Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dogs
Breed Rating (4 Reviews)
Appearance | |
Friendliness | |
Hardiness | |
Garden |
History
Cavalier Spaniels originated in tudor times where they were used as lap dogs and feet warmers. They were often used as mobile hot water bottles too. In the 1700's, King Charles II took so much interest in the breed, that they became known as King Charles Spaniels. Lots of breeding took place over the next 200 years, creating a shorter nose which was preferred at the time. In the early 1900's, breeding began again to get back to the more pointed nose that we recognise today. They are one of the most popular breeds in England.
Behaviour
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an affectionate, devoted, gentle lap dog that loves company. They are a playful and energetic breed, but also very happy to cuddle up on the sofa and will always want to sleep on your bed. Being so placid, they are often used as therapy dogs and are good with children of all ages. They don't cope well if left alone for too long as they crave company, but aren't the sort of dog that is under your feet all the time. With training, they learn quite quickly but can mess around and lie on their backs for a tummy rub too often. This endearing quality is typical of the breed. They have wonderful soulful eyes and will always come up to you when you're feeling low. They enjoy walks and are happy when out exploring new smells and chasing anything that moves. They won't always come back if something sparks their interest. Like most spaniels, they can be greedy, but this should help with training. A healthy breed, but owners should watch for over feeding/obesity and Chronic Hip Dysplasia which can be a problem for the breed. Their long fur will get matted if not groomed regularly - not a problem with Cavaliers as they love the attention. They will need a trim a couple of times a year.
Temperament
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have an affectionate and gentle temperament. These dogs will not make an enemy of anyone and will fit into a household with other pets or small children easily. Very gentle in nature these dogs love a good walk in the country as much as a cuddle on the sofa.
Very sweet tempered it is important to socialise them early to prevent timidity and be warned, they will not be happy if you leave them alone for too long as they crave your companionship.
Health Problems
Health problems which may affect Cavalier King Charles Spaniels include mitral valve disease (heart condition that almost all in the breed will suffer from as they age), canine hip dysplasia (CHD), luxating patella (dislocation of knee cap), syringomyelia (brain and spine condition that can cause paralysis) and various eye and ear problems.
Breed Details
- Status: Common
- Life Expectancy: 9 - 14 years
- Weight: 5.4 - 8.2 kg
- Height: 12 - 13"
- Rare: No
- Coat: Medium
- Grooming Requirements: More than once per week
- Town or Country: Either
- Minimum Home Size: Flat
- Minimum Garden Size: Small to Medium Garden
- Breed Type: Toy Dog
- Size: Small
- Energy Level: Medium
- Exercise Required: Up to 1 hour
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Pictures
Latest Reviews For Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (4 of 4)
a lite of sunshine - Jennifer,
my baby is so good loves our bed(takes it over ha) loves walks never comes back when out walking but after a while she does she will walk miles ahead of u but if she don’t see you she rite back at your side i had a death with a dear friend and was very sad and boy did my baby stay by my side for ages she loves to play but eats any toy she been given had her first grooming today was very quite after it but came around hats been alone but my grandsons love the bones of her as she does them a great joy to our family it’s what we all needed they give you a lot of TLC as well as getting it
Blessed to have been Barons mama - Linda,
Baron was vibrant and loving good natured he was a wonderful therapy dog as well as service to me He was AKC and CKC registered. He lived 13 years and had cardiomyopathy last 4years. He loved his grooming times.
- Anne,
Very gentle, intelligent breed. Trains very easily to most anything. Loves people. Won't chew your furniture, shoes etc. Must have toys; mine prefers soft toys like stuffed type. Wonderful companion. Sheds a bit but who doesn't.
I love this breed - Daisy,
I love this breed and think they are amazing. They are very good with children and make a great pet.