groomer you choose. Most grooming procedures involve a wash, ear cleaning, nail cutting, and other similar services.
Dog Walking Service
Exercising daily will be beneficial to your Tibetan Terrier. An energetic dog can b. It is recommended that you walk your dog twice a day for 25-30 minutes each time. Many behavioral difficulties will be reduced due to this since a tired dog is a happier dog. If you are too busy to accomplish this, you may pay a dog walker to do it for you. Most charge between $10 and $50 for a 30-minute walk.
Key Takeaways – How Much Does a Tibetan Terrier Cost?
Owning a dog, especially a little dog like a Tibetan Terrier, is not cheap.
According to our calculations, the first year’s costs for your Tibetan Terrier should be around $4000. At the same time, a high-quality Tibetan Terrier puppy costs roughly $2250 on average.
After the first year, the cost should be under $1000 (assuming your dog is healthy and doesn’t become sick). It costs roughly $400 to get a dog groomed, fed, and watered.
- The first year’s dog food costs roughly $150 and then reduces to $120.
- Medical expenditures for fractured bones, ligament rips, illnesses, and health issues are difficult to estimate because they vary greatly. Tibetan Terriers are typically healthy canines that rarely become sick.
- However, you may wish to acquire pet insurance to cover unforeseen medical bills, which can reach $1000 per year if your dog needs treatment or surgery. A year’s pet insurance might cost $400.
Lifetime cost
Tibetan Terriers live 12-15 years on average. The average lifetime cost of raising this unique canine is around $17,000 if you spend $1000 to $1500 each year. This is a guess. These expenses might be smaller or greater. It all depends on your town, parenting style, and pet’s health.
We hope this cost guide helps you plan for your Tibetan Terrier!