09/17/2025
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is being highlighted for this week’s “Getting to Know Your Breed” segment! Show off those fur babies in the comments below!
Two of Europe’s 17th-century British monarchs, King Charles I and his son Charles II, were devoted to a black and tan variety of toy spaniel, a breed that was eventually named in the latter's honor. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is notable for its four distinct color patterns, each of which was associated with a particular noble family: Blenheim (chestnut markings on a white background), Tricolor (black markings on a white background), Black and Tan (black with tan markings), and Ruby (a rich red) color.
Cavaliers combine the gentle attentiveness of a toy breed with the enthusiastic athleticism of a sporting spaniel, giving owners the best of both worlds. The sweet, gentle expression emanating from large, round eyes is a breed hallmark. Another is the silky, richly colored coat that can be one of the previously mentioned four distinct varieties. The Cavalier's lustrous, silky coat requires little more than regular brushing and an occasional bath to keep him in beautiful condition. Brushing not only helps to keep the coat shiny and tangle-free.
There are several health issues to which Cavaliers are prone. These include certain eye conditions including retinal problems and cataracts, patella luxation, hip dysplasia, middle ear infections, mitral valve heart disease, and a neurological condition called syringomyelia. Cavaliers can be screened by responsible breeders for all these conditions, and most live comfortably into old age. Typical of spaniels, a Cavaliers ears should be checked weekly for signs of infection, and the nails should be trimmed at least once a month, as overgrown nails can cause pain and structural problems. Some Cavaliers are prone to getting overweight, so calorie consumption and weight level should be closely monitored and treats given in moderation.
Although the Cavalier was bred to be a beloved lap dog, they are descended from sporting dogs and do enjoy moderate exercise and outdoor activities. They will happily go on walks with his owner and also perform well in a number of canine sports, but are also just as glad to stay on the sofa all day. Cavaliers can retain scenting and hunting instincts and may not come when called if they've found an interesting trail to follow or a creature to pursue. For this reason, a fenced yard and leashed walks are recommended.
A sweet, gentle, and affectionate breed, Cavaliers are often eager to please their human. They are friendly with strangers and with other animals, and they can do very well with children. They are smart and train easily.
With their sweet nature they also make fantastic therapy dogs. As with all breeds, early socialization and puppy training classes will help the young Cavalier to learn good manners and be comfortable with a wide variety of people and situations.
