Introduction
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a devoted and affectionate companion, beloved for its warm and gentle nature.
This charming breed earned its regal name from British royalty during the 17th century. King Charles I and his son, King Charles II, adored their Cavalier companions so much that they took them everywhere—even to sessions of Parliament, according to Petscarelab’s archives.
Originally bred to cozy up on laps within chilly castles or accompany their owners on brisk carriage rides, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the ultimate lapdog with hearts full of friendliness. Their sweet and gentle disposition makes them an ideal choice for first-time dog owners. Today, they proudly hold the position as the 14th most popular dog breed according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Caring for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are petite dogs, typically standing 12 to 13 inches tall and weighing between 13 and 18 pounds. Their signature look includes naturally floppy ears, a long back, a compact body, and a deep chest. Their silky, flowing coat appears in four distinct color patterns:
- Blenheim Cavaliers boast a rich blend of reddish-brown and white fur, featuring a partial red mask, red ears, and striking red patches on a white canvas.
- Tricolor Cavaliers display a sleek combination of black and white, accented by warm tan points.
- Ruby Cavaliers shine in a solid, vibrant red coat.
- Black and Tan Cavaliers present a classic black fur adorned with elegant tan markings.
To keep their luxurious coat healthy and minimize shedding, they require brushing at least once a week. Additionally, regular professional grooming sessions are essential—so be sure to budget for this care.
Purposefully bred as loving companions, Cavaliers thrive by your side or nestled comfortably in your lap. While they do need regular exercise and mental engagement, once their energy is satisfied, these gentle dogs are perfectly content to relax and bond with family at home.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Health Issues
With an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, Cavaliers are generally sturdy but can be prone to various health concerns that call for routine veterinary check-ups.
Reputable breeders screen their dogs to reduce hereditary health risks, but obtaining pet insurance is a wise choice to help ease any unexpected medical costs when you welcome a Cavalier puppy into your home.
Eye Conditions
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a higher risk of developing eye problems like cherry eye, dry eye, retinal disorders, and cataracts.
These issues can be detected via thorough eye exams—noninvasive, painless, and simple procedures that veterinarians perform during routine visits. Using specialized equipment, vets check the eye’s surface, the retina, and evaluate tear production to detect abnormalities early.
Watch for symptoms such as:
- Swelling at the corner of the eye
- Unusual eye discharge
- Squinting or blinking excessively
- Cloudy-looking eyes
- Bumping into objects
Depending on the diagnosis, treatments might include surgery or ongoing eye medications.
Patellar Luxation
Patellar luxation—when the kneecaps slip out of place—is common in Cavaliers. This condition often becomes noticeable within the first 18 months but can surface anytime, even before symptoms appear.
Signs include limping, lameness, or a “bunny hopping” gait, typically affecting both hind legs. Treatment varies by severity and may involve anti-inflammatory medications, limiting exercise, or surgery.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is another prevalent concern where the thigh bone does not fit properly into the hip socket. It can be hereditary or triggered by environmental factors like excess weight.
Affected dogs often show pain through limping, decreased activity, or loss of appetite. Responsible breeders have their dogs’ hips evaluated by veterinarians using X-rays as early as four months to help prevent passing this genetic issue to future puppies.
Mitral Valve Heart Disease
Mitral valve disease (MVD) is the leading cause of death for Cavaliers. It involves the deterioration of the heart’s mitral valve, which normally ensures blood flows correctly. When damaged, blood leaks backward, causing heart muscle damage and, in Cavaliers, often leads to congestive heart failure.
Symptoms to watch for include:
- Persistent coughing
- Low exercise tolerance
- Difficulty breathing
- Fainting spells
Syringomyelia
Syringomyelia (SM), sometimes called “neck scratcher’s disease,” is a serious, inherited neurological disorder frequently diagnosed in Cavaliers between 6 months and 3 years of age, though cases occur in older dogs too.
This condition causes fluid accumulation around the spinal cord due to structural abnormalities in the brain and skull. Diagnosis involves MRI scans, alongside observing classic signs:
- Scratching at or near the shoulder, sometimes in mid-air, especially when excited or on a leash
- Unexplained yelping or whining from pain
- Weakness or incoordination in the legs
- Head shaking or lip licking
- Seizures
While medical management can ease symptoms, surgery is often necessary in severe cases to relieve pain.
What To Feed a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavaliers thrive on a complete, balanced diet that meets Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards. Selecting food designed specifically for small or toy breeds is essential, as the smaller kibble size aids digestion.
Popular dog food brands highly recommended for Cavaliers include Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina. Royal Canin even offers formulas tailored exclusively for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Always consult your veterinarian to identify the best food choice for your individual dog.
How To Feed a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Puppies under one year require specially formulated puppy food packed with nutrients to support their rapid mental and physical growth.
Avoid “all life stages” diets unless they are specifically for puppies, as these may not meet the needs of adult or senior dogs.
Adult Cavaliers over one year old should transition to an adult dog formula. Once your dog reaches 7 to 8 years old, discuss with your vet whether switching to a senior dog food—with its leaner profile and added supplements like glucosamine for joint health—is appropriate.
To help prevent orthopedic issues, consider feeding adult and senior Cavaliers diets with lower fat or calorie content to maintain a healthy weight.
How Much Should You Feed a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?
Feed puppies three to four small meals daily to prevent dips in blood sugar, while adult dogs thrive on two meals per day.
The exact amount varies depending on weight, activity level, and overall health. Work with your vet, follow package guidelines, or consult the dog food manufacturer’s nutrition experts to tailor feeding amounts to your dog’s needs.
Nutritional Tips for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
When fed a high-quality, AAFCO-compliant diet, Cavaliers generally receive all necessary vitamins and minerals. However, supplements can be beneficial depending on their health and life stage.
Joint health supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) provide natural anti-inflammatory benefits to ease pain from osteoarthritis—a common concern in dogs with joint issues.
Omega-3 fatty acids from quality fish oil support heart and eye health while also reducing inflammation when dosed appropriately.
Probiotics can aid digestion and boost immunity during illness, stress, or after antibiotic treatment, helping restore balance to your dog’s system.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Personality and Temperament
Known for their friendly, loyal demeanor, Cavaliers make wonderful family pets. They are patient, gentle, and get along well with children, other dogs, and pets.
Though bred to be lap dogs, Cavaliers descend from sporting breeds and enjoy moderate exercise and outdoor adventures. They adapt perfectly to both active, athletic households and more relaxed, home-centered lifestyles, as long as they receive daily walks and playtime.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Behavior
Cavaliers crave human companionship and do not thrive when left alone for long stretches. Their friendly nature makes them sociable with families, strangers, and other animals alike, fitting comfortably into a variety of living situations.
Due to their curious noses and tendency to explore, it’s safest not to let your Cavalier off leash. Ensure your yard is securely fenced to keep them safe.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Training
With their eagerness to please and keen intelligence, Cavaliers are highly trainable. They excel in obedience, AKC Rally, and agility competitions.
Start training and socialization early—ideally as soon as you bring home your puppy—to foster confidence and adaptability. Always use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage desired behaviors.
Fun Activities for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
- Obedience training classes
- Agility courses
- Flyball
- Rally competitions
- Hiking adventures
- Casual neighborhood walks
- Play sessions in the backyard
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Grooming Guide
Cavaliers are quite easy to maintain with regular brushing using a bristle or pin brush to preserve coat shine and prevent tangles. The frequency depends on how long you allow their coat to grow—the longer the hair, the more grooming it requires.
Skin Care
Bathing your Cavalier once or twice a month helps keep their skin healthy and coat sparkling. Use gentle, soap-free shampoos enriched with aloe or oatmeal to soothe skin and protect their natural oils.
Coat Care
Their long, silky coat needs frequent brushing to avoid mats and tangles. Brushing doubles as a lovely massage that strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
Although Cavaliers don’t shed excessively, consistent grooming helps reduce loose hair. Professional grooming every few months can ease your at-home upkeep.
Eye Care
Because many Cavaliers have light-colored fur around their eyes, they may develop tear stains. Gently clean around their eyes with a warm washcloth or a vet-recommended tear stain remover to minimize discoloration.
During grooming, monitor for any eye changes and consult your vet if you notice redness, cloudiness, or discharge.
Ear Care
With their long, floppy ears, Cavaliers are susceptible to ear infections. Excessive itching or head shaking may lead to painful ear hematomas—blood pockets that form when tiny vessels in the ear burst.
Check their ears weekly for signs of infection, such as redness, debris, or unpleasant odors. Use mild ear cleaners as recommended by your vet to maintain dry, clean ears.
Considerations for Pet Parents
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels adapt beautifully to nearly any home or lifestyle. They enjoy daily exercise but equally love curling up for cozy evenings by your side.
They get along well with other pets and children, thriving in large homes or cozy apartments alike. A couple of 20- to 30-minute walks each day provides just the right amount of physical activity.
Their gentle and playful spirit shines through in games of tug-of-war or navigating agility courses, making them delightful family members.
While they shed moderately, their long coats require regular brushing and professional grooming several times a year to keep them looking their best.
Is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel a good family dog?
Absolutely! Cavaliers are patient, tolerant, and friendly, making them excellent family dogs who get along well with children, cats, and other dogs.
Are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels smart dogs?
Yes, Cavaliers are intelligent and eager to please, which often makes them quick learners and responsive to training.
How much does a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel cost?
Prices vary based on factors like lineage and location, but typically, Cavalier puppies range from $1,000 to $2,500. You can also find Cavaliers available for adoption through breed-specific rescues.
Is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel suitable for apartment living?
Definitely. Their friendly, adaptable nature makes them well-suited for apartment life as long as they receive regular exercise and companionship.
Do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels shed?
Yes, they experience light shedding year-round but are not heavy shedders.
Should I buy a teacup Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?
No. “Teacup” dogs are bred to be unnaturally small, often at the expense of their health. Avoid breeders offering teacup Cavaliers to ensure you adopt a healthy, well-bred dog.
