Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Origins and History

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel descends from toy spaniels favoured by the English aristocracy in the 16th and 17th centuries. The modern type was refined in the 1920s by American breeder Roswell Eldridge after he discovered a small, silky‑coated spaniel in a London shop window that resembled the dogs seen in paintings of King Charles II. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1995 and by The Kennel Club (UK) in 2000, solidifying its status as a distinct toy companion breed.

General Characteristics

• Compact, well‑balanced body with a level topline and a slightly rounded skull.
• Affectionate, people‑oriented temperament; excels as a companion and therapy dog.
• Originally bred for companionship; today the breed excels in conformation, obedience, and rally events.

Physical Specifications

• Height: 12‑13 inches (30‑33 cm) at the withers for both males and females.
• Weight: 13‑18 lb (6‑8 kg) for both sexes, proportionate to height and build.

Coat and Color

• Medium‑length, silky, flat‑lying coat with feathering on ears, legs, and tail.
• Four accepted colors: Blenheim (chestnut and white), Tricolor (black, white, and tan), Ruby (solid rich red), and Black & Tan (black with tan markings).

Temperament Considerations

Cavaliers are eager to please and highly social, but they can be sensitive to harsh correction. Their desire for human interaction makes them responsive to positive‑reinforcement methods.

Training Essentials

• Early socialization with people, children, and other pets is essential to prevent over‑attachment and shyness.
• Moderate daily exercise (30‑45 minutes) satisfies their energy without overstressing their delicate joints.
• Common challenges include occasional clinginess and a tendency toward separation anxiety; crate training and gradual desensitization help mitigate these issues.

Daily Grooming

• Brush 2‑3 times per week with a slicker brush or pin brush to prevent matting and remove loose hair.
• Bath as needed; a mild dog shampoo keeps the coat glossy without stripping natural oils.
• Trim nails weekly, clean ears regularly, and brush teeth at least 3‑4 times weekly to maintain oral health.

Show Preparation

• Begin a 2‑week grooming schedule before the show: hand‑trim coat to the required length, shape feathering, and ensure a smooth, even finish.
• Clean ears, clip toenails to a uniform length, and perform a thorough dental check to avoid foul breath in the ring.
• Present the dog in a balanced, relaxed stance; the head should be level, eyes bright, and tail carried in a gentle curve.

Common Health Issues

• Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) – progressive cardiac condition; recommended annual cardiac auscultation and echocardiogram starting at age 3.
• Syringomyelia – fluid‑filled cavities in the brainstem; MRI screening for breeding stock and symptomatic dogs.
• Patellar Luxation – intermittent knee dislocation; orthopedic exam and radiographs as indicated.
• Hip Dysplasia – less common in this toy breed but screened via hip radiographs for breeding programs.
• Cataracts and other hereditary eye disorders – annual CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation) examinations.

General Care

• Provide 30‑45 minutes of moderate exercise daily to maintain muscle tone and joint health.
• Feed a high‑quality, age‑appropriate diet; monitor body condition to avoid obesity, which can exacerbate cardiac and joint issues.
• Average lifespan is 12‑15 years; regular veterinary wellness exams help detect age‑related problems early.