Physical Characteristics

Breed Group:

Toy

Weight:

Small even for a Spaniel, full-grown Cavaliers reach only about 10 to 18 pounds (4.5 – 8.5 kg).

Height:

Cavaliers are on average 12 to 13 inches tall (29 – 33 cm).

Color(s):

Four color patterns are officially recognized for this breed:
Blenheim (chestnut on white background), Tricolor (black and white, with tan markings on face), Black-and-tan, and Ruby (red all over)

Coat:

This breed is known for their thick, silky coat. While the coat itself is of moderate length, adult Cavaliers develop long featherings on their ears, chests, legs, feet, and tails. Daily brushing is a must to ensure that the coat does not become matted.

Overview

Character:

The friendly, affectionate Cavalier has been described as “the ultimate lap dog.” They are playful in nature, and crave for their owners’ attention, which make them wonderful companion dogs. Cavaliers are especially favored by seniors, since they are relatively low-maintenance and put out lots of love. Their extremely sociable personality means they will greet strangers and other dogs with little reserve. The extrovert of the Spaniel family, the Cavalier has been cherished for their lively companionship for centuries.

Country of Origin:

United Kingdom

History:

The Toy Spaniel group was first developed in the United Kingdom back in the 11th century, because it was illegal to hunt with dogs that could not fit through an 11-inch wide gauge. Over time, these tiny, boisterous dogs gradually became favored as pets in the royal family.

Name:

The original “King Charles” spaniel was, predictably, from the household of Charles I. These spaniels were later crossed with dogs of Asian descent, and their original trait of long snouts and flatter heads became lost in time. In the 1920s these “old-fashioned” traits were re-developed, and the resulted dog breed was named “Cavalier King Charles” to represent its relationship with the beloved royal pets.

Temperament:

Cavaliers are outgoing and very social, and do exceptionally well in the company of children and other pets. They do have a tendency to chase down things that have caught their attention, so they should be kept in a fenced yard or on leash during walks.

Care

Training:

This intelligent breed is easy to train, as they are always eager to please, and thrive on their owners’ attention. Their friendly nature makes them quick to socialize with other dogs, and they will happily approach much larger dogs assuming that they are just as friendly; therefore a leash is a must when taking Cavaliers out for a walk!

Activity:

Cavaliers need a moderate amount of exercise. Running about in a yard plus moderate daily walks are sufficient for this small and active breed. They are prone to heart disease, and adequate exercise can help ensure their health in old age.

Ownership:

These small, joyful dogs are excellent companions, as they want nothing more than to love and be loved. They should not be left alone for long periods of time, since they require attention and companionship to thrive; therefore, they should not be kept outdoors. They can have a number of serious genetic disorders, including mitral valve disease and syringomyelia (a brain and spinal disorder), so it is important to consult with the breeders when considering a puppy.

Breeders

No breeders listed at this time.

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