The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is taken from spaniel roots, as its name implies. The European toy dogs were possibly the result of breeding small spaniels to Oriental toy breeds such as the Japanese Chin and possibly the Tibetan Spaniel. These Tudor lapdogs, called “comforter spaniels,” served as lap and foot warmers or surrogate hot water bottles. In addition, they served the vital characteristic of attracting fleas from their owners’ bodies! The toy spaniels have become particularly famous because they appeal to all family individuals. In the 1700s, King Charles II was so enamored with his toy spaniels that he was accused of ignoring matters of the country in prefer of his puppies. The puppies were so closely related to him that they were called King Charles Spaniels. After his demise, the Duke of Marlborough took over as the leading advocate of the breed; the red and white “Blenheim” color, which was his favorite, is named after his estate. King Charles Spaniel continued to grace the homes of the rich for generations; however, with time, he preferred a shorter-nosed dog. By the early 1900s, the few puppies that resembled the early members of the breed had been considered inferior. A twist of fate occurred when a rich American, Roswell Eldridge, came to England and offered outlandish prize cash for the best “pointed-nosed” spaniels, most similar to the old kind. Breeders bred their old-kind puppies collectively to benefit from the prize, and in so doing, many came to appreciate the old type. Ironically, those puppies, named Cavalier King Charles Spaniels in honor of the Cavalier King, eventually outstripped their short-nosed counterparts in reputation, turning into one of the most famous breeds in England. They had been slower to catch on in America, and lots of Cavalier owners fought AKC popularity to manage the issues that so frequently accompany popularity. In 1996, the AKC identified the Cavalier. Its popularity continues to grow.

Temperement

The Cavalier, in lots of ways, suits the bill as a perfect house pet. He is gentle, sweet, playful, willing to please, affectionate, and quiet. He similarly enjoys sharing time on the sofa or on a walk. He neither digs nor barks excessively. He is amiable toward different dogs, pets, and strangers. Outdoors, his spaniel heritage kicks in, and he likes to explore, chase and sniff.

Upkeep

The Cavalier requires a fair amount of exercise daily, a moderate walk on a leash or a romp in a safe area. His long coat requires brushing every alternate day.

Health

“Major diagnosis: mitral valve insufficiency, CHD, syringomelia
Minor concerns: patellar luxation, entropion
Occasionally seen: retinal dysplasia
Suggested tests: cardiac, hip, knee, eye
Life span: 9–14 years”

Disclaimer

Note: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet.