Instructions
Train your Cavalier. Cavaliers are so sweet and friendly that it is difficult to be firm with them. Unless you want to share your bed every night, train your Cavalier to sleep on a pet bed. It is not necessary to reprimand your dog; just show him strong leadership so that he does not develop undesirable habits. Once properly trained, the Cavalier is an ideal companion for adults and a terrific playmate for children.
Choose a premium dog food appropriate for your Cavalier's size, age and activity level. Cavaliers often have robust appetites. They are not shy about sharing your food, nibbling treats, or begging from strangers with their pitiful, puppy-dog look. Do not overfeed a Cavalier, as being overweight puts an unhealthy strain on its cardiovascular system, joints and connective tissues.
Select a veterinarian for regular checkups. Become familiar with the health difficulties to which Cavaliers are prone. Every breed of dog has some kind of health issue. Some are merely annoying, while others can be life threatening. Cavaliers are predisposed to mitral valve disease, hip dysplasia, cataracts and other eye diseases. Choose a veterinarian who has experience with this breed. Ask about preventative and diagnostic care for your Cavalier.
Brush your Cavalier as needed but at least once a week. While the Cavalier coat requires brushing, it does not need trimming. Cavaliers shed differently, depending on seasonal and environmental conditions. Microfiber and leather upholstery are more resistant to shedding than other fabrics. Carpets, rugs and hardwood floors should be vacuumed or swept regularly.
Join an American Kennel Club (AKC) Cavalier specialty group in your area. If you're not sure if there is a club near you, do an online search for "Cavalier King Charles Spaniels," along with your city, state or region. Getting involved socially with other Cavalier owners will give you the opportunity to learn more about the breed, hear amusing stories, talk about their behavioral and health problems, and explore other issues that affect the breed.
How to live with Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are stylish and playful toy dogs that are sweet-natured, gentle and extremely loving. Their glossy coats come in four colors: Blenheim (red and white), Ruby (red), Tricolor (black, tan and white) and Black and Tan. No matter what color they are, many people think Cavaliers are adorable little dogs. As with any pet, however, it is a good idea to discover what it is like to live with a Cavalier before adopting one.