Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Vital Statistics:

Place of Origin: England

Group: Toy, Companion

Height: 12-13 in.

Weight: 10-18 lbs.

Life span: 9-14 yrs.

Trainability: high

Good with children: yes

Good with other pets: yes

What is the origin of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a great resemblance to spaniels in 15th and 16th century paintings. In the 1920s, breeder feeling the Cavalier did not look enough like the original types, selected dogs to produce today’s Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

What does the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel look like?

The Cavalier is 12-13 inches tall and weighs from 10-18 lbs. The flat skull tapers to a black nose. Eyes are large and round, dark brown in color. Ears are long and abundantly feathered and hang at the side of the face. The tail is medium in length, sometimes docked where this practice continues, and falls in a soft curve. The lustrous coat is long and silky and well-feathered. Colors are black and tan, red, white with chestnut markings or tricolor (black, white, chestnut). Daily brusing will bring out the best in the coat.

What is the temperament of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?

This is a lively, outgoing little dog. It is fearless and responds well to gentle training. They get along well with dogs and other pets. Cavaliers bond closely with people and are very affectionate. Descended from hunting dogs, they sometimes get the urge to chase, so best to keep them leashed outdoors. They are good with children who treat them well, but can be reserved with strangers. Daily walks will release energy.

What are the uses of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?

The Cavalier’s sharp senses of smell and sight can be put to use in short hunts. It is mainly a wonderful companion dog.

Possible Health Issues

Mitral valve disease, Syringomyelia (brain and spinal cord disorder), hip dysplasia, brachycephalic syndromes, deafness, cerebellar strokes, patellar luxation, eye problems such as dry eye syndrome.