Dog breed · Toy
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
An exceptionally sweet-natured lap spaniel that suits many households, but with two serious inherited conditions that must guide breeder choice.
Small9–14 yearsUnited KingdomCan suit apartments
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Toy
- Origin
- United Kingdom
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 5.5–8 kg (12–18 lb)
- Height
- 30–33 cm
- Lifespan
- 9–14 years
- Coat
- Silky, medium length with feathering
- Temperament
- GentleAffectionateAdaptableEager
History
Recreated in the 1920s to resemble the toy spaniels seen in seventeenth-century court portraits.
Appearance
Rounded head, large dark eyes and a feathered coat in Blenheim, tricolour, black-and-tan or ruby.
Exercise and activity
Around an hour daily split into walks and play.
Care and grooming
Brush several times weekly, clean ears regularly and keep annual cardiac checks in the calendar.
Health considerations
- Mitral valve disease
- Syringomyelia
- Hip dysplasia
- Patellar luxation
- Ear infections