The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has quite a posh history. This quintessential lapdog has warmed some of the noblest laps in Europe, including Charles II, the 17th century British king who gave the breed their name.
You'd think after four centuries of lap-warming, the Cavalier King Charles would be over it, but she's not. If you sits, she fits right up on that sweet square foot of lap. This breed is loving, kind, gentle, and sweet. They have a friendly, calm, and affectionate temperament. If you're searching for a constant canine companion, this pup could be your knight in shining...fur?
Originally from England, this small-sized and medium-energy breed can grow to between 13-18 pounds and lives an average of 9-14 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Toy group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Companion |
| Origin | England |
| Breed group | Toy |
| Average lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Size | Small |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 35 |
| Family | Spaniel, companion |
| Date of origin | 1600s |
| Original function | Flushing small birds, lapdog |
| Today's function | Companion |
| Average size of male | Height: 12-13 Weight: 13-18 |
| Average size of female | Height: 12-13 Weight: 13-18 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | High energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Very playful |
| Affection level | Very affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Friendly |
| Ease of training | Hard to train |
| Watchdog ability | Medium |
| Protection ability | Very protective |
| Grooming needs | Moderate maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Low tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel loves people and wants nothing more than to spend time with you. These fearless furry friends are considered among the best breeds for families. These dogs are great with many different kinds of families and wonderful with kids (though somewhat delicate, so will do best with supervised children).
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is cheerful and very playful, happy to meet strangers and friendly with other dogs and pets. They make for calm and very affectionate housedogs.
WHAT IS CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL BEHAVIOR LIKE?
The playful Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a good dog park citizen, but will probably feel most comfortable on the small dog side of the park. They don't need exhaustive exercise, but plan for daily walks and rompy games in the backyard. Cavaliers often like to retrieve and swim, but remember that not all dogs can do so naturally (bring a doggy lifejacket, just in case).
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL?
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are eager to please and usually very easy to train. They respond well to food rewards. Obedience training will also help keep their minds active.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIELS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have medium-length silky coats. Their hair is feathered and slightly wavy.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are average, seasonal shedders. Plan for daily brushing and regular grooming, especially to prevent mats and tangles on those fancy feathered ears and luxurious coats. Bathe as needed, but be sure not to get water in the ear canal to avoid issues.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIELS HAVE?
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels can develop a number of illnesses. Some are prone to eye or heart disease, cancer, or orthopedic problems. Cavaliers can also tend toward obesity, so count those calories.
