Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Complete Breed Guide

Don't let their regal history or flowing coat fool you, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are as friendly and loving as they come. This cheerful toy breed is surprisingly uncomplicated and happiest curled up indoors with the people they adore.

True to their regal history, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are distinct among commoners, or should we simply say other spaniels, because of their long, feathered tail which is proudly carried high and waves festively whenever they run. But don’t be fooled by their fancy facade, these toy-sized pups are as cuddly and loving as they come. Friendly toward children and other household pets, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's exercise needs are fairly minimal. A casual walk and indoor play will do.

Lifestyle & Living Conditions

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels get along great with children (although older children are preferable), other dogs, and any household pets. They are friendly, happy, and loving. Yet, while fiercely devoted to loved ones, they can be suspicious around strangers.

Exercise & Activity

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are pretty basic. They love walks (leashed or watched closely around roads as they tend to give chase to small animals) but are quite content with plenty of indoor play, easily adjusting to the activity level of your family. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a good fit for apartment life or a home in the country.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel loves to be with their family and craves attention. They are cheerful, playful, and intelligent—an ideal dog to carry with you and share your time with. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels do not bark frequently. They are generally well-behaved but can sometimes be timid or stubborn.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has long, soft, silky hair with a light wave to it. There are four color types which were formerly considered separate breeds: tricolor (‘Prince Charles’), red and white (‘Blenheim’), black and tan (‘King Charles’), and red (‘Ruby’). The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an average shedder, and they don’t need to be bathed often if you keep them as indoor dogs, which they prefer, but frequent brushing is a good idea.

Mitral valve disease, syringomyelia, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, eye conditions (cataracts, retinal dysplasia).

Medical References