Mary Allen
This breed is very old nobility: The ancestors of today’s Cavalier King Charles Spaniel were already mentioned in documents from the 15th and 16th centuries. Find out everything about the behavior, character, activity and exercise needs, education and care of the dog breed Cavalier King Charles Spaniel in the profile.
This breed is very old nobility: The ancestors of today’s Cavalier King Charles Spaniel were already mentioned in documents from the 15th and 16th centuries and are also recorded in old paintings. In high society, they were often kept as playmates for children – to this day, they have lost none of their enthusiasm for the offspring. The first entry in the Kennel Club stud book for this breed can be found in 1892.
General Appearance
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is active, graceful and well-balanced, with a gentle expression. He has a long, silky coat that falls uncurled or with slight waves. Colours: Black and white with red markings, maroon on a white background, black and red, deep red or black and tan.
Behavior and temperament
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are enterprising, loving, absolutely fearless. Cheerful, friendly, non-quarrelsome, no tendency to get nervous. They fit in every apartment, are pretty to look at, always in a good mood, easy to train and friendly to everyone. In a word: Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are real “cavaliers”, from head to toe. So the Cavalier is not necessarily a dog for someone looking for a big challenge in their four-legged friend, but they are the first choice for people who are looking for a reliable and loving friend.
Need for employment and physical activity
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel may be small, but it is a real spaniel who loves to romp around and go for long walks. Although he is not a scent hound who has to cover several kilometers a day to be balanced, a life on the couch is not for him either. He is also very social, so he not only needs exercise but also needs to meet other dogs.
Upbringing
Actually no problem: A Cavalier likes to learn quickly and is happy when his people are happy with him. He is a nice and happy fellow who is not used to aggression or dominance. If he is overly spoiled by his owner, he will enjoy it but never take advantage of it. Because of his loving character, he is also suitable for first-time dog owners.
Maintenance
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s coat needs to be brushed regularly because otherwise it tends to become matted. The paws and ears in particular require careful work. Ears and eyes must also be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infections. The typical facial wrinkles must be cleaned with a special lotion if necessary. With moderate exercise, the claw care is added.
Disease Susceptibility / Common Diseases
Heart problems and eye diseases are isolated. Inbreeding is also a problem with this breed, so choosing a reputable breeder is important.
Did you know?
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the only dog allowed to enter all public buildings in Great Britain. King Charles I – who gave the breed its name – was so fond of his spaniels that he took them everywhere with him. So that they could also accompany him to parliament and state receptions, he passed a corresponding law that has not been repealed to this day.