Home » Dog Breeds » Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dog Breed
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dog Breed
ALLAN REZNIK
03/07/2024
About the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (correctly shortened to “Cavalier,” not “King Charles”) is a graceful, active, well-balanced toy spaniel, gay and free in action, fearless and sporting in nature, yet at the same time gentle and affectionate. It is this typical happy and carefree temperament, combined with true elegance and royal appearance which are of paramount importance in the breed. Natural appearance with no trimming, sculpting or artificial alteration is essential to breed type.
AKC Group
Toy Group
Height
12 – 13 inches
Weight
13 – 18 pounds
Lifespan
12 – 15 years
Highlights
Country of Origin
England
Bred For
Companionship
Known For
Sweet Nature, Elegant Appearance, Desire to Please
Popularity
High
Temperament
Happy, friendly, non-aggressive, with no tendency towards nervousness or shyness.
Activities
Dog Shows, Obedience, Agility, Rally, Walking
History of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Today’s Cavalier is descended from the small toy spaniels seen in so many paintings of the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries by Titian, Van Dyck, Lely, Stubbs, Gainsborough, Reynolds, and Romney. These paintings depict small spaniels with flat heads, high-set ears, almond eyes, and rather pointed noses. During Tudor times, toy spaniels were quite common as ladies’ pets, and under the Stuarts they were given the royal title of King Charles Spaniels. King Charles II was seldom seen without two or three toy spaniels at his heels. So fond was he of his little dogs that he wrote a decree that the King Charles Spaniel should be accepted in any public place, even in the Houses of Parliament, where animals were not usually allowed. This decree is still in existence today in England. As time went by, and with the coming of the Dutch court, toy spaniels went out of fashion and were replaced in popularity by the Pug. In time, the moderate toy spaniels of the past gave way to dogs with a completely flat face, undershot jaw, domed skull with long, low-set ears and large, round, frontal eyes associated with the modern English Toy Spaniel (as it is known in North America; King Charles Spaniel everywhere else in the world).
In the mid-1920s, an American, Roswell Eldredge, went to England in search of the old type spaniels with the moderate face and muzzle that he saw in the paintings by the masters. Disappointed to hear those dogs were extinct, he offered a prize of 25 pounds at Crufts, the world-famous dog show, to the first breeder who succeeded in recreating the old type “nosey” spaniels that were favored by King Charles II. In 1927 a dog named Ann’s Son was declared the winner of Eldredge’s money prize, and in 1928 a Breed Standard was drawn up using Ann’s Son as the model.
The first Cavaliers were sent to America in 1952, and in 1956 a national club was formed, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club, USA. The AKC admitted the breed into the Miscellaneous Class. There it remained until the early 1990s. Club specialties were held for the breed, but the majority of members did not wish for the breed to gain AKC recognition. A group of member-breeders who did favor AKC recognition formed the American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club in 1993 and went to the AKC, asking to become the parent club. AKC granted the request. On January 1, 1996, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel became the AKC’s 140th recognized breed. Interestingly, the CKCSC,USA is still very much in existence, maintaining its registry and holding specialty shows monthly in various regions of the country.
General Appearance
Height & Weight
12 to 13 inches at the withers; weight proportionate to height, between 13 and 18 pounds.
Proportion & Substance
The body approaches squareness, yet if measured from point of shoulder to point of buttock, is slightly longer than height at the withers. Bone is moderate in proportion to size. Weedy and coarse specimens are to be equally penalized.
Coat Texture, Color and Markings
Texture: Silky, free from curl, slight wave permissible.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Colors
Standard Color
Blenheim
ee
Black & Tan
ee
Black & White
ee
Ruby
ee
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Markings
Standard Marking
Tan Markings
ee
A Note about Color: Blenheim – Rich chestnut markings well broken up on a clear, pearly white background. Ears must be chestnut, with color surrounding both eyes, and a white blaze. The lozenge or “Blenheim spot” on top of the head is unique and desirable, though not essential. Tricolor – Jet black markings, well broken up on a clear, pearly white background, with rich tan markings over the eyes, on cheeks, inside the ears, and on the underside of the tail. Ruby – Whole-colored rich red. Black and Tan – Jet black with rich, bright tan markings over the eyes, on cheeks, inside the ears, and on the chest, legs, and on the underside of the tail. Faults are heavy ticking on Blenheims and Tricolors; white marks on Rubies and Black and Tans.
Head
Skull: Slightly rounded, but without dome or peak; it should appear flat because of the high placement of the ears. Stop is moderate, neither filled nor deep.
Expression: The sweet, gentle, melting expression is an important breed characteristic.
Eyes: Large, round but not prominent and set well apart; color a warm, very dark brown, giving a lustrous, limpid look. Rims dark. There should be cushioning under the eyes which contributes to the soft expression.
Ears: Set high, but not close, on top of the head. Leather long with plenty of feathering and wide enough so that when the dog is alert, the ears fan slightly forward to frame the face.
Muzzle: Full, slightly tapered. Length from base of stop to tip of nose about 1-1/2 inches. Face well filled below the eyes.
Nose: Uniformly black without flesh marks and nostrils well developed.
Bite: A perfect, regular and complete scissors bite is preferred.
Tail
Well set on, carried happily but never much above the level of the back, and in constant, characteristic motion when the dog is in action.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – What to Consider?
The Cavalier is a delightful little breed, a “sporting toy,” sturdy enough to enjoy outdoor activities yet content to be a lap dog and get utterly spoiled by an indulgent owner. His tail is ever wagging, and at dog shows Cavaliers have a hard time staying still, being much too interested in all the goings on. They make perfect family companions for owners of all ages, gentle with seniors and kind children. They are easily trained and have a great desire to please. They have an elegance about them, a royal air, yet their grooming needs are manageable, and with four different colors and patterns to choose from, owners can find a dog that suits their personal tastes.
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals will vary. While some breeds may only show genuine warmth towards their owner, remaining standoffish with strangers, other breeds will treat everyone they meet as if they are their closest friend.
IndependentAffectionate
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed. Although supervision is always recommended during introductions, certain breeds tend to be inherently more or less sociable with other dogs, whether in a home setting or in public spaces.
Not RecommendedReliable With Other Dogs
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children, and its overall suitability as a family member, will vary. It is important to always supervise interactions between dogs and the kids in the house, as well as with children who are not accustomed to being around dogs.
Not RecommendedDependable With Children
Upkeep
Amount Of Shedding
The amount of hair that a dog sheds will typically depend on its breed. Heavy-shedding breeds require more frequent brushing, have a higher chance of activating specific allergies, and often necessitate more frequent use of the vacuum cleaner and lint rollers.
LowHigh
Frequency Of Grooming
The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat care is an all-important consideration. When evaluating the grooming effort required, consider your available time, patience, and budget. It is important to note that all breeds need routine ear, teeth, and nail care.
MonthlyDaily
Amount Of Drooling
The tendency of a breed to drool significantly varies from breed to breed. For those who prefer cleanliness or are particular about keeping things tidy, breeds that are likely to leave trails of drool on your arm or large slobbery marks on your clothing and furniture might not be the best fit.
LowHigh
Coat Type
smooth
wiry
hairless
rough
corded
double
curly
wavy
sikly
Coat Length
short
medium
long
Behavior
Acceptance Of New People
The likelihood of a breed to be friendly towards strangers will vary. While some breeds may consistently exhibit reserve or caution around unfamiliar people, regardless of the setting, others are often eager to greet and interact with any new person they meet.
ReservedOutgoing
Protective Nature
The propensity of a dog to notify you of the presence of strangers is breed-dependent. Some breeds are more inclined to respond to any perceived threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, most breeds are generally more accepting of strangers who are welcomed by their human family members.
Minimal InterestMaximum Vigilance
Playfulness Level
The likelihood of a breed remaining playful beyond puppyhood will vary. Certain breeds retain their enthusiasm for activities like tug-of-war or games of fetch well into their adult years, whereas others are more content to simply lounge on the sofa with you for the majority of time.
LowHigh
Adaptability Level
The ease with which a breed can adapt to changes in its environment can vary greatly. This adaptability encompasses how well a breed is likely to cope with alterations to its home and yard, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines, and other fluctuations in everyday life.
LowHigh
Personality
Trainability Level
The ease with which a dog can be trained and its eagerness to learn new skills can depend on the breed. Some breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and will readily accept training, while others tend to follow their own desires, often showing independence in how, when, and where they choose to do things.
StubbornEager
Barking Level
The frequency of vocalization, including barking and howling, will vary from breed to breed. Some may bark at each person who passes by and every bird in the sky, while others will typically bark only for a good reason. Additionally, a few breeds that do not typically bark will still be vocal, using different sounds to communicate.
QuietVocal
Energy Level
The level of physical exercise and mental engagement required will depend on the breed. High-energy breeds are always on the go. They are enthusiastic about their next activity and tend to be busy most of the time, running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to couch potatoes, content to just lounge around and take naps throughout the day.
Couch PotatoBusybody
Need For Mental Stimulation
The extent of mental stimulation needed to keep a dog content and healthy will vary by breed. Dogs bred for specific purposes may need tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs can resort to creating their own activities to engage their minds, resulting in unwanted behaviors like chewing, digging, and escaping.
Minimal EngagementIntensive Interaction
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Health
Like all breeds, Cavaliers can have health issues, but responsible breeders are rigorous in screening for these afflictions and use the soundest dogs in their breeding program. They provide documentation on the health status of sires and dams, and stand behind their dogs. Likewise, Cavalier clubs around the world recommend best practices to promote the breeding of mature, health-tested adults.
Lifespan: Well-cared-for Cavaliers that come from health-tested parents and see the veterinarian at regular intervals can live comfortably into the double digits.
Potential Health Risks
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) recommends that Cavaliers be tested for hip dysplasia, patellar luxation (kneecaps popping out of place, a condition that affects many smaller breeds), receive eye exams, and an annual cardiac evaluation performed by a Board-certified cardiologist.
Cavaliers do not generally suffer from any serious eye problems, but they can inherit juvenile cataracts, retinal dysplasia, and other eye diseases.
The number one health concern in the breed is heart disease, specifically Mitral Valve Disease (MVD). It is a weakness or defect in the mitral valve or left atrioventricular valve that allows some blood to move back into the left atrium. This is known as mitral regurgitation. This means the heart is less efficient at pumping blood through the body.
Another disorder that can affect Cavaliers is Syringomyelia (SM), in which a cyst or herniation forms within the spinal cord. SM causes a wide variety of neuropathic symptoms due to damage and degeneration of the spinal cord. Pain is the most important clinical sign of the disease. SM appears in many species, including dogs, and especially in the majority of Toy breeds.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Personality
Cavaliers are gentle, fun loving and must be with their people in order to thrive. Known throughout history as the “comforter spaniel,” they were never bred to be anything other than a gentle companion and lap dog. They adore their comforts, and will go to great lengths to manipulate their owners so they can claim the best furniture. It was also important to the royals that Cavaliers retain a sporting nature, so they could run behind a horse and enjoy a day’s activities outside the palace walls.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Feeding & Nutrition
Cavaliers are not known to be picky eaters. In fact, pet Cavaliers are frequently a few pounds overweight because their indulgent owners cannot resist their dogs’ beguiling expression.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Training
Cavaliers are easily trained because they want to please. They make a perfect first dog for inexperienced owners. Early and ongoing socialization is important because, otherwise, they can become needy and clingy, and suffer from separation anxiety. Puppy Kindergarten classes are an excellent way to expose Cavalier puppies to other dogs of all sizes, as well as build confidence in new owners.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Exercise
The breed is very adaptable in its exercise needs, and for this reason, has become a popular choice for apartment dwellers. A few daily walks on leash will suffice, but Cavaliers will certainly enjoy jogs, hikes, and even swims with more athletically inclined owners.
For a long-coated breed, grooming the Cavalier is not an overwhelming chore. Line brushing (in layers, to reach the skin) a few times a week will remove the dead coat, reduce shedding, and keep a Cavalier looking tidy. Ears, tail, tummy, profuse foot coat, and feathering behind the legs can get tangled, and so gentle combing in these areas is advised. In addition, your Cavalier will require regular cleaning of eyes and ears, tooth brushing, and baths when needed. Once a Cavalier is spayed or neutered, the silky coat will be replaced by a thick, cottony or wooly coat that can prove challenging. For this reason, many pet owners opt for an occasional visit to a professional groomer for a bath and trim to keep the spay coat on the shorter side, and under control.
Grooming Expectations
Coat Type
Wiry, Silky, Medium length
Grooming Requirements
Brushing several times a week. Comb the thick, feathered ears, chest, and foot coat to keep these free of tangles.
Living with a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavaliers are easy, mellow dogs to live with. They are the largest of the Toy breeds; not tiny and frail, yet portable enough to take to the office, travel on city transit, and tuck under your seat in the cabin of a plane. Although they were bred by English royalty and today seem to be the chosen companion of every celebrity and media VIP, they are just as happy living in a big-city apartment or frolicking in a suburban backyard. A royal breed but not a snob.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Puppies
Caring for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Puppy
Cavaliers take their job as comforter spaniels very seriously. They are cuddlers, and easily trained. Early on, get your puppy used to grooming and bathing, nail trimming, and spending time in his crate with toys. If this is your first dog, Puppy Kindergarten classes are highly recommended for both of you; he will learn basic commands in an environment of distractions, and you will develop confidence in interacting with your Cavalier.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Activities & Dog Sports
Cavaliers are an intelligent and versatile breed that will happily participate in whatever activities you care to pursue. If you are hoping to compete in performance events, Cavaliers are very successful in Obedience, Agility, and Rally. They also make great little show dogs, if your breeder thinks he has the potential. Most all-breed kennel clubs offer handling classes to start you on your way. Pet therapy is another area in which Cavaliers excel, and many owners get great pleasure from taking their dogs to visit hospitals and senior citizens’ facilities.
Group Classification & Standards
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is recognized by the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:
International Organizations
Organization
Group Designation
AKC (American Kennel Club)
Toy
UKC (United Kennel Club)
Companion Dog
CKC (Canadian Kennel Club)
Toys
ANKC (Australian National Kennel Council)
Toys
RKC (The Royal Kennel Club)
Toy
FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale)
Group 9: Companions and Toy Dogs; Section 7: English Toy Spaniels
The ideal Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:
The Origin of the “Blenheim Spot”: The Blenheim Spot, a unique and highly prized spot on top of the head of many Blenheim Cavaliers, is also known as the “mark of the Duchess Thumb Print.” The legend goes that Sarah Churchill, Duchess of Marlborough, while awaiting news of her husband’s safe return from the Battle of Blenheim, pressed the head of an expectant Cavalier dam with her thumb, resulting in five puppies all bearing the lucky mark.
Queen Victoria’s Love Affair with Cavaliers: Queen Victoria was passionate about many dog breeds, including Cavaliers. Her favorite Cavalier was a beloved tricolor named Dash, whose image has been captured in countless paintings, prints, and needlepoints. It is said she was so head over heels in love with Dash that, on the day of her coronation, in 1837, she left the grand event, changed her clothes, and gave her little spaniel a bath.
A New King Charles Gives Even More Visibility to the Breed: The Cavalier has always been hugely popular in England, but with Prince Charles recently becoming King Charles, there has been an even greater global spotlight shone on the breed. A hundred or more Cavalier owners braved the rain with their dogs to line the streets and pay their respects to the new King Charles, a sight that was captured on YouTube, and shared on television newscasts the world over.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Cavaliers King Charles Spaniels with a Blenheim spot more valuable?
Not necessarily. The spot or lozenge is considered icing on the cake for a show dog; it is unique and special, but not a requirement, so there are many worthy Blenheim champions without the spot, and many well-loved non-champion pets that do sport the Blenheim spot.
Do temperaments of the four colors/patterns differ?
They actually do. Blenheims, the red-and-white dogs, are the most popular and frequently seen, and also the most mellow and easygoing. Tricolors are slightly higher energy. The wholecolors—the solid red (Ruby) and the black-and-tan dogs are definitely bouncier and busier than their parti-color cousins. Ruby Cavaliers are typical redheads, with a mischievous streak and a devilish sense of humor.
Why are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels so expensive?
The public has fickle tastes when it comes to dogs. Cavaliers, associated as they are with royalty, have always been prized, and considered exclusive. While Cavaliers don’t come cheap, especially those from established, long-time breeders who rigorously health test, they are probably less costly than some of the “designer dogs” that are, basically, mixed breeds with silly names that are being produced purely for profit. Choose a Cavalier breeder with care; go to the parent club websites for guidance; and ask to see up-to-date results of health testing.
ALLAN REZNIK
Although Allan Reznik has worn many hats in the dog show world over the past 50 years, he is probably best known as an award-winning journalist and broadcaster. He was the Editor-in-Chief of Dogs in Canada, Dog World, Dog Fancy and Dogs in Review magazines. All four publications received national honors from the Dog Writers Association of America while under his stewardship. Reznik appears regularly on national TV and radio to discuss the dog show sport as well as all aspects of responsible animal ownership. He has bred and shown champion Afghan Hounds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Tibetan Spaniels. He is currently an approved AKC judge of all three breeds, as well as a provisional/permit judge of 11 additional breeds.
