Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Breed Characteristics
Height
30 to 33 cm at the shoulder
Weight
13 to 18 pounds
Life Expectancy
10 to 15 years
Coat Colours
Blenheim, ruby, black and tan, tricolour
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Playful, affectionate and sociable
About the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a sporty companion dog known for their large, gentle eyes and sweet expression. They combine a deep, abiding love for humans with an equally deep love for play.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the ideal family pet for anyone who wants a loyal, playful dog. They’re suited to both low- and high-activity households and get on with kids, dogs, and strangers.
They’re adaptable and easy-going, and will easily mould to fit their owner’s preferred lifestyle. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel wants nothing more than to please their family member, and is equally comfortable lounging around at home as they are adventuring outdoors.
Here are some of the qualities you can expect from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, rated from one to five stars. However, all dogs are individuals, and your dog may not display exactly the same characteristics.
Family Life
5/5
Friendly with Kids
5/5
Friendly with Dogs
5/5
Ease of Grooming
3/5
Exercise Needs
4/5
Prey Drive
3/5
Tendency to Bark or Howl
2/5
Good for Novice Owners
5/5
Apartment Living
5/5
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Breed History
Toy spaniels are depicted in 16th to 18th century paintings created by notable masters of the time, such as Van Dyck and Gainsborough. Today’s Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are descendants of those dogs.
These dogs take their name from the British monarch King Charles I. The 17th-century British monarch himself owned several toy spaniels who accompanied him wherever he went.
English nobles were famously fond of these little dogs, with Mary, Queen of Scots being accompanied to her execution by one of her dogs.
During the 19th century the breed would be crossed with Asian breeds, changing the shape of the dog’s skull and face into what we see today in modern Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
Caring For a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Temperament: The typical Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a relaxed, easygoing temperament. They enjoy social situations and meeting new people, but reserve their most ardent attention for their family members.
- Grooming: While they need frequent brushing and grooming, it’s relatively easy to do at home. These dogs aren't very large and their daily grooming does not take up too much time.
- Exercise: Most Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have moderate energy levels and will only need a minimal amount of exercise throughout the day to stave off boredom and keep them fit. Aim for a couple of 20-minute walks each day.
- Nutrition: Adult Cavalier King Charles Spaniels will need around ¾ to 1 cup of dry dog food each day. A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy will need around half that amount, ramping up to the adult quantity as they get older. It’s best to consult your vet for specific dietary advice.
- Training: Training a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is not very difficult at all, as they are intelligent and sensitive dogs. They do well with positive, reward-based training styles.
How to Choose a Responsible Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Breeder
The breeder you choose to get your dog from is the biggest choice you’ll have to make as a dog owner. This choice will affect your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s health and temperament, so buying your dog from a responsible Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breeder is of the utmost importance. The breeder you’re getting your dog from should know the genetic profile of all their breeding animals and should be testing for common health issues.
When looking for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel for sale, try to visit the breeder and meet the dam and stud. Also check on the living conditions of the animals, as this is where your puppy will spend the first eight weeks of their life.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel FAQ
Can Cavalier King Charles Spaniels be left alone throughout the day?
No, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels tend to have a dependent personality and do not do well without their owners.
Do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels make good guard dogs?
No. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels may bark when someone comes to the door, but they are not good guard dogs. They won’t protect your property, and will likely welcome any intruders with open paws.
Dog Breeds Similar to the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The information is for general use only. For any specific advice or queries, please consult with your veterinarian.
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