Dog Training and Dog Care advice from UK Professionals

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dog Breed Profile

Originating from toy spaniels immortalised by the great artists of the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries such as Van Dyck, Stubbs and Gainsborough, they were classified as a separate breed in the 1940’s. Bred to be companion dogs, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel would warm ladies laps as they travelled on long carriage journeys. It was also thought that the dog would attract fleas away from their mistresses so avoiding the ladies being bitten and dying of the plague. King Charles 11 decreed that these dogs should be allowed in any public place, a law that still remains in the statute books today.

Other Names: Cavs. Cavies. Blenheim Spaniel. Ruby Spaniel. CKCS.

K9Obedience Breed Profile

Origin: England

Breed Purpose: Companion

Kennel Club Dog Group: Toy

Height: Both, 30cm – 33cm

Weight: 5kg – 8kg

Lifespan: 10-15 years

Exercise Needs: Though this dog will adapt easily to the family’s routines the Cavalier King Charles does enjoy a good daily walk. However, they are not demanding dogs and will also be satisfied with a long play session in the garden.

Feeding Needs: No special nutritional requirements. Care should be taken that this dog does not over eat and become obese.

Common Ailments: Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are prone to a number of genetic defects and health issues ranging from a mild disorder of Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (dry eye) to Syringomyelia (fluid filled cavities develop within the spinal cord). They also suffer with Mitral Valve Disease (heart murmur) which is the leading cause of death in the breed. Other issues are Retinal Dysplasia (congenital eye defect) that can cause varying degrees of blindness and Luxation Patella (dislocated kneecaps). Potential owners should check the medical history of previous generations and should only purchase puppies from responsible breeders whose stock has been tested.

Physical Description: This cheerful little dog has large round eyes that are set wide apart and shine with a lusterous, soft expression. It has a conical muzzle, a flat skull and long ears that are covered with an abundance of silky hair. The neck is slightly arched going down to a short body with a level back. The length of the tail is in balance with the body. The coat is long and silky with plenty of feathering and the coat colours are: Black and tan…..(King Charles), Tricolour… (Prince Charles), Rich mahogany (Ruby) & Red and white (Blenheim).
The Blenheim dog has rich red/chestnut markings that should be evenly divided on the head leaving room between the ears for the much coveted lozenge mark or spot. This unique characteristic of the breed is also called the “Blenheim spot”, the “Kissing spot” or the “Kiss of Buddha".

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel K9 Obedience Breed Summary:

Largest of the toy breeds, the CKCS is affectionate, undemanding, eager to please and easy to train, especially with housetraining.

A wonderful happy and loyal little dog, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel will suit most families regardless of whether living in town or country, large house or small apartment. Once known as the “comforte dog” doctors once wrote prescriptions for sick people with these dogs as the remedy.

Who could resist those warm, limped eyes and the dog’s happy character? On the downside, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is so family orientated that they do not like to be left alone for long periods.

All in all, this little dog makes an exceptional family companion.