Quick facts about this breed

Size

Small

Weight

6-8 kg

Lifespan

10-14 years

Energy Level

Medium

Family Fit

Loves all ages

Shedding

Moderate

About Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was developed in the United Kingdom during the 20th century to recreate the toy spaniels depicted in paintings by Van Dyck and other 17th-century masters. These dogs were bred to be gentle, friendly companions, distinct from the King Charles Spaniel which had developed a more pushed-in face.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small dogs with silky, medium-length coats in four recognised colour patterns: Blenheim, tricolour, black and tan, and ruby. They're known for their sweet, gentle expressions and eager-to-please temperaments.

These dogs are affectionate, friendly, and make excellent family pets. They're generally good with children and other pets, adapting well to various living situations. They require moderate exercise and are generally content with daily walks and playtime. While generally healthy, potential concerns include heart conditions, episodic falling, and certain eye problems. Early socialisation helps ensure they're well-adjusted, confident adults.

Complete Care Guide for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Expert advice on keeping your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.

Providing optimal nutrition for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel requires careful attention to both quantity and quality of food. These gentle companions need a well-balanced diet that supports their overall health and vitality throughout different life stages. A properly formulated meal plan should include appropriate proportions of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

Portion control plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy weight, as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a tendency to gain excess weight. Owners should measure meals carefully and adjust serving sizes based on their dog's age, size, and activity level. A puppy requires more frequent, energy-dense meals to support growth, while adult dogs need consistent portions to maintain a healthy weight. Senior Cavaliers often benefit from reduced calories but enhanced nutrient profiles to support aging joints and organs.

High-quality ingredients contribute significantly to a Cavalier's wellbeing, directly impacting coat lustre, bone strength, dental health, and energy levels. Fresh, minimally processed foods often provide superior nutritional value compared to heavily processed options. Regular monitoring of your dog's body condition, energy levels, and overall health can help determine if dietary adjustments are necessary. Working with a veterinarian to establish appropriate feeding guidelines ensures your Cavalier receives optimal nutrition throughout their life.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about Cavalier King Charles Spaniels from our community of pet parents

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their affectionate, gentle, and patient temperament. They are extremely sociable dogs that thrive on human companionship, making them excellent family pets. They are also known to get along well with other pets and are generally friendly towards strangers. Despite their gentle nature, they can also be quite playful and energetic.