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About the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 

The Breed

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an elegant, energetic toy breed that is compatible for city or country life. Successful in conformation shows, obedience and agility, they also make wonderful therapy dogs due to their sweet, gentle natures.

 

The breed also became a TV star when featured on "Sex and the City" as Charlotte York's dog. Their silky coats come in four colors - Blenheim (chestnut and white), Tricolor (black, white, and tan), Ruby (solid red) and Black and Tan.

 

The History

For centuries, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (a namesake of King Charles II of Britain) has been recorded in paintings and tapestries together with their aristocratic families. It is obvious from these works of art that Cavaliers were a luxury item and lived "the easy life" as housepets. Though used successfully for shooting small game, the Cavalier's true purpose has always been that of companion.

 

Is this the right breed for you?

Friendly and easy to train, the Cavalier is a trustworthy companion for children and thrives as part of a family. The coat requires weekly brushing, but no trimming. The breed is adaptable in their need for exercise, happy with either sleeping on the couch or taking long walks.

  • Toy Group

  • Recognized by AKC since 1995

  • Average size: 12 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder

  • Average weight: Between 13 and 18 pounds

  • Make Great Companion Animals

  • Suited to serve as Therapy Dogs

 

(The above information from The American Kennel Club, Inc.)

The following information was developed over many years experience with the breed.

 

Temperament of the Cavalier King Charles

The cavalier in many ways fits the bill as an ideal house pet. He is sweet, gentle, playful, willing to please, affectionate and quiet. He is amiable toward other dogs, pets and strangers. Outdoors, his spaniel heritage kicks in, and he loves to explore, sniff and chase.

 

Are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Barkers?

In our experience NO, the only time a cavalier is noisy is when they can not get to you. Good manners and consistent behavior rewards will make your cavalier the most wonderful pet you have shared your home with.

 

Cavalier King Charles Puppy Selection

There is no difference in size, temperament, or trainability between a neutered boy or spayed female. The age you take your puppy home depends greatly as to how much time you have to spend. Visit with the breeder. The personality type of your puppy is far more important in the long run than any particular markings.

 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Health Watch

In our experience the leading health issue of cavaliers is obesity. Cavaliers 5 to 10 pounds overweight have far greater occurrence of heart, respiratory, and joint maladies. Good dental health is a must for cavaliers to ensure good heart health! Coccidiosis in puppies is very common. Stress of new home, water change, and travel can easily have a puppy test positive for coccidia in a matter of hours. Albon is a simple treatment and should be fairly inexpensive to have on hand.

 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Grooming Tips

Cavaliers have a wonderful single, silk coat that is easy care. We recommend bathing at least every 10 days or so, the cleaner your cavalier is, the more you will enjoy snuggling. Shampoo and conditioner is best with SILK based products, for either people or pets. PET SILK, THERMA SILK, and SILKENCE are all great for cavalier coats with regular tearless baby shampoo for puppies. A SOFT SLICKER and STEEL COMB are a must in the equipment for maintaining your cavalier. Brush and comb thoroughly - bathe and rinse - dry with the hair dryer - brush again - and ENJOY your cavalier clean and beautiful!

 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Training Tips

We raise our puppies on a strict PUPPY IMPRINTING training method which includes: At four weeks introduce a puppy litterbox; at six weeks move litterbox outside petdoor; and at eight weeks introducing a handful of litter on the ground teaches puppy to go to that spot for potty. We give the first bath and clip toenails at 21 days, and every week after that. At six weeks our puppies take their first car ride. At eight weeks we introduce other pets including cats. We have found that these steps all lead to a well adjusted puppy. You should have a plan in place to continue your cavalier puppie's training process.

 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Therapy Dogs

The Cavalier King Charles is a natural born therapy dog. They excel in this venue and it is so very rewarding to watch. We recommend starting with a PETSMART puppy training class, followed with a CGC (Canine Good Citizen) certification. This is a great activity for younger family members to participate in as well through Scouts, 4-H, FFA, Kennel Clubs, or just privately on your own. The difference cavaliers make in bringing joy, hope, and happiness to those who need it most is very moving.

 

Is Show Quality Important in my Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?

As breeders, exhibitors, and most importantly pet owners the answer to that question is YES! The same HEALTHY, HIGHLY TRAINABLE, and BEAUTIFUL cavalier that is BEST IN HOME has the exact same demands as BEST IN SHOW. Breeders using the DNA profiles offered by AKC and following health and training protocols can offer you a superior companion. If your companion must fit into your family life work with a breeder that can help you make the right selection.   Quality is not expensive ... it is truly priceless... 

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