Description: The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is considered a toy dog. This dog is 13 to 18 inches at the withers and weighs between 10 and 18 pounds. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a long, silky coat with feathers on the legs, tail, and ears. The coat comes in four colors: Blenheim, ruby, tricolor, and black and tan. Although the Cavalier’s tail is usually left at its natural length, it is sometimes cut by a third. This dog can have a lifespan of 9 to 14 years. It is also called Ruby Spaniel or Blenheim Spaniel.
History: King Charles II of England is most closely associated with the Spaniel that bears his name. Even when he was a child, he was surrounded by this breed of dog. After attaining the throne, he promoted the breed and allowed the little dogs to take over the palace. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is said to have even given birth in the royal bed. This little dog is present in art from the 16th to 18th centuries and was used to help attract fleas as well as for its functions as a comforting dog. Crossing with the Pug produced a shorter-faced dog, the King Charles Spaniel. However, an American fancier, Roswell Eldridge, recrossed the breed with the more original dog and recreated the Cavalier.
Temperament: The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is exclusively a companion dog, despite his old Spaniel hunting instincts. He is a very loving and happy little dog who thrives when his human friends pay attention to him. This is a very playful dog who wants to please those around him. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel makes an excellent companion for anyone and is trustworthy and gentle with children. He loves to cuddle and jumps hard at his family.
Health Issues – Although the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a fairly healthy toy breed, it can suffer from a variety of hereditary health issues. One of the most serious problems is mitral valve heart disease, which begins as a heart murmur and can worsen over time. Another serious condition is syringomyelia, in which cysts form in the spine. This can be a painful condition for the dog. The potential owner of this attractive little dog is advised to ensure that they purchase the dog from a reputable breeder who has followed intelligent breeding practices.
Grooming: Since the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has such a long coat, it is important to keep it well groomed. The dog should be brushed daily to prevent matting and the fur on the paws should be kept trimmed, especially around the toes and paw pads. Long ears should be checked regularly and kept clean and dry to prevent infection. Also pay attention to the eyes to make sure they remain infection-free.
Living conditions: The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a domestic dog. He cannot live in an external situation, neither physically nor mentally. This little dog needs to be around people as much as possible. The dog will match his exercise needs to his owner’s, making him suitable for both active and inactive lifestyles. However, regardless of the owner’s exercise needs, the dog needs a walk every day. He is very suitable for living in an apartment.
