Breed Profile – Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Story
The title of “King Charles Spaniel” was awarded to these dogs during the reign of King Charles II, who adored his spaniels and was not separated from them. A law passed by King Charles II still stands today that these little dogs can enter any public place, including the houses of parliament!
These little dogs were used to warm the laps of the nobility on carriage rides and in cold castles and buildings, so they really are the original “lap dog.”
Appearance
Cavaliers are cute little dogs, with long, flowing coats with long feathers on the legs and beautiful long ears (I would recommend tying the ears at dinner time!)
They have very long, loose coats and come in various colors; Black and Tan, Ruby (deep red color), Blenheim (chestnut and white), Tricolor (black and white evenly spaced with tan markings)
Both dogs and females should be between 12 and 13 inches tall.
Temperament
These are very happy and friendly dogs; They walk with their heads and tails held high. They are not nervous dogs and will welcome friends and strangers alike.
They like to be around their people and will take every opportunity to sit on your lap or lie next to you in bed and fall asleep!
They are patient and get along well with children and other dogs and animals; They make wonderful family pets and also make an excellent companion for the elderly.
Cleanliness
Gentlemen require a moderate amount of grooming due to their long coats. A quick brush may be necessary after walkies, because their loose coats tend to pick up debris along the way!
Long, loose ears mean care must be taken when eating or they will be covered at dinner!
Exercise
Gentlemen certainly enjoy their walks and require a moderate amount of exercise. They enjoy the opportunity to go out and meet other people and dogs.
They will happily jog beside you, heads held high, enjoying the sights and sounds!
Health problems
Gentlemen are prone to heart murmurs, although they generally lead an active and healthy life with this condition.
They may also suffer from slipping of the knee joints (subluxed patella); Dogs’ weight must be kept under control to reduce potential problems caused by this condition. If it causes the knee to slip out of its joint, surgery will be required.
Cavaliers also have the highest incidence of any type of mitral valve disease. A defect in the mitral valve (one of the 4 heart valves) causes a backflow of blood into the left atrium or mitral regurgitation. Less commonly, a narrowing of the valve can be identified. Due to the leaky valve, the heart is less efficient at pumping blood to the body.