Appearance The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an active, graceful, well-balanced toy spaniel, very gay and free in action; fearless and sporting in character, yet at the same time gentle and affectionate. It is this typical gay 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.
Temperament A good natured and loving animal, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a dog that makes a marvelous pet and companion. This is a dog that has a cheerful outlook, is very friendly, obedient, and sociable. These dogs love to play, and have a sweet and gentle nature that makes them perfect for family pets and companions. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is fine for the more inexperienced dog owner as well as those with experience of dog ownership. Although the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an energetic and playful little dog, he also loves to snuggle up with his owners, and is a devoted and loyal creature.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel gets along well with children and has plenty of affection to shower upon them, particularly with older and more considerate children. They are fine with strangers, and tend to get on well with other dogs and cats, although they may try and chase smaller animals or birds. Some Cavalier King Charles Spaniels may be a little shy, and this is why early socialization when he is a puppy is essential. Eager to please and intelligent, training the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel shouldn't prove a problem. He doesn't like being left on his own for long periods of time.
History The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a breed rich in history, allied with the royals in England as they were championed by King Charles I and Charles II. He is pictured in the paintings of many an old master—Titian, Gainsborough, Van Dyck, among others. Known familiarly as a toy “Comforter” spaniel, the cavalier was never bred to be anything other than a small, beloved gentle pet, a lap dog to be sure, but also sporting in nature in that he could run behind a horse and enjoy a day’s activities outside the palace walls. Those breed characteristics endure to this day, and indeed are essential to a sound and happy cavalier.
Health The life expectancy of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is around 10-15 years, and there are a number of health issues and disorders that have been linked to this breed. This includes luxating patella, cataracts, MVD, and retinal disorders. The parents of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel should have OFA and CERF certificates, and because these dogs or so prone to heart problems should also have clear heart examination results.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Breed Clubs/Associatons
To add your official club/association, simply contact us and let us know your club's web address or contact details.
Registered Breed Clubs
None Registered at This Time..
Other Breed Clubs
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club of Canada
American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club - U.S.A.
You're viewing Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed information