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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dogs
Breed Rating (4 Reviews)
| Appearance | |
| Friendliness | |
| Hardiness | |
| Garden |
History
Cavalier Spaniels we first bred in Tudor times and were used as ladies' lap dogs and feet warmers! They were often used as a kind of mobile hot water bottle, too. In the 1660s, King Charles II of England took so much interest in the breed that they became known as King Charles Spaniels. Lots of breeding took place over the next 200 years, creating a dog with a flat face and short nose. In the early 1900s breeding programs set out to revert the breed type back to the more pointed nose that the breed has today. They are still one of the most popular breeds in England.
Behaviour
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (CKCS) is an affectionate, devoted, gentle lap dog that loves company. They are playful and energetic, but are also very happy cuddling up on the sofa and will always want to sleep on your bed. Being so placid, they are often used as therapy dogs and are good with children of all ages. They don't cope well if left alone for too long as they crave company, but in spote of that they aren't the sort of dog that is under your feet all the time.
WIth training, CKCSs learn quite quickly, but they always want to break off to mess around and lie on their backs for a tummy rub. This endearing quality is typical of the breed. They have always seem to know when you're feeling low, and will come to cheer you up. They enjoy walks and are happy when out exploring new smells and chasing anything that moves. They won't always come back if something sparks their interest, so recall can be a problem. Like most spaniels, they can be greedy, but this trait should help with treat-based training. A healthy breed, but owners should beware over-feeding and obesity, to which they are prone. Their long fur will get matted if not groomed regularly - but this is not a problem with Cavaliers as they love the attention. They will need a trim twice a year.
Temperament
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are affectionate and gentle. They will not make an enemy of anyone and will fit into a household with other pets or small children easily. Very gentle in nature, they love a good walk in the country as much as a cuddle on the sofa.
It is important to socialize CKCSs early to prevent timidity. They will not be happy if you leave them alone for too long, as they crave companionship.
Health Problems
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are prone to mitral valve disease (a heart condition that most of them will suffer from as they age), canine hip dysplasia (CHD), luxating patella (dislocation of knee cap), syringomyelia (brain and spine condition that can cause paralysis), and various eye and ear problems.
Breed Details
- Status: Common
- Life Expectancy: 9 - 14 years
- Weight: 12 - 18 lb
- Height: 12 - 13"
- Rare: No
- Coat: Medium
- Grooming Requirements: More than once per week
- Town or Country: Either
- Minimum Home Size: Flat
- Minimum Garden Size: Small to Medium Garden
- Breed Type: Toy Dog
- Size: Small
- Energy Level: Medium
- Exercise Required: Up to 1 hour
More to love
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Pictures
Latest Reviews For Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (4 of 4)
a lite of sunshine - Jennifer,
my baby is so good loves our bed(takes it over ha) loves walks never comes back when out walking but after a while she does she will walk miles ahead of u but if she don’t see you she rite back at your side i had a death with a dear friend and was very sad and boy did my baby stay by my side for ages she loves to play but eats any toy she been given had her first grooming today was very quite after it but came around hats been alone but my grandsons love the bones of her as she does them a great joy to our family it’s what we all needed they give you a lot of TLC as well as getting it
Blessed to have been Barons mama - Linda,
Baron was vibrant and loving good natured he was a wonderful therapy dog as well as service to me He was AKC and CKC registered. He lived 13 years and had cardiomyopathy last 4years. He loved his grooming times.
- Anne,
Very gentle, intelligent breed. Trains very easily to most anything. Loves people. Won't chew your furniture, shoes etc. Must have toys; mine prefers soft toys like stuffed type. Wonderful companion. Sheds a bit but who doesn't.
I love this breed - Daisy,
I love this breed and think they are amazing. They are very good with children and make a great pet.