Cavaliers 101

Toy group

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel shares the outgoing nature and floppy ears of its larger spaniel relatives. The breed itself is relatively new, a re-creation of the small spaniels popular with British gentry both for companionship and to serve as a living heating pad in drafty castles. The most common coat pattern is known as Blenheim, after England's Blenheim Palace.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about Cavaliers

Fans call those fuzzy feet "slippers"

Today the Cavalier is a popular dog not just with young families and singles, but also with empty-nesters looking for smaller, more portable dogs than their previous pets. Cavaliers are bright, eager to please and quick to learn. These little spaniels are friendly to everyone, but they save their strongest affection for the people they know best.

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
12 to 13 inches tall
Group Size Small

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Mature adult Cavalier

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Cavalier conditions

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Valvular heart disease

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Dental disease

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Intervertebral disc disease

Senior Cavalier

9+ years

Risk level for common Cavalier conditions

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Valvular heart disease

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Vestibular syndrome

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Gallbladder disease

Cavalier puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Cavalier conditions

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Umbilical hernia

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Gastritis

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Ear infection

Young adult Cavalier

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Cavalier conditions

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Luxated patella

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Toxicity

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Corneal (eye) ulcer

Mature adult Cavalier

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Cavalier conditions

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Valvular heart disease

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Dental disease

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Intervertebral disc disease

Senior Cavalier

9+ years

Risk level for common Cavalier conditions

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Valvular heart disease

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Vestibular syndrome

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Gallbladder disease

Cavalier puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Cavalier conditions

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Umbilical hernia

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Gastritis

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Ear infection

Young adult Cavalier

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Cavalier conditions

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Luxated patella

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Toxicity

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Corneal (eye) ulcer

2-Cavalier King Charles Spaniel sitting down GettyImages-943139710

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3-Fun fact Cavalier King Charles spaniel GettyImages-1185223858

King Charles II of England had a special fondness for his dogs, particularly the ones that became known as "King Charles Spaniels" in his honor. His constant companions, they even accompanied him to formal events and council meetings. The term "Cavalier" pays homage to the English Civil War royalist supporters, as King Charles II was closely associated with them.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel coat care and colors

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a coat that mats easily. Regular brushing will help, but some owners prefer to use professional groomers. The Cavalier is rare among dogs in that their feet are left untrimmed, leaving them permanently in slippers. Because the breed’s ears are relatively long for a dog so low to the ground, they tend to droop into food and water dishes. Using a sleeve called a “snood’ will keep their ears clean. Additionally, acclimating puppies to having their feet handled will make a lifetime of nail trims easier.

Cavalier exercise & training

Loves walks

Exercise level

The easy-going Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a sturdy, small dog who’ll benefit from a brisk daily walk. Smart and eager to please, they also love indoor games and play.

Class star

Trainability

These smart little dogs love to learn and make their families happy. Reward good manners with praise and small treats. Teach some tricks, too!

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Cavalier fun facts

Top girl names for Cavaliers

Top boy names for Cavaliers

Nationwide loves Cavalier King Charles Spaniels of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Cavaliers

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