The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is loving and affectionate. They won’t miss a chance to jump in their owner’s lap. They follow their people everywhere. Cavaliers are gentle dogs with the athleticism of a spotting spaniel. Let’s know about Cavalier King Charles Spaniel in detail.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dog Breed Overview
| Group: | Toy |
| Size: | Small (13-18 pounds) |
| Lifespan: | 12-15 Years |
| Best Suited For: | Families |
| Temperament: | Loving, Gentle, Graceful |
| Exercise Needs: | Moderate |
| Drooling Potential: | Low |
| Grooming Needs: | Moderate |
| Similar Breeds: | English Cocker Spaniel, Beagle |
1. Basic Features
Though they are a toy breed, Cavaliers are much like their spaniel cousins. They too enjoy long walks and hikes. The dog is famous for their smooth and silky coat. There are four common colors namely Blenheim (Chestnut and white), Tricolour (black, white and tan), Ruby, and black and tan.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is great with children and other animals. They have large round eyes and gentle expressions which is also the breed hallmark. They have a certain grace about them. Cavalier King Charles spaniels are dogs with an even temper. They are sweet and beautiful.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Origin
Toy spaniels existed in Europe since the 1500s.
There are many famous painters who painted them in the 16th, 17th as well as the 18th century.
It is from these toy spaniels itself that the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel originated. These dogs were quite famous as pets, especially as ladies’ pets.
They remained the favorite of people even in the 19th century. These dogs were crossed with Asian toy breeds and were called as the English Toy Spaniel. Though these new dogs dominated the traditional type of spaniels, the old ones were not completely forgotten.
Much later a wealthy American offered a cash prize to breeders who could bring back the old-type of toy spaniels which were found in the old paintings. These dogs were the Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
3. The Personality of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a playful and loving dog. They are small and easygoing. The Cavaliers may be small but they are all heart. They love spending time with their family.
Always happy and trusting, they make friends with everyone they meet. They are extremely sociable and always eager to meet strangers and everyone they cross paths with. For this reason, they may not be an excellent choice for a guard dog.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Behavior
The Cavaliers are known to have many personalities. They may be sweet or even stubborn. They are usually very placid and easy to please. For this reason, Cavaliers may even have a reputation of being dumb.
They are chasers and love chasing small objects. Cavaliers are also known for their love of licking. They can even turn aggressive and resort to destructive behavior like excessive barking and digging if bored.
5. Exercise Requirements
A daily walk is essential for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. A walk, accompanied with some play will suffice their exercise needs. An open area to play in will please them. However, a fenced area will always be a better option.
Also, keep him in a leash whenever in traffic or public places. These dogs may develop behavioral problems if their need for exercise is not fulfilled.
6. Diet Needs
Whether your dog enjoys being a lap dog or is an active one, a well-balanced diet is always important. The diet should have a balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It should also contain vitamins and minerals. Proteins are highly important as it helps in growth and development.
Make sure that the protein in your dog’s diet is coming from a high-quality source. Chicken and fish are the best options. For fats, animal-based products work the best. Fats are also very important for your Cavalier as it provides great energy.
Whole grains and other carbs like brown rice and sweet potatoes can fulfill the carbohydrate needs in your Cavaliers body.
7. Trainability
The Cavaliers are sweet and very eager to please their humans. They are friendly and smart which makes them easily trainable.
These dogs also excel in a number of different dog sports.
Easy socialization and training classes are recommended for them.
These dogs are friendly with other animals and do very well with children.
8. Common Health Problems
There are a few genetic health issues that a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel may have to go through. Mitral valve disease is a heart condition which may lead to heart failure. Cavaliers may develop this disease at a fairly early age.
Syringomyelia or SM is another condition affecting the Cavaliers brain and spine. This may have certain symptoms like sensitivity around the head and neck or even partial paralysis. If any such symptoms are observed, it is important to immediately take the Cavalier to the vet.
Episodic Falling, hip dysplasia, Patellar Luxation, Dry eye are some common health conditions which may appear in your Cavalier.
Always look for signs and symptoms and consult a vet if needed.
9. Who Should Adopt a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?
A Cavalier is a dog who loves his owners. They will follow their owner everywhere throughout the day. They do not prefer being alone for long hours. Thus, an ideal home for them would be one where there are people at home all the time. A retired couple or someone who works from home would be an ideal owner for the Cavalier.
This breed is suitable for kids. However, be careful around toddlers as younger children may be hard on them. Otherwise, these dogs are suitable for anyone needing a friendly and loving companion.