Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a companion dog breed that has sporting and flushing roots. This lovely little breed likes nothing more than to spend their days being petted and sitting in its owner’s lap. They are one of the largest toy companion breeds and you will be surprised how active these dogs can be. After all, they come from the spaniel family and that means they have great flushing and retrieving abilities. They can be quite agile, fast, and energetic. Some of the dogs from this breed are great competitors in dog competitions such as flyball, agility, obedience, or rally.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are very devoted to their family. They will follow you wherever you will go. A dog’s temperament can be defined by many things such as breeding, training, and socialization but this breed is generally extremely friendly. They are lively and friendly towards everyone so they make terrible watchdogs. They will try to manipulate you for a treat or food scraps and they usually get their own way. Not many people can reject the beautiful bog Cavalier eyes and their constantly wagging tail. You should be careful when giving them treats as they are prone to obesity, so keep in mind that you ensure them with plenty of activity as well as treats.
Height:
12–13 in (30–33 cm)
Weight:
13–18 lb (5,2–8 kg)
Origin:
Great Britain
Life Expectancy:
9-15 years
Dog Breed Characteristics
FCI standard
The Fédération Cynologique Internationale or the FCI is a union of 98 national cynology associations that have adapted and put in place a standard for this breed. The FCI standard describes these dogs as being very active and well-balanced. These dogs should be friendly and have a graceful and peaceful expression. The FCI standard placed these dogs in Group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs), Section 7 (English Toy Spaniels). These dogs are not required to undergo a working trial. This standard doesn’t have a required height for this breed, it only has a defined weight and it is 12 - 18 lbs (5,4 - 8 kg).
This breed was registered by the FCI on the 20th of January 1955.
Grooming
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a medium-length silky coat that is easy to maintain. Few brushes during the week will do the trick and keep these dogs looking good. These dogs shed averagely.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel coat colors:
- Blenheim – rich chestnut markings on a clear white
- Tricolor – black markings on a clear white with tan markings over the eyes, cheeks, and inside of the ear
- Ruby
- White-colored rich red
- Black and tan
They will also need other basic care; brush their teeth at least three times a week. Check their ears for signs of infection and redness, bathe them regurarly, and trim their nails if they don’t wear them down naturally.
Exercise
These dogs are not so active and a few daily walks will be enough to keep them in good shape. They prefer to be a lap dog rather than active companions. These dogs will enjoy participating in canine sports but also will enjoy spending days on a couch.
Socialization
Like any other dog breed, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel should start the socialization process as soon as possible. Dogs that are not well socialized are prone to behavioral problems and might react badly to situations they are not familiar with.
Socialization can even be done at home. Dress differently; wear glasses, hats, and baggy clothes so your puppy can’t recognize you right away. Teach your puppy to stay alone for a while and not make a fuss about it. It is the best way to make sure your puppy will grow up to be a stable, confident, and well-behaved dog.
Kids
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are excellent family dogs that will get along with every family member including children. Take note that kids need to be taught how to properly play and interact with a dog so Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can enjoy their company. If they are raised together from an early age they will be their playing parting and they will enjoy spending time together.
They are better suited for older kids who know how to properly approach and play with such a small dog.
Other animals
These dogs can get along well with other dogs and can enjoy their company. If they are properly introduced and socialized from an early age these dogs will get along with other pets as well.
Health problems
Like any other dog breed, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can potentially develop health problems. If you are buying a dog, make sure the breeder can provide you with the necessary health tests and guarantees. Always ask to see the results of tests from the puppy’s parents. The health problems these dogs are associated with are:
- Hip dysplasia - Genetic problem affecting hips resulting from an improperly formed hip joint.
- Patellar luxation
- Ear infections
- Heart diseases
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is generally considered a very healthy breed that can live 9-15 years.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breeders
This is a very affectionate and devoted companion breed so before you start searching for a reputable and registered Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breeder, make sure that this is the breed that will be a great fit for you and/or your family. Ask the breeder as many questions as possible and ask for advice on how to best raise these dogs. The breeder is a great ally and advisor throughout your dog’s life.
Buying a dog from a responsible breeder will cost you more money, but you can be sure that you will get a healthy puppy. If you are unable to buy a dog, we advise you to search for local animal shelters because there is a chance you can find a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dog in it.
If you are unsure whether this is the breed for you, check out this FREE GUIDE that will help you decide which dog breed is right for you.
SEARCH CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL BREEDERS
World Dog Finder team
Updated at15.06.2020.
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