Is a Cavalier a small or medium dog?

Bred purely as lapdogs, the Cavalier King Charles is smaller than most other spaniels and comes with a generally lower prey drive, relative to their other spaniel cousins. Instead, they are incredibly affable dogs who take a fast liking to strangers and family members, live well with other pets, and fit in comfortably with households of children or seniors.

There's no way around it—these teensy little spaniels are adorable. With their small stature—right about a foot tall and 15 or so pounds—their large eyes, and exceedingly friendly dispositions, it's practically impossible not to be charmed by a Cavalier King Charles.

The Cavalier King Charles comes in three basic colors: white with chestnut markings (the most common coloration, often referred to as "Blenheim"), black and tan, or solid ruby. A small number of Cavaliers come in a tricolor pattern as well: black and white with tan markings on the eyes, ears, and tail.

In the 1920s, dog breeders began having a revived interest in the "old style" Charles spaniels, and in 1926 an American breeder named Roswell Eldridge offered a cash prize of £25 to British breeders who could produce toy spaniels "seen in King Charles II's reign" with flatter heads, longer faces, and slightly larger size, according to the CKCSC. The prospect of prize money drove breeders to revive the old style and these dogs were dubbed Cavalier King Charles spaniels. The first Cavalier Club was formed in 1928, and the dogs steadily gained in popularity.

Project Description

This wide-eyed, soft, floppy-eared dog is affectionate, compliant and good with children and other pets. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has an even temperament, is eager to please, enjoys companionship and does not like a life where they are left alone or outside for hours. In fact, separation anxiety can cause unnatural barking or chewing habits.

These snuggly lap dogs have a strong prey drive and will chase small moving objects. They have a tendency toward shyness and fear-based aggression if not socialised from a young age. Outgoing, sporty and easy to train, many vets recommend them for families unfamiliar with dogs, or even for seniors.

Fun fact: This breed was common as a lady’s pet in the 16th century

and was used to warm laps during long carriage rides and

cold castles. Another job was to attract fleas away from their mistress.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels need a daily walk. Frequent games of Frisbee or fetch will also help exercise and socialise them. They don’t need big yards, just a patch with a fence to get their tail-a-wagging.

They do not do well in very warm conditions. The King Charles Spaniel has a long coat that sheds considerably. It needs bathing and a good brushing for 15 to 20 minutes each week. Make sure your King Charles is thoroughly dry and warm after a bath. By the end of winter, you may notice hair shedding onto the furnishings. Their drop ears are prone to tangling and matting and should be wiped clean regularly.

Scheduled six monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. Common health problems for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel include heart murmurs, cataracts and slipping knee caps. Together with your vet, you can determine a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.

Size

A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a toy-sized breed weighing between 5.5-8kgs, with a height between 30-33cms.

Space

Whether an apartment or house, your pet will adapt to any space.

Energy Levels

The equivalent of a gym-bunny: they love to play but also love to relax afterwards. This is one breed that doesn’t have boundless energy and a daily walk is sufficient.

Difficulty of Training

Not only are they easy to house-train, they are also easy to train generally and will perform tricks in no time at all.

Family Suitability

While not a great watchdog, they are great for all family pets and loyal companions.

Compatibility with otherpets

They love all other pets!

Need for Company

They prefer to have constant company and want to be around their family.

Hypoallergenic Dog Breed?

No 

Coat and Grooming Needs

They are of moderate-maintenance. Groom a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel by brushing weekly. They require little trimming. They have a medium=long coat, usually in black and tan, ruby, or red and white.

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