The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small breed of dog usually considered one of the toy dog breeds.
History: The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is descended from the King Charles Spaniel and other small toy Spaniels seen in the works of 16th, 17th and 18th century painters such as Van Dyck, Titian, Stubbs and Gainsborough. The royal name, ‘King Charles Spaniel’ was bestowed during the reign of King Charles II, who was so fond of his spaniels he could not be parted from them.
Appearance: The Cavalier is by most measures the largest toy breed. The breed naturally grows a substantial silky coat of moderate length. The breed has four recognized colors: blenheim (rich chestnut on pearly white background); tricolor (black and white with tan markings on cheeks, inside ears, resembling eyebrows, inside legs, and on underside of tail); black and tan (black with tan markings); ruby (rich reddish-brown all over). Soulful eyes should be round and dark, widely spaced and not bulging. There should be a slight cushion under the eye, adding to their beguiling look. Well feathered ears should be high set and fairly long. The neck is relatively long for the size of the dog and leads into shoulders that are not too straight. The muzzle is tapered but not pointed and the lips should not be pendulous.
Size: Height – 12-13 inches (30-33 cm)
Weight – 10-18 pounds (5-8 kg)
Temperament: The breed is highly affectionate, and some have called the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel ‘the ultimate lap dog’. Gentle and affectionate with a happy, sporting and fearless nature, the Cavalier is known as a wonderful companion. Indeed the breed was known as the “Comforter” or the “Spaniel Gentle” in the early days of its history. This breed sometimes displays a chasing instinct and should be kept well enclosed or leashed so he does not get lost or run over by a car. It has a noteworthy sense of smell and vision and can be used in short hunts in open country.
Health: The breed suffers from a number of severe genetic defects. Virtually all Cavaliers suffer from mitral valve disease, causing progressively worsening heart murmurs leading to heart failure. Hip dysplasia is a common genetic disease in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. When selecting one of these dogs, it is extremely important to check the medical history of several previous generations.
Life expectancy: 9 to 14 years.
Grooming: Cavaliers should be groomed thoroughly once a week. The nails and the hair between the pads of the feet should be trimmed once a month. Special attention must be given to the ears are they are drop ears and there is very little air circulation. Always make sure the dog is thoroughly dry and warm after a bath.
Puppy price: $600.00 -$2000.00