Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are sporting, affectionate and absolutely fearless.
About the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Their cheerful, friendly nature, lacking any aggression, has made these dogs very popular since the end of the last millennium.
Active, gracious and well balanced, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a particularly gentle expression, with big dark eyes that exude intelligent curiosity.
Source: key facts and characteristics sourced from Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)
Breed specifics
- Group
- FCI Group 9, AKC Toy Group
- Size category
- Small
- Avg life expectancy
- 10–14 years
Lively / Loving / Confident / Friendly / Even-tempered
Key facts
Origins of the breed
The breed wasn’t officially recognised in the U.K. until 1945. Prior to that it was considered to be the same as an English Toy Spaniel, known as the King Charles Spaniel by The Kennel Club.
An American Toy Spaniel enthusiast named Roswell Eldridge was responsible for the emergence of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. He offered a substantial amount of money to anyone who could produce an old-fashioned type as depicted in 16th, 17th and 18th century paintings. That duly happened and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club was established in 1928.
Health condition
Cavalier King Charles dogs belong to the brachycephalic family that have as physical features a flat face and short nose due to their flat and wide skull shape. These anatomical attributes can cause some health issues like skin, eye and breathing problems as well as a poor ability to tolerate heat. For all brachycephalic breeds, we advise you to choose a dog with physical features that are not over-exaggerated, to buy from a responsible breeder and to seek counsels from your veterinarian.
A healthy start to life
Puppyhood is a time of massive physical and behavioural change, and a steep learning curve for new owners. Find out how you can provide your puppy with the best start to life so they develop into strong, healthy dogs.
Learn more
Lifetime of health
Get advice and information on how to provide the best care for your dog at every stage of life.
Learn more