Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Summary
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a recreation, developed in the 1920s–1930s, of the old English long-faced Spaniel that appears in 17th-century paintings — prior to the cross with the Pug that gave rise to the modern King Charles Spaniel. It is slightly larger than the King Charles and with a longer muzzle, which results in fewer respiratory problems. It is currently one of the most popular companion breeds in the world due to its exceptionally gentle and adaptable nature.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Small
- Height (male)
- 30–33 cm
- Height (female)
- 28–31 cm
- Weight (male)
- 5.9–8.2 kg
- Weight (female)
- 5.4–7.7 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Silky, long, and slightly wavy; fringes on ears, paws, and tail
- Common Colors
- Blenheim (chestnut-red and white), Tricolor (black, white, and tan), Black and Tan (black and tan), Ruby (solid red)
Temperament & Personality
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is widely considered one of the most affectionate and gentle companion dogs in existence. It is sociable, adaptable, and rarely aggressive, getting along exceptionally well with children, the elderly, other dogs, and cats. It is intelligent and learns easily, although it is more motivated by human proximity than by task accomplishment. It combines the athletic instinct of a hunting Spaniel with the gentleness of a lap dog.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 40–60 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Moderate
- Shedding
- Moderate to heavy
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 3–4 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Eye problems
- Heart disease
- Hip dysplasia
- Patellar luxation
- Syringomyelia and Chiari malformation (serious neurological condition, highly prevalent in the breed)
- Recommended Health Tests
- Annual cardiac exam (mandatory breeding protocol for responsible breeders)
- Eye examination
- MRI for syringomyelia
- Orthopedic evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Excellent
- With Cats
- Excellent
- For First-Time Owners
- Recommended
