Alternate Names
Berger de Brie
Carpet Spaniel
Charlie Dog
King Charles Spaniel
Spaniell Gentle
Appearance
Body: Small, square, and well-balanced with a level top line and elegant gait.
Coat: Long, silky, and somewhat wavy.
Color: Blenheim (rich chestnut markings on a pearly white background), tricolor (black and white with tan markings), black and Tan (black with tan markings), or ruby (a rich red all over).
Ears: Long, set high, and well-feathered.
Eyes: Large, dark, and round with a kind expression.
Feet: Compact and thickly padded.
Head: Large and domed-shaped with a full muzzle, flat face, black, turned-up nose, and well-developed lips.
Neck: Moderately long and arched.
Legs: Forelegs are straight and well-boned. Hind legs are straight with firm pasterns and well let down hocks.
Size:
Height is 12 – 13 inches (31 – 33cm)
Weight is 13 – 18 pounds (6 – 8kg)
Tail: Well-feathered.
Behavior
Recommended for novice dog handlers.
Generally good with other dogs and cats.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is easygoing, playful, and fond of curling up in his masters lap or on a soft bed. However, don’t be fooled by his affectionate nature; he loves to run and will be off chasing anything that moves and he perceives as prey.
If this is the breed of dog you choose, be sure to keep on a leash or in an enclosed area to prevent him from darting out in front of traffic or other dangers. Michele Welton notes in her book Your Purebred Puppy that “One Cavalier chased a seagull into the ocean and was swimming determinedly seaward before his owner managed to rescue him.”
He is an affectionate and patient dog who is good with children and loves to be with his family. Cavaliers need a great deal of love and affection from their owner and should not be left alone for extended periods of time. The Cavalier may take to chewing furniture or other destructive activities if left to boredom. Though he is perfectly happy to curl up and rest with his master, he requires both mental and physical stimulation to keep him fit and healthy.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is active, good-natured, and very popular among dog owners. He loves to take walks or go for a run. He’s fearless, well-balanced, and possess the mind of a big dog in a small body. Obedience training and socialization should be started as early as possible. Use positive, encouraging praise and reward-type treats. Harsh treatment may result in a withdrawn and timid dog.
Breed Type
AKC Group: Toy Group (Spaniels)
A favorite breed of both King Charles I and King Charles II.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was used to keep sick people warm by curling up in their laps.
Care and Grooming
Exercise: Daily, moderate exercise is sufficient.
Grooming: Should be brushed daily during shedding season. Be sure to check his ear canals regularly, keeping them clean and dry.
Health
Life Expectancy: 9 – 11 Years
Possible problems:
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (dry eye)
Luxating Patella
Mitral Valve disease (causes heart murmurs and can lead to heart failure)
Syringomyelia (a condition that affects the brain and spine)
Be sure to carefully check the credibility of the breeder. Due to their popularity, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has been the victim of inbreeding which has lead to heart disease in some dogs. Ask about the parents history and to see their health certificates.