Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Alternative names: Cavalier, Cavalier Spaniel
History of the breed
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an elegant and charming companion dog with a royal heritage. This breed descends from small spaniels that were beloved by European nobility since the 16th century. King Charles II of England was particularly fond of these dogs, hence their name. Over the years, the Cavalier has been bred into a companion dog known for its friendly nature and beautiful appearance. Today, it is one of the most popular small dog breeds in the world.
Character and temperament
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is gentle, sociable, and incredibly devoted to its owner. It's friendly with everyone and easily adapts to various situations. This breed is playful, but also content to cuddle on the couch. It has a gentle and easygoing personality, making it good with children, other dogs, and even cats. Its need for companionship makes it less suitable for long periods of time alone.
Physical characteristics
- Shoulder height: 30-33 cm
- Weight: 5-8 kg
- Coat: Long, silky and slightly wavy with feathering on the ears, legs and tail
- Colors: Blenheim (chestnut and white), tricolor (black and white with tan markings), ruby (solid red), and black & tan
- Sizes for collars and harnesses:
- Collar: Neck circumference 25-35 cm (size S/M)
- Harness: Chest circumference 40-50 cm (size M)
Care and shedding
The Cavalier has a beautiful, long coat that requires regular brushing to prevent tangles. Weekly brushing is usually sufficient, but extra care may be necessary during shedding seasons. This breed sheds moderately. Regular ear checks are important to prevent ear infections, especially because they have drooping ears.
Movement and activity
Despite its small size, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is active and enjoys daily walks and play sessions. It doesn't require excessive exercise, but daily mental and physical stimulation helps keep it happy and healthy.
Barking
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel isn't an excessive barker. He'll raise his voice if he notices something unusual, but he's generally calm and not overly alert.
Good with kids?
This breed is known for its gentle and patient nature, making it excellent with children. It loves to play and cuddle, and its friendly disposition makes it a perfect family dog. However, it's important that children learn to handle it gently, as it's small and fragile.
Health
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a loving breed, but it does have some hereditary health problems, including:
- Mitral valve disease (heart disease)
- Syringomyelia (neurological disorder)
- Ear infections due to drooping ears
- Patellar luxation (loose kneecaps)
The average life expectancy is 10-15 years.
Power supply
Due to its compact size, the Cavalier requires a balanced diet that matches its energy expenditure. An adult dog typically eats 100-200 grams of food per day, depending on its activity level. It's important to avoid excess weight, as this can put extra strain on its joints and heart.
Training and socialization
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is intelligent and eager to learn, making it easy to train. It responds well to positive reinforcement and quickly learns basic commands and tricks. Early socialization helps it become confident and comfortable in a variety of environments.
Suitability for owners
This breed is ideal for families, seniors, and those seeking an affectionate and sociable companion. It's a good fit for both apartments and houses with gardens, as long as it receives plenty of attention. Its affectionate nature makes it less suitable for people who spend long days away from home.
Share your experience with us!
Do you own a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel? Send a photo of your dog to customerservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. Want to contribute to a video for FidelloTV? Schedule an appointment using the same email address and receive €20 in store credit as a thank you for participating!