"CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL"

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is in the toy group and is called "the ultimate lap dog" because he is so affectionate. They are widely popular in England but are gaining recognition in the United States.

They are free-moving and elegant in action. These dogs are playful, happy, outgoing and have gentle expressions. They love you and want to be loved.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel have a slightly rounded skull with ears that are high set. Black nose and tail that is curved upwards but not higher than his back. He has dark round expressive eyes that are large but not prominent. They may have slightly wavy hair and it's feathered on ears, legs, tail and feet. His silky coat is moderately long and thick. Coat colors include black and tan, white, black and red, white and red and rich red. They, however, are usually white with chestnut marking but have a color pattern.

Weight: 10-18pounds
Height: 11-13 inches
Life span: 9-14 years

Although these lively dogs are extremely patient and eager to please they don't tolerate being left along for long periods of time. They need a great deal of human companionship.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel does best with older children and adapts to the activity level of his family. He loves people and other dogs. He does well in the country or city. They are non-aggressive and have no tendency to nervousness.

CHARACTERISTICS AND TEMPERAMENT

• Eager
  
• Fearless
  
• Outgoing
  
• Gentle
  
• Graceful
  
• Active
  
• Intelligent
  
• Obedient
  
• Lovable
  
• Good-natured

This tail wager is eager to please and train. He responds to gentle obedience training. He loves to play outdoors but since he has a chasing instinct he should be kept well enclosed. Since they are an active dog they require regular exercise.

HISTORY

These dogs originated in England from the English Toy Spaniel. These toy spaniels were popular during the Renaissance period among European nobility and royal families.

GROOMING

They require regular combing and brushing plus feathered hair on ears are prone to mat. They are considered an average shedder. Ears need to be cleaned regularly and check eyes for infection.

DISEASES PRONE TO:

• Luxating patella
  
• Dry eye
  
• Ear infections
  
• Heart murmur
  

Don't overfeed these dogs since they gain weigh easily.

When buying a puppy you may find breeders don't want to sell a puppy to anyone with children under five. This is because these puppies are so small and they can get hurt so easily. Consider an older puppy or grown dog in that case.