Dog Breeds-Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Other Names- nicknames commonly used are Cavalier, and Cavie

Height- Average height for males and females (12-13 inches)

Weight- Average weight for males and females (10-18 inches)

Life Expectancy- 9 to 14 years

Group- Toy (AKC)

Recognized By- AKC(American Kennel Club), CKC(Canadian Kennel Club), FCI(Federation Cynologique Internationale), ANKC(Australian National Kennel Council), NKC(National Kennel Club), KCGB(Kennel Club of Great Britain), CKC(Continental Kennel Club), ACR(American Canine Registry), APRI(American Pet Registry Inc.), NZKC(New Zealand Kennel Club), UKC(United Kennel Club).

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel originated in the United Kingdom. They were descended from the King Charles Spaniel, and other toy spaniels of Europe.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small breed of spaniel, but considered one of the larger toy group breeds. They have a slight wavy, silky coat of moderate length, and the ears are feathered and long. There are four recognized colors that each have a name that coincides it. The Blenheim is red and white, the Prince Charles is tricolor (black and white with tan markings on cheeks, inside ears, resembling eyebrows, inside legs, and on underside of tail), the King Charles is black and tan, and the Ruby is a rich reddish-brown all over.

The ultimate lapdog, this is a very affectionate dog, with a strong desire to please. This breed gets along well with other animals, and children. They do not like being left alone and thrive on your companionship. Some may have a tendancy to chase, so you may want to keep them on a leash or in an enclosed area.

Will do fine in an apartment, and is usually quite happy with whatever exercise routines you make for them. This breed does not tolerate environments that are too hot.

Cavalier king Charles spaniels are prone to the following health problems:

• syringomyelia
• episodic falling
• luxating patella
• keratoconjuctivitis sicca (dry eye)
• hip dysplasia

Cavaliers should be brushed on a regular basis. Use a firm bristle brush, and pay close attention to the ears for signs of infection or matting of hair. This breed is considered to be an average shedder.