The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a toy spaniel with a friendly and affectionate temperament.
They are a small breed that is ideal for pet parents who want a spaniel’s warm and fun-loving personality but with less exercise.
While a King Charles Spaniel requires frequent walks and enjoys playing, it does not require as much physical activity as other members of the spaniel family, such as the English Springer Spaniel or the Cocker Spaniel.
If you’re just discovering the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, our breed profile will provide an excellent introduction to its history, temperament and different ways this breed charms everyone. Read on to learn:
What Makes the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel So Appealing?
It’s simple, they’re just adorable, loving, and always ready to make you smile. Cavaliers have big, sweet eyes that melt your heart and a gentle nature that makes them easy to love.
They’re happy to cuddle with you on the couch but just as excited to go for a walk or meet new people.
They get along with kids, other pets, and even strangers.
1. Cuteness
Cavaliers are the most adorable dogs ever. If you take him out, half of the people will make comments or ask to pet him.
Some may also request to take a selfie with him. He is not a celebrity, but he is a cute dog, the most adorable breed ever.
2. You Want to Get Some Exercise
Don’t assume that because they’re small, Cavaliers don’t enjoy a good long walk. In terms of exercise, these little dogs will outwork you.
Cavaliers are more athletic than you’d expect for a small dog. Cavalier owners frequently describe their dogs as “big dogs in small bodies.”
3. You Want a Smaller Dog
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels do not typically grow into large dogs. They are the largest of the toy breeds, weighing an average of 13-18 pounds; however, many grow fat and can weigh up to 25 pounds, which is unlikely.
They stand about 12-13 inches at the shoulder and are an ideal size!
4. You Didn’t Have Children but Wanted To
Cavaliers are like little toddlers and make ideal “kids” for people who have always wanted children but have been unable to have them for some reasons.
They require a lot of love and attention, even if it is just a glance across the room or a bit of conversation.
And don’t even consider holding back on the cuddles.
5. You Did Have Children, and They Need a Playmate
Some people believe Cavaliers should not be kept in homes with small children because they are afraid the dog will become aggressive or be harmed.
Cavaliers are small and have lovely, enticing ears, so it’s understandable to be concerned.
To ensure everyone’s safety, young children should never be left alone with any dog breed.
6. You Love Puppy Kisses
Cavaliers enjoy giving kisses. And they are, without a doubt, the best kisses ever from the most loving dogs.
If you do not want to be licked, you should probably avoid getting a Cavalier. You will simply break his heart.
7. You Want a Dog You Can Take Everywhere
The majority of Cavaliers enjoy socializing. They are the ideal size and temperament for traveling.
They can sometimes go places that dogs cannot, because, after all, they are the cutest dogs in the world, and people tolerate it.
8. Yes, They’re Lapdogs, but They’re Also Sporting Dogs
Cavs retain their natural hunting instincts and can take off like a shot after small animals or if they smell something.
They may be so focused on the chase that even a well-trained dog does not respond when called.
It is best to keep them on a leash and to have a fenced yard at home.
9. They’re Named for Royalty
Both King Charles I and his son, Charles II were devotees of the breed. Charles II was so attached to his spaniels that they accompanied him everywhere.
He issued a royal decree that allowed dogs to roam in all public spaces, including Parliament. The breed was even named after the monarch.
10. Cavs Are Toy-Sized Bundles of Love
They are one of the most friendly breeds, showing affection for their family and getting along with other dogs, children, cats, and strangers.
Strangers are friends whom they have not yet met.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Breed Maintenance
Cavaliers are relatively low-maintenance dogs in terms of grooming, but they will benefit from a good brushing a couple of times per week to prevent mats and tangles and to keep that glossy coat looking its best.
They are average shedders. As with all breeds, check ears regularly for signs of dirt or debris that could lead to an ear infection.
Those long, furry ears can trap moisture, putting them at risk of bacterial infection or becoming smelly.
In that regard, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, like many other dogs, may emit odors on occasion.
What to Feed Your Best Friend Forever
With so many different types of dog food available, such as dry, wet, fresh, and raw, it can be difficult to know what to feed a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Make sure you’re feeding your dog a recipe that is appropriate for his age and breed size.
Do not feed adult food to Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies, and vice versa.
Remember, a small breed does not require as much food as a large breed, and it is at risk of becoming overweight.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Temperament
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a gentle, curious, and playful breed that enjoys exploring and roaming.
They can get along with other dogs if they are properly socialized.
To help with this process, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies should be socialized with other puppies as soon as possible.
Cavaliers are great companion dogs who enjoy cuddling, making them ideal candidates for therapy work.
Although they appear to prefer to relax with their pet parents, they are also active and sporting dogs who enjoy chasing things.
They can live well in cities or in the countryside, but the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel thrives on human companionship and should not be left alone for a long time.
This breed has moderate intelligence and responds well to gentle training. Furthermore, they are extremely friendly, so socializing is not a big headache.
Conclusion
This gentle, affectionate breed captured the hearts of the royals as early as the 17th century.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are popular pets because they combine the affectionate qualities of a companion dog with their ancestors.
Since its debut as the AKC’s 140th recognized breed in 1995, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has consistently ranked among the top 20 dog breeds.
The breed’s popularity is attributed to its versatility, which makes it ideal for owners.
