Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed guide

Elegance meets cuddliness in the small yet regal form of the Cavalier King Charles spaniel!

Read our guide to find out more about the charming Cavalier King Charles spaniel breed…

Please note: We’ll refer to the Cavalier King Charles spaniel as ‘CKC spaniel’ occasionally throughout this breed guide.

Cavalier King Charles spaniel breed history

Ancestors of the Cavalier King Charles spaniel can be traced back to the 16^th century, when they were known as toy spaniels. The CKC spaniel was originally bred to be doted on by royalty, and act as a ‘bed warmer’ for noble ladies!

While the Cavalier King Charles spaniel was adored by well-known royals, such as Queen Elizabeth I, it was Charles I who established the breed’s popularity. At this time, CKC spaniels were primarily owned by the nobility and became the subjects of paintings by famous artists.

It wasn’t until the late 19^th century that the Cavalier King Charles spaniel and King Charles spaniel began to be recognised as different breeds. Due to the rising status of shorter-faced breeds, such as the pug, breeders began to produce toy spaniels with shorter muzzles and domed skulls.

So, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel remained taller with a flatter head and longer nose, while the King Charles spaniel tends to be smaller with a shorter nose.

Today, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel is a beloved family dog who gets along well with children and cats, provided they’ve been introduced safely. CKC spaniels are also known to be amazing therapy dogs, owing to their affectionate nature. Plus, thanks to their intelligence and spaniel heritage, many Cavalier King Charles spaniels are fantastic at agility as well!

Common characteristics of the Cavalier King Charles spaniel breed

Please remember that the following characteristics are considered ‘average’ for Cavalier King Charles spaniels, and since each dog is a unique individual, your CKC spaniel’s characteristics may differ. 

Average height for a Cavalier King Charles spaniel

The average height of a CKC spaniel is approximately 30-33cm, at the shoulder.

Average weight for a Cavalier King Charles spaniel

Most CKC spaniels tend to weigh around 5-8kg.

Average lifespan for a Cavalier King Charles spaniel

Many CKC spaniels live to be 12-14 years old, on average.

Typical Cavalier King Charles spaniel appearance

Cavalier King Charles spaniels are undeniably cute, with their teddy bear-like facial features! Alongside their friendly face, CKC spaniels have very long, fluffy ears covered in wavy hair.

A member of the ‘toy’ group of dogs, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel is small in stature, with relatively short legs and a long tail covered in feather-like hair.

While the CKC spaniel’s silky coat does require daily grooming to stay healthy and in good condition, their coat can be clipped during the warmer months.

There are four recognised coat colours for the Cavalier King Charles spaniel:

• Black and tan (pale brown).
• Ruby (a rich orange-brown colour).
• Blenheim (chestnut and white).
• Tricolour (usually black, white, and tan).

Typical Cavalier King Charles spaniel temperament

As well as being easy-going and affectionate, CKC spaniels are happiest when they’re involved in family activities – such as summer picnics or dog-friendly holidays! It’s worth noting that even if they enjoy their walks, the CKC spaniel tends to feel more at home curled up on the sofa with you than hiking up mountains.

Most Cavalier King Charles spaniels need around an hour of exercise every day, but it’s beneficial to split this into two walks, to avoid over-exerting them. Some CKC spaniels love staying active, however, and thrive when involved in sports such as agility.

Due to their relaxed nature, CKC spaniels are often straightforward to train; especially if you’ve found the right reward to motivate them!

It can be tough to deny those puppy-like eyes whenever they beg for food, though CKC spaniels are prone to obesity – so, it’s important to manage their weight safely.

Cavalier King Charles spaniel health conditions

It’s not unusual for pedigree breeds to be prone to certain health concerns, and Cavalier King Charles spaniels are no exception. Here are a few health conditions commonly seen in the Cavalier King Charles spaniel:  

• Obesity
• Eye problems (e.g. cataracts).
• Ear infections.
• Dental disease.
• Heart problems (like mitral valve disease).

Remember: Keep an eye out for any health issues your Cavalier King Charles spaniel may develop, and get your canine companion checked by a vet if you have any concerns. If you are considering pet insurance, be sure to read our guide about insuring your Cavalier King Charles spaniel.

Fun facts about Cavalier King Charles spaniels

Fact 1 – Despite Crufts 1926-1930 giving special prizes for the ‘old type’ of King Charles spaniel, the Kennel Club didn’t recognise the Cavalier King Charles spaniel as a breed until 1945.

Fact 2 – Rumour has it Mary Queen of Scots’ loyal CKC spaniel was found hidden in her petticoat after she’d been beheaded!

Fact 3 – The first Duke of Marlborough, who lived in Blenheim Palace, developed the chestnut and white (a.k.a. Blenheim) CKC spaniel.

Fact 4 – An oil painting titled The Cavalier’s Pets, featuring CKC spaniels, by Sir Edwin Henry Landseer and exhibited in 1845, is part of a collection in the Tate.

Fact 5 – King Charles II’s political views were unpopular, so, after he died, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel breed almost disappeared in favour of pugs, due the breed’s association with him.