Why are King Charles spaniels called that?

Introduction: Origin of King Charles Spaniels

King Charles Spaniels, also known as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, are a small breed of toy spaniels that originate from Britain. Their history can be traced back to the 16th century, where they were bred as lapdogs for royalty and aristocrats. The breed’s name is derived from King Charles II, who was known for his love of these dogs.

The Reign of King Charles and His Dogs

King Charles II was a devoted dog lover, and he was often seen in the company of his spaniels. He even allowed them to accompany him to court and to sit on his lap during meetings. It is said that he was so fond of his dogs that he would often ignore important state affairs in favor of spending time with them.

The Royal Connection: King Charles II’s Favourite Breed

King Charles II’s favorite breed of spaniel was the English toy spaniel, which was also known as the King Charles Spaniel. These dogs were small and affectionate, making them perfect lapdogs for the King. He was so taken with the breed that he even issued a decree that allowed them to be present in any public place, including Parliament.

The Transformation from Toy Spaniel to King Charles Spaniel

The English toy spaniel began to change in appearance during the 19th century. Breeders began to focus on developing a smaller, flatter-faced dog with a rounder head. The result was the breed we know today as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This new breed was named after King Charles II, who was known for his love of the English toy spaniel.

Characteristics of King Charles Spaniels

King Charles Spaniels are small, friendly dogs that are known for their affectionate nature. They have a silky coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black and tan, tri-color, ruby, and blenheim. They are also recognized for their large, dark eyes and floppy ears.

The Different Colours of King Charles Spaniels

King Charles Spaniels come in four different colors: black and tan, tri-color, ruby, and blenheim. Blenheim is the most popular color and is characterized by a white coat with chestnut markings. Tri-color dogs have a black coat with tan markings and white markings on the face and chest. Ruby dogs have a solid red coat, while black and tan dogs have a black coat with tan markings on the face and legs.

Popularity and Decline of the Breed

King Charles Spaniels were a popular breed during the 18th and 19th centuries, but their popularity began to decline during the early 20th century. This was due in part to the popularity of other small breeds, such as the Pekingese and the Chihuahua. The breed was also affected by health issues, which led to a decline in their numbers.

Revival of King Charles Spaniels in the 20th Century

The breed was revived during the 1920s and 1930s, thanks to the efforts of breeders such as Roswell Eldridge. Eldridge offered a cash prize to anyone who could produce a dog that looked like the original King Charles Spaniel. This led to the development of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, which is now recognized as a separate breed.

The Role of Kennel Clubs in Standardizing the Breed

The breed was standardized by the Kennel Club in 1945, and the first official breed standard was published in 1948. This helped to establish the breed’s characteristics and ensure that they were consistent across all breeding lines. The breed was later recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1995.

Controversies Surrounding the Breed’s Health Issues

King Charles Spaniels are prone to a number of health issues, including heart problems, eye problems, and neurological disorders. Breeders have been criticized for prioritizing physical appearance over health, which has led to an increase in these health issues. Some breeders are now working to promote healthier breeding practices.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of King Charles Spaniels

King Charles Spaniels have a rich history that is intimately tied to the British monarchy. Their popularity may have waxed and waned over the years, but their affectionate nature and distinctive appearance have helped them to endure. As the breed continues to evolve, breeders and enthusiasts will no doubt continue to celebrate its unique legacy.

References and Further Reading

• “Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.” American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/cavalier-king-charles-spaniel/
• “Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.” The Kennel Club. https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/search/breeds-a-to-z/breeds/cavalier-king-charles-spaniel/
• “History of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.” Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club USA. https://www.ckcsc.org/ckcsc/ckcsc_inc.nsf/Founded-1954/history
• “King Charles Spaniel.” The Kennel Club. https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/search/breeds-a-to-z/breeds/king-charles-spaniel/