About the Cavalier
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a long history, originating in the noble courts of England. They had almost disappeared in the early 1900s as favour fell on the shorter nosed variety, now called the King Charles Spaniel (Charlies).
In 1926 there was a prize offered by Mr Roswell Eldridge, at CRUFTS, for a 'Toy Spaniel of the old Variety'. This generated sufficient interest and breeders concentrated on resurrecting this old type. In 1928 the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club was founded and the breed kept the 'King Charles Spaniel' name as a nod to their foundations.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is now more popular than the King Charles Spaniel with just over 3000 'Cavaliers' registered with the Kennel Club in 2019 and only 93 'Charlies' registered.
Pictured on the blue background is a King Charles Spaniel (Sat up) and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (Laid Down).
Cavaliers make excellent family pets, they are sporting, affectionate and incredibly friendly by nature, making them perfect for families.
They are small - around 7-10kg - classified by the Kennel Club as Toy dogs. These dogs enjoy being by your side and like nothing better than sitting on your lap in the evening.
Do not be mistaken though, they are active and need exercise. They will be happy to go for a 20-minute amble or a 10-mile hike; they really are very versatile.
They would not fair well as an outdoor dog or a dog left alone for long hours. Many breeders will not sell to homes where the dog will be left alone all day.
They have moderate coats, that will need to be brushed, with attention paid to their feathering. (Legs, Ears, Chest and Skirt)
A Cavalier's lifespan is expected to be over 10 years.
They come in four colours, the Tricolour, Ruby, Blenheim and Black and Tan.
