Affectionate, Gentle, Sociable, Eager to Please
12-13 inches (at the shoulder)
13-18 pounds
12-15 years
Moderate (regular brushing, occasional bathing)
Low to Moderate (approx. 45-60 minutes daily)
Children, Other Dogs, Other Pets, Strangers
Moderate (sheds more heavily seasonally)
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is truly the epitome of a loving companion. Known for their incredibly affectionate and gentle spirit, these dogs are perpetually eager to please their human families. Their sociable nature means they thrive on interaction, effortlessly forming strong bonds not just with adults but also with children and other household pets. It’s this innate friendliness that makes them one of the most beloved breeds for large families and those seeking a dog that gets along well with everyone, including strangers.
Cavaliers possess a playful energy, but it’s balanced by a calm demeanor that prevents them from being overly hyperactive. They are adaptable and happy to be wherever you are, whether it’s lounging on the couch or joining you for a gentle stroll. While they are not known for excessive barking, they are aware of their surroundings and may engage in “alert barking” to notify you of newcomers or unusual sounds. Their intelligence and strong desire to please make them highly trainable, often excelling in various dog sports and even becoming exceptional emotional support or therapy animals. This combination of sweetness, adaptability, and trainability ensures that a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel brings a deep sense of happiness and companionship to any home they grace.
Choosing a dog is a significant decision, and understanding if a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel truly fits your life is crucial for a harmonious relationship. This breed’s unique blend of traits makes them suitable for many, but not all, situations.
First-time dog owners, thanks to their eager-to-please nature and high trainability.
Families with children and other pets, as they are renowned for their amicable and gentle interactions.
Apartment dwellers, given their moderate activity levels and adaptability to smaller living spaces.
Individuals or families seeking a devoted and affectionate companion who thrives on human interaction.
You or family members have severe dog allergies, as they are not hypoallergenic and shed moderately.
You are frequently away from home for extended periods, as Cavaliers bond closely and can be prone to separation anxiety.
You are not prepared for consistent grooming to prevent mats and maintain their silky coat.
You live in an area with extreme temperatures, as they are sensitive to both very cold and very hot climates.
For an adult Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, whose weight typically ranges from 13 to 18 pounds, it is generally recommended to feed them about 1 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry dog food per day. This daily allowance should be split into two separate meals to aid digestion and prevent overeating. For puppies, who are still growing and developing rapidly, a higher intake of around 4-5 cups of high-quality dry dog food per day may be necessary, also divided into multiple smaller meals throughout the day. Always consult with your veterinarian to tailor a diet plan specific to your dog’s age, activity level, and individual health needs. Fresh water should always be available.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels fall into a low to moderate activity range. While they love to play and can be energetic during bursts, they also tire themselves out efficiently. Daily walks, combined with some dedicated playtime in a secure area, are typically sufficient to meet their exercise needs, often amounting to around 45 minutes to an hour per day. They adore spending time with their families, so they’re usually enthusiastic for more activity if you are up for it. Despite being known as companion breeds, their ancestry includes sporting dogs, and many Cavaliers excel in dog sports like rally, flyball, or agility. If considering agility training, ensure your puppy has finished growing and has been cleared by a vet. Remember, due to their moderate prey drive, it’s recommended to only let them off-leash in securely fenced areas.
Â
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel boasts a beautiful long, silky coat that can have a slight wave, appearing in four main colors: Ruby, Blenheim, Black and Tan, and Tricolor. While their shedding is moderate, it will increase during seasonal changes (spring and fall). To keep their coat healthy, tangle-free, and prevent mats, it requires brushing a few times a week. During periods of heavy seasonal shedding, daily brushing is highly recommended. Occasional bathing will help maintain their coat’s cleanliness and luster.
Beyond coat care, it’s essential to address their nails, ears, and teeth. Nails should be trimmed once or twice a month to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. Their ears, being floppy and prone to moisture retention, should be checked weekly for signs of infection, dirt, or wax buildup and cleaned carefully as needed. Daily tooth brushing is crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing dental disease, supplemented by professional cleanings at the vet when advised.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are often considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners due to their intelligence and profound eagerness to please. They typically pick up on commands and expectations quickly, striving to meet them. Their gentle nature means they respond best to consistent training methods that are focused on positive reinforcement, rewards, and praise. Because of their sensitive personalities, raised voices or negative feedback can be counterproductive, potentially damaging your bond and causing them to become withdrawn or sulky. Early and consistent socialization, exposing them to various sights, sounds, people, and other friendly animals, will ensure they grow into well-adjusted, confident, and amiable adults. Their innate desire to be near their humans, coupled with their intelligence, also makes them excellent candidates for therapy and emotional support roles.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are generally healthy dogs, often living between 12 to 15 years. However, like all breeds, they are predisposed to certain genetic health conditions that prospective owners should be aware of. Reputable breeders play a crucial role in mitigating these risks by conducting thorough health screenings on their breeding dogs.
When choosing a Cavalier puppy, it is paramount to ask the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents. The national breed club recommends a minimum of a patella evaluation, a hip evaluation, a cardiac exam, and an ophthalmologist evaluation for breeding dogs. Selecting a puppy from a breeder who can provide health clearances and openly discuss these potential issues is a testament to their commitment to healthy breeding practices and significantly increases the likelihood of a healthy companion.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel traces its origins back to the United Kingdom, where toy spaniels were highly favored by British aristocracy in the 19th century. This breed is often confused with the English Toy Spaniel, known as the King Charles Spaniel in the UK. While they share historical roots, they are distinct breeds; the Cavalier is slightly larger, with higher-set ears, a flatter skull, and a longer muzzle.
The name “Cavalier King Charles Spaniel” itself is a nod to English history, particularly King Charles I, who adored these spaniels. The “Cavalier” part refers to the Royalist party (Cavaliers) who supported the Stuarts during the English Civil War. During the 1920s, an American named Roswell Eldrige offered a cash prize to British breeders who could revive the “Old World Type” spaniel, which was depicted in classic English paintings and had almost gone extinct as the newer, flatter-faced English Toy Spaniel gained popularity. This initiative accelerated the preservation efforts, leading to the formal recognition of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel by the AKC as a toy dog in 1945, and later, full recognition as a member of the Toy Group in 1995. Today, these delightful dogs remain one of the most popular companion breeds globally.
Ready to welcome a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel into your life? Our available puppies are raised with love and care, ready to bring joy and affection to their new homes. Browse our current litter and find your perfect furry family member.
PuppyGuyz is proud to offer nationwide home delivery, but if you’re looking for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy closer to your location, here are some major states where our ethical breeders are located:
Looking for a King Charles Spaniel puppy in your area? We deliver healthy, well-socialized puppies to families across the United States. Explore our available puppies by state to find the perfect addition to your family:
We’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions about Cavalier King Charles Spaniels to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, often referred to as the “Cavalier,” is a small, affectionate toy dog breed originating from the United Kingdom. They are known for their gentle nature, luxurious silky coats, and friendly disposition, making them ideal companions.
Absolutely! Cavaliers are renowned for their sweet and adaptable temperament, making them excellent family dogs. They typically get along very well with children of all ages, other dogs, and even cats, thriving in environments where they receive plenty of love and attention.
Cavaliers are small dogs with soft, expressive eyes, a rounded head, and medium-length floppy ears. They have a long, silky coat that can be slightly wavy and comes in four distinct colors: Blenheim (chestnut and white), Tricolor (black, white, and tan), Black and Tan, and Ruby (solid red). They typically stand 12-13 inches tall and weigh 13-18 pounds.
The average lifespan of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is typically between 12 to 15 years, though some sources may state a range of 9 to 14 years. Proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups can contribute to a longer, healthier life.
Yes, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are considered moderate shedders. They will shed consistently throughout the year, with more significant shedding periods occurring during the fall and spring months. Regular grooming can help manage the loose hair.
edding and the dander they release can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.
alier King Charles Spaniels typically grow to a height of 12 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder. They are a small breed that fits comfortably in most living situations.
Fully grown Cavalier King Charles Spaniels generally weigh between 13 to 18 pounds. This makes them a sturdy yet portable companion.
n general, Cavaliers are not excessive barkers. They usually bark only when there’s a specific reason, such as to alert their owners to visitors or to express loneliness, anxiety, or excitement. Consistent training can help manage any nuisance barking.
Yes, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are quite intelligent dogs. While they might rank as average (around #73) on some “smartest dog breeds” lists, they are eager to please and highly trainable, making them quick learners of new tricks and commands. Their intelligence often surprises owners.
There are varying reports on whether the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a double or single coat. Some sources suggest they have a single coat due to their moderate shedding, while others argue for a double coat, consisting of an undercoat and a top or outer coat. The consensus remains somewhat unclear, but their grooming needs reflect a dense, protective coat.