In the 16th century the nobility favored small Spaniels. They warmed the laps of ladies in carriages and were believed to have healing powers. They were variously called “Spaniel Gentle” or “Comforter”.
Over the years, as the Pug overtook the Spaniel in popularity, they may have been bred with Pugs or other flat-nosed breeds as breeders attempted to recreate a dog resembling the Restoration-era dog belonging to Charles II, who was rarely seen without his little dogs.
In the late 1700s, they were used for hunting, now Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a popular companion dog.
The affectionate Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is gentle, sweet and polite with people
Personality
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a very loving, mischievous, patient and eager to please. This breed are good with kids and more noticeably – they like other dogs. They make a great pet for an older person.
Cavaliers are not shy about socializing with much larger dogs. This ability to bond with both big and small dogs makes them an ideal companion for another dog. They adapt well to almost any environment, family and location.
Cavaliers are active dogs with a strong chase instinct. All Spaniels have a strong hunting instinct so they must not be left outside at night where they can chase native animals. They are best walked on a lead for their daily exercise or closely supervised off-leash.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is not known for its watchdog tendencies; however, like all dogs, it will alert its owners when there is a stranger or potential threat near its territory.
Their love of food makes them easy to train.
Upkeep
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels need weekly brushing. They enjoy the attention they get from grooming.
Being an active dog, the Cavalier needs a daily walk and a romp in the garden.
Like all dogs, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel requires regular tick, flea, intestinal worms and heartworm treatments. Consult your veterinarian on treatment options. Desexing and vaccination against diseases, such as the deadly parvo virus and highly infectious canine cough, are also important to discuss with your vet.
Compatibility
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the ideal lap dog and great as an older person’s pet, but they also do well with children and young, active families.
These dogs are content with apartment life. They don’t need a great deal of space as long as they get daily exercise and attention.
Fact file
Breed classification Toy
Size Small
Origin Great Britain
Lifespan 12-15 years
Colors Blenheim (rich chestnut and white), tricolour (black, white and brown), black and tan and ruby
Cost $700-$1000. Common hereditary problem Mitral valve disease (MVD) and dry eye.
