Breed History:

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a descendant of the King Charles Spaniel and other small Toy Spaniels depicted in sixteenth, seventeenth, and eighteenth-century paintings. Breeders aimed to recreate a toy dog resembling those seen in portraits from the era of England's Charles II, who was known for his fondness for these small dogs. By the 1940s, these dogs were recognized as a distinct breed and given the prefix "Cavalier" to differentiate them from their ancestors. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was officially classified in the Toy Group of the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1996.

Height – 43 cm

Weight – 5-8 kg

Size - Small

Life Expectancy: 10-14 years

Breed Appearance:

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a graceful, affectionate breed with a well-proportioned body, a gently rounded skull, and long, velvety ears. Its elegant face features soft contours with a subtle stop. The muzzle is moderate and refined, with a balanced jaw and well-aligned teeth forming a gentle scissors bite. The upper lip gracefully overlaps the lower, enhancing its sweet expression. 

Its silky, medium-length coat appears in various colours, including ruby, tricolour, and black-and-tan, often accented by white markings. This charming companion exudes timeless elegance.

Breed Type - Family/guard:

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a gentle and affectionate breed celebrated for its elegant charm and friendly disposition. Equally suited as a companion or family pet, this breed thrives on warmth and human interaction, making it a devoted and endearing companion. Its regal look and playful nature delight owners.

Early socialization is crucial to nurture their confident nature, and although they are usually gentle with children and other animals, gradual introductions foster a peaceful environment. They may sometimes bark, yet they remain remarkably receptive to training overall.

Training:

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are generally easier to please but can be challenging to housebreak due to their sensitive nature. They require early socialization to develop confidence and avoid shy or overly timid behaviour. 

While they are usually respectful of their owner’s authority, they can be vocal and occasionally stubborn. Proper training and patience help prevent undesirable behaviours such as excessive barking. Choosing a well-bred Cocker is essential, as poor breeding can result in temperament issues, making socialization and careful selection important for a well-adjusted companion.

Health & Care:

This breed can be prone to several health issues, including syringomyelia, hereditary eye disease, dislocating kneecaps (patella), back troubles, ear infections, and early-onset hearing loss. They may also develop hip dysplasia. It’s important not to overfeed them, as they tend to gain weight easily. Additionally, some bloodlines are genetically predisposed to a severe heart condition that can lead to early death. When selecting one of these dogs, it is crucial to review the medical history across several previous generations.

Living Condition:

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are well-suited for apartment life if they are adequately exercised. They are fairly active indoors and a small yard is more than sufficient for them.

Exercise:

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniels is an energetic and agile breed that thrives on regular exercise and outdoor adventures. Known for its lively spirit and endurance, it excels in brisk walks, playful runs, and interactive games. 

Grooming:

Regular eye cleaning is essential for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels to prevent infections and irritation. Regular trimming of the coat is necessary to keep the coat healthy and tangle-free. When brushing, take care not to pull out the silky hair, as it is delicate. This breed sheds moderately, so routine grooming helps minimize loose hair and keeps its coat in good condition.

Advantages:

• Excellent with children

• Cheerful and affectionate, making them ideal family pets

• Loving companions

• Moderate grooming is required due to their silky coat

Disadvantages:

• May be stubborn

• Prone to otitis

• Females may show dominance and moodiness