About Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dogs

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are lively, energetic, toy dogs that are always happy to be with their owners. It is easy to add a Cavalier of any age to your household. In fact, according to the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club, this breed adapts quickly to new households, due to a "love the one you're with" attitude. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are charming dogs but do come with some health issues. It is important to be aware of these concerns before deciding to adopt this breed.

  1. History

    • The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has been a favored dog of aristocracy for centuries, enjoying the luxurious life of favored house pets. Cavaliers were featured in many early paintings, some dating back as early as the 16th century.

      The breed was originally simply known as "toy spaniels" until King Charles II of England took a fancy to them, always keeping several in his household. King Charles treasured this breed so much that he issued a decree stating that the dog would be allowed in any public place---including the Houses of Parliament, where animals were usually prohibited. That decree stands to this day.

      The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is designated as part of the toy group by the American Kennel Club and was first recognized by that organization in 1995. The breed is affectionately known as the "Charlie."

    Appearance

    • Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are usually 12 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 13 to 18 pounds. The breed comes in colors including tricolor (tan, black and white), ruby (red), Blenheim (chestnut and white) and tan-and-black. The coat is medium length, silky and straight or slightly wavy. The Cavalier has a slightly tapered muzzle, a sweet expression and large, round eyes. The ears are set high on the head and drape long. The tail can be docked or left natural. If docked, never more than one-third is removed.

    Characteristics

    • Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are happy, lively, active little dogs. They are devoted to their owners and do not do well when left alone for long periods without human or animal companionship. The breed is intelligent and eager to please. Charlies are happy to adapt to their owners' lifestyles, whether that involves long walks or relaxing on the couch. They enjoy the company of other pets in the household and consider children delightful companions.

    Requirements

    • Although Charlies are content to be couch potatoes if it means time spent with their owners, they do require regular exercise. According to the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club, a fenced yard for running is preferred for the breed, but the minimum of at least one good walk a day is necessary. Cavaliers should always be leashed when walked, as they love to give chase. Cavaliers should not be bathed more than once a week to prevent drying out of the skin and coat. Brushing the coat, particularly the ear area, is encouraged twice weekly to prevent tangling. Hair between the paw pads needs to be trimmed monthly.

    Health Concerns

    • According to CavalierHealth.org, mitral valve disease of the heart afflicts nearly all Cavalier King Charles Spaniels by the age of 10 and is the leading cause of death in this breed. Cavaliers are also susceptible to syringomyelia, a disorder of the brain and spinal cord. Hip dysplasia affects one out of three Cavaliers. Breathing difficulties, due to the shape of the Cavalier's face, are also common.