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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Appealing and attractive small dogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are among the most popular toy dogs.  They were admitted to the AKC's Toy group as a separate breed in 1996.  One appalling consequence of their popularity, however, is that inbreeding has increased their tendency toward fatal heart conditions.  Cavaliers enjoy a long walk and run, and they are quite athletic, despite their size.

Breed Category

Toy

Temperament

Their cheerful characters make them ideal companion dogs.  They are friendly toward other dogs and pets and very affectionate toward people.

Appearance

An elegant spaniel, slightly longer than it is tall, this breed combines many of the qualities of a toy and gundog.  It retains the build of the working spaniel, but everything is smaller.  The silky coat, of moderate length, has a slight wave, but no curl, and is feathered around the long ears and feet.  These spaniels typically have gently expressions, with large, dark eyes, short muzzles, and long, feathered ears, low-set and close to the face.  The placid nature of these animals tends to encourage the feeding of tidbits, which can lead to weight problems.  The coat can appear in a variety of colors, from ruby, black and tan, and tricolor, to Blenheim.

Size:    Height at withers 12-13 in

Weight:    13-18 lbs  

Exercise Requirements:    Moderate

Grooming Requirements:    Moderate

Life Expectancy:    9-11 years

Things to Consider

1. This breed has common chronic heart disease.

 

Source

Information taken from "DOGS: An Owner's Guide"

Writer and Editor: Helen Stillwell

Photo taken from www.akc.org