CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL
Breed Group: Toy/Gun Dog
For full breed standards, visit UK Kennel Club or American Kennel Club
Average height: 30.48 - 33.02 cms (12 - 13 in)
Average Weight: 5.89 - 8.16 kgs (13 - 18 lbs)
Coat Length: Long
Life Span: 12 - 15 years
Colours: Tri-color, ruby, black & tan, blenheim (red/white)
HISTORY
Named for the Duke of Marlborough's victory at the Battle of Blenheim, these Spaniels were a favorite of King Charles. As more flat-faced breeds like the Pug and Japanese Chin became popular, the original Spaniels with longer muzzles nearly became extinct until an American by the name of Roswell Eldridge dared British breeders to bring them back by offering a prize of 25 pounds sterling – almost $2,000 today. Met with disdain at first, it was only after several years that one breeder, who also bred Papillions, produced the longer muzzle that Mr. Eldridge was looking for. That dog, 'Ann's Son', won best of breed that year (and for subsequent years) and became the template for the standard that we recognize today.
L.E.G.S.
Using the L.E.G.S.® model, our breed descriptions offer insights into typical behavior based on Genetics, Learning, Environment, and Self.
Knowing the sort of 'job' a breed was created for can offer valuable insights into the type of life dogs of that breed would most enjoy. But bear in mind, they are all individuals, treat the following as an indication of breed tendencies – not a prediction.
Shedding
minimal <> considerable
Grooming
minimal <> likely to need professional grooming
Barking
relatively quiet <> very vocal
Predatory behaviour around other pets/livestock
low<>high
Response to strangers
happy to greet everyone <> very wary
Affectionate with family
not at all<>very cuddly
Playful
serious<>very playful
Focus on handler (bond)
independent thinker<>very biddable
Excitable/Impulsive
very calm<>easily aroused
Motivated
laid back<>obsessive
Easy to care for
suitable for inexperienced<>challenging
Exercise needs
minimal<>hours daily
Off-lead exercise needs
happy on lead<>needs plenty of freedom
Enrichment needs
basic<>needs challenges
WHY YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL
- They are up for anything from a hike in the woods to a cuddle on the couch
- They are enthusiastic, cooperative, outgoing, fun-loving, and sensitive
WHY THEY MAY BE HARD TO LIVE WITH
- They can be demanding of your time and attention, co-dependent, and clingy
- They require emotional, physical, and mental care
- They may alert bark at strangers and novelty in their environment
YOUR CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL PUPPY HIGHLIGHTS
Cavalier puppies are love sponges and can form strong attachments to their people. While it may be tempting to spend all your time doting on your puppy, they can be prone to separation related behaviors, so it's important to teach them some independence right from the start. Cavalier puppies need a proper balance of safe physical, mental, and emotional stimulation to develop into a happy, calm dog.
YOU MAY NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP WITH:
- Separation anxiety
- Alert or demand barking
- Impulse control issues
YOUR RELATIONSHIP SURVIVAL KEY
You'll love the antics and cheerful disposition of this lively little dog as long as you are willing to put the time into training independence and life skills necessary for navigating their world
UPBRINGING
You should introduce novelty to your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel at an early age and teach them how to be alone for short periods of time.
LIFESTYLE
They are adaptable to life on the go or a quiet life at home.
INTERESTS & HOBBIES
They are great at a variety of activities from agility, rally, freestyle, and tricks to cuddling on the couch watching the latest chick-flick.
EDUCATION
Early training is key to a well-adjusted, happy Cavalier. They never tire of learning and are always up for a new challenge or activity.
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