Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Description
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small, elegant toy breed known for its friendly disposition and affectionate nature. They were originally bred in England as companions for royalty, and their charming appearance and gentle demeanor make them a popular choice for families and individuals alike. With a history that dates back to the 16th century, this breed has maintained its regal bearing while also being known for its playful and loving personality.
Personality
Cavaliers are known for their friendly and sociable personalities. They are affectionate, gentle, and eager to please, making them excellent companions. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and even other pets. Their playful nature means they enjoy interactive play and social activities. They can be sensitive and may not respond well to harsh training methods; instead, they thrive on positive reinforcement and gentle guidance.
Care Requirements
Cavaliers have moderate exercise needs; daily walks and playtime are essential to keep them healthy and happy. They are prone to certain health issues, including heart problems and hip dysplasia, so regular veterinary check-ups are important. Grooming is also a significant part of their care routine, as their long coat requires regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Additionally, proper dental care is vital, as Cavaliers are prone to dental issues. Socialization and training should start early to ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted adults.
Suitable For:
- Families with children, due to their excellent rating with kids.
- Households with other dogs, as they are very sociable and get along well with other canines.
- People looking for a sociable and friendly dog that is welcoming to strangers.
- Individuals or families looking for a moderately active pet that enjoys play, but doesn't require excessive physical activity.
- Those able to provide consistent, positive reinforcement training, taking advantage of their high trainability.
- NOT
Not Suitable For:
- Those looking for a highly active or playful dog that requires lots of physical stimulation.
- Individuals or families needing a highly protective or guard dog.
- People who need a very quiet or silent dog, as they do have a moderate barking tendency.
- Those unable to provide sufficient social interaction, as this breed thrives on companionship.
- People with limited time for training, despite their high trainability, they still require consistent training efforts.
Physical Characteristics
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel typically stands between 12 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs around 13 to 18 pounds. They have a silky, medium-length coat that can come in several color combinations including Blenheim (chestnut and white), tricolor (black, white, and tan), ruby (solid red), and black and tan. Their large, expressive eyes and sweet expression give them a youthful appearance. They have long, feathered ears and a slightly domed skull, contributing to their refined look.
Height
Male: 12" - 13"
Female: 12" - 13"
Weight
Male: 13 - 18 lbs
Female: 13 - 18 lbs
Life Expectancy
12 - 15 years
Breed Characteristics
Maintenance Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel gets its noble name from King Charles II of England, who was very fond of the breed and almost always had one by his side during his reign in the 17th century. In fact, he made a law that this breed could not be denied entrance to any public place, including the Houses of Parliament.
Physically, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a distinct "merry" temperament that is reflected in their physical characteristics. Their silky, wavy coat and long feathered ears exude an air of elegance. Their expressive, round eyes are a notable feature and are often described as having a sweet, gentle expression.
One unique behavior of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is that they are sometimes referred to as "comforter dogs". This is because they have a natural instinct to provide comfort and companionship. They are known to be very affectionate, often preferring to be as close to their owners as possible, even insisting on sharing the bed.
A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Dash was a notable pet of Queen Victoria. Before she became queen, Victoria received Dash as a gift and he was reportedly her closest companion. Dash is even mentioned on her statue at Kensington Gardens, where his inscription reads "His attachment was without selfishness, His playfulness without malice, His fidelity without deceit, READER, if you would live beloved and die regretted, profit by the example of DASH."
In popular culture, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Elizabeth Taylor appeared in the TV show "Sex and the City" as Charlotte's dog. This has made the breed even more popular and recognizable. Their friendly and sociable nature makes them excellent companions, even in the hustle and bustle of city life.