Cavalier King Charles Spanie

Cavalier King Charles Spanie

This is a small-sized Spaniel which is affectionate and intelligent and a popular choice with families with young children, but equally popular as a companion for the elderly.

History:

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels were bred from King Charles Spaniels crossed with Cocker Spaniels to recreate the Spaniels depicted in paintings of the 1600s by Gainsborough, Rubens, and Rembrandt. The breed was developed in 1920 and was recognized in Great Britain by 1945, and then other kennel clubs. King Charles Spaniels are thought to have originated in China or Japan, and then became a popular favorite with European royalty. They first appeared in Great Britain in the 1500s.

Although popular as a sporting dog, they were often used by the ladies of the court as comforters and warmers, said to have kept them warm under their enormous skirts. They were most popular by the reign of Charles II (1660-85), and his passion for this breed gave rise to the present name. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was bred from two exhibitors, and went from strength to strength until 1973, when one became Supreme Champion at Crufts.

Physical characteristics:

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is stocky, compact, and has a well-proportioned body. It is taller than the King Charles Spaniel. Height: 14 in (36 cm). Weight: is 12 - 18 lb (5 - 8 kg). The eyes are large and round but not prominent or bulging. The head is flat on top with no dome, and the muzzle is long, with the mouth having a correct scissor bite and a slight stop. The ears are set high. If required, the tail could be docked by the breeder. The feet are round and firm with plenty of padding.

Four distinct color ranges are seen in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniels: black with tan markings on the chest, legs and underside of the tail, above the eyes and inside the ears; tri-color: black and white broken with tan as above; Blenheim: rich chestnut markings on a white background; Ruby: a rich chestnut red wholly covering the dog.

The coat is long and silky and may have a slight wave, but is not curly. There is plenty of feathering on the legs, ears and tail.

Behavior:

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are generally noble-spirited animals that can have highly individual characters. Their personalities range from quietly confident to highly exuberant. Some owners say their Cavalier King Charles Spaniels can be very excitable. This is because some display a very enthusiastic greeting when their owner returns, particularly after a long absence. These dogs are most anxious to please and if given lots of attention, will truly delight their owners. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels can make excellent watch-dogs and enjoy warning their owners of the slightest disturbance. However, it is wise to harness this enthusiasm, by training the young dog to respond to sounds of concern to you.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are normally very sociable dogs, and owners should resist the temptation to always pick them up. When young, they should be given the chance to mix with both large and small, friendly dogs, thereby avoiding an aggressive fear response in later life. In most cases, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel makes a perfect companion and is marvelous with children.

As these dogs are incredibly cute to look at, they can be cuddled and kissed and treated as a toy. Caring owners will provide their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with plenty of activities and prevent them from becoming bored. During play, do not encourage your dog to spin around and chase its delightfully feathered tail; this can develop into problems later.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's magnificent coat will benefit from regular brushing.