Introduction
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, also known as the Cav, Cavalier, and the Cavie, is a breed of dog in the Toy Group. The original Cavalier gained its name because they were a favorite of King Charles I. The breed is most well known for being the perfect lap dog, and it is even referred to as ‘the love sponge.’ The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was approved by the AKC in the year 1995.
The average Cavalier stands 12 to 13 inches at the shoulders and weighs between 10 and 18 pounds. Their long silky coat should be brushed daily, and their long floppy ears should be cleaned and checked frequently for any signs of infection.
Temperament
The Cavalier’s personality is one of open friendliness, a love of play, and of course of love of cuddle and lap time with their human companions. This breed is the perfect family dog, they are excellent with children and the elderly, and they get along well with other animals. Cavaliers even welcome strangers with open arms. The only negative side to the Cavalier is that they thrive so much on companionship they cannot be left alone for long periods of time or they will develop nervous and anxious behaviors.
Cavaliers should be socialized and trained at an early age to avoid any development of shyness or wariness. They need regular exercise, and they should not be left to wander without a leash. Because of their breed characteristics the Cavalier will sometimes chase small birds or insects, and as they don’t pay attention to their surroundings they can unknowingly wander into a dangerous situation.
Health
The average life expectancy of the Cavalier is between 9 and 14 years, and they do have increased risks for a number of health problems which potential owners should be aware of.
History
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is related to various other spaniel breeds, and this dog was bred exclusively as a ‘luxury’ lap dog. The breed was a popular lap dog for hundreds of years until the house of Stuart fell to the Tudors. The Cavalier may have disappeared altogether if it were not for Queen Victoria’s interest in the breed. The original Cavalier may have disappeared, but in the 1920’s there was a successful movement began by a Mr. Eldridge to bring back the “Old Type” Cavalier breed.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Quick Facts
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Weight: 10-18 lbs
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Height: 12-13 in
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Coat: Long and silky, needs daily brushing
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Temperament: Friendly, playful, cuddly
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Lifespan: 9-14 years