Cavalier King Charles Spaniel -
Purebred Dogs and Puppies

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavaliers NEED human contact, and do not do well in kennels or left alone. They are indeed lap dogs and are always happiest in the company of their family.

Many owners call them "the ultimate lap dog" or the "quintessential lap dog". The true purpose of this dog breed has always been that of a companion dog. Call them the perfect lap dog, if you like.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the number one toy dog in England and considered one of the largest toy dog breeds. All in all, the Cavalier makes an excellent companion dog for all types of household.

These dogs spent most of their early days warming the laps of royalty or sleeping in their beds to attract fleas to them (not to the royals) preventing diseases like the plague).

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The Cavalier interacts well with children and is an active, graceful, well-balanced toy spaniel, very happy and free in action; fearless and sporting in character, yet at the same time gentle and affectionate.

It is this typical temperament, combined with true elegance and royal appearance which are of ultimate importance in this dog breed. They are descended from toy spaniels.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is slightly larger than the King Charles Spaniel. In addition, the Cavalier King Charles has a skull that is almost flat between the ears and his stop is much shallower than that of the King Charles. There are four recognized coat colors: King Charles - black and tan Blenheim - red and white Prince Charles - tricolor Ruby - rich mahogany red King Charles was a big fan of this little dog breed and never went anywhere without his own dogs. As such, he later lent his name to the breed. When the monarchy fell so too did the popularity of this dog breed - in fact, they almost became extinct. In 1923 an American dog enthusiast named Roswell Eldridge wanted to revive the breed which did help the rebirth of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel from that time onward. The Cavalier King Charles stands around 11 to 12 inches at the shoulder and typically weighs between 12 and 18lb. Natural appearance, with no trimming, sculpting, or artificial alteration is essential to breed type so grooming needs are very minimal. The Cavalier is a beautiful little dog that is relatively clean, loves children and gets along well with other pets. He is a gentle, affectionate, and sweet tempered breed that is also friendly toward strangers.

The Cavalier has long, fine, slightly wavy fur. Regular brushing is essential to keep the coat from getting tangled. Check the paws regularly for any sign of cysts and check the ears as well for canker, which can often detected by an unpleasant smell. The Cavalier also needs a monthly bath.

These dogs easily adapts to apartment living provided they get enough exercise of 1 or 2 walks per day. Just so you'll know, a fun fact of the Cavalier is the nickname they've received over the years - the "love sponge of dogs".

Country of origin: England
Lifespan: 9-12 years
Colors: Tricolored, ruby, black and tan, blenheim
Known health problems: Luxating patellas, hip dysplasia, eye disorders, Episodic Falling, Syringomyelia, cardiac problems - especially mitral valve diesase
Famous Cavaliers: U.S. President Ronald Reagan's pet Rex; Lauren Bacall had 2 Cavaliers; Frank Sinatra had 4 Cavaliers

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