Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Group 1: Toys
Height: 33-36cm
Energy Level: Moderate
Original Function: Companion
Lifespan: 12 to 13 years; 15 is not uncommon.
Recommended for: Most people/families.
About This Breed
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was developed from a cross between a King Charles and a Cocker Spaniel, the English breeders were trying to reproduce a toy dog similar to those seen in portraits from the time of England’s Charles II. The Cavalier today differs greatly from its forbearers.
This is an affectionate, undemanding and easy to train family dog. They are excellent with children and the elderly. They are not excessive barkers but will announce strangers. They are no guard dogs however, as they greet most people warmly. Cavaliers get along with everyone, including cats and other small pets. Being relatively small and easy going, they make good travel companions.
General Characteristics
Appearance: Small sized, well balanced body. Big round dark eyes. Long flowing ears that hang to the side of the head. Long tail.
Temperament: Lively, Friendly, Playful, non-aggressive; no tendency to nervousness.
Characteristics: Sporting, affectionate, absolutely fearless.
Grooming: A Cavalier should be groomed thoroughly once a week. (It sounds
like Cavaliers are a lot of work and they are not). This is a shedding dog but no more than any other dog with a medium length coat. good grooming should keep the hair load on your furniture fairly low.
Special attention must be given to the ears are they are drop ears and there is very little air circulation. (The only special attention is to make sure that the fur under the flap of their ears is dried well after a bath. Most people forget to do this and the resulting moisture causes problems.) No trimming is necessary and is, indeed, disallowed for the show ring.
Colour: Black & Tan, Ruby, Blenheim & Tricolours.
Coat: Long & Silky, sometimes wavy but not curly.
Exercise: Whatever exercise you can provide will suit this breed they are very adaptable. They do need some regular exercise or they will put on the kilos.
Health: This breed can sometimes suffer from hereditary eye disease and dislocating kneecaps. (Mitral Valve disease is more prevalent than either Eye disease or dislocating kneecaps -correct term is luxating patella- but these health issues are known to affect all small breeds – not just cavaliers. Reputable breeders are working hard to eliminate the problems from the breed)