In the 1920s, an American by the name of Roswell Eldgridge, began searching
for a toy spaniel that he say in paintings by Van Dyke and Hogarth from
the times of Kings Charles I and II of Britain. It had a longer muzzle that
the King Charles Spaniel of today. By 1944, enough of the breed had been
rediscovered to be recognized in England as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
The name Cavalier, which means medieval knight, was added by its breeders
who hope that they have revived the medieval form of the breed.
The Cavalier is very happy, active and fearless. It is very loving to its
family and a good companion for both children and the elderly alike.
The head of the Cavalier has a flat skull, shallow stop (division between
the eyes and muzzle) with large, dark, round eyes that are set wide apart
but not too prominent. Upper lips hang slightly over the lower lips. The
body is short-coupled with a level back. The tail may be docked or not but
if it is, it is to be no more than a third of the whole tail. The coat is
long and silky but does not require excessive care. It comes in a variety
of colors include black and tan, ruby (solid red), blenheim (red and white)
and Prince Charles (tricolor). The weight of a Cavalier ranges from ten
to eighteen pounds. The height averages from twelve to thirteen inches.
nscalfarotto@hotmail.com of Connecticut writes:
The best and most unique dog we've ever owned.
Our Cavalier King Charles Spaniel just passed away after seventeen years
of wonderful companionship. Saying he was unique is an understatement. He
was large for the breed at 26 pounds (not overweight), extremely independent,
intelligent and sometimes demanding. As an example of his personality I
like to cite an event that puzzled me, but was clearly understood by my
wife. Since my wife, who typically fed him, was preoccupied with other things
I decided to feed him. I placed his bowls in the usual place in the kitchen
and he proceeded to bark alternating staring at me and the bowls. Not understanding
what was happening, I consulted with the expert (my wife) who told me, "Oh
you have the bowls reversed, the water bowl has to be on the right and food
bowl on the left." Once switched the commotion ended and he happily
ate his food. He never chased anything (felt that it was beneath him and
a useless activity), would not go to sleep until the lights were turned
off ... so you get the picture of what we were dealing with. He clearly
owned us and we desperately miss him. It will be difficult to own another
dog without making comparisons.
Name withheld by request of U.S. writes:
Fun, loving, obedient dog that never gets tired.
Scares strangers. But if they come into the house, they will jump on
you and show affection (as long as the owner is nearby) but will guard you
if they start barking and you don't stop them (they are like alarm dogs).
Can be very playful especially with children!
Iam_Lol@hotmail.com of Nottingham, England writes:
A dog to suit any temperament.
I have owned two of these dogs and they are both very friendly and trustworthy.
Not only that but they fit into your lifestyle instead of you having to
fit around them. If you want them to keep out of your way and go to sleep
they will and if you want to go on a ten-mile hike they jump at the chance.
They are very obedient and quick learners. They do have a tendency to try
and overindulge on food if given the chance and can become quite tubby if
not fed reasonably through their lives. My two have never been possessive
or aggressive and although they are wary of new people they will soon accept
(a lot of fuss from) them! I would also DEFINITELY recommend them as a first
dog, suitable for all ages and I don't have a bad word to say about them.
Name withheld by request of New Jersey writes:
My beautiful boy.
Our little Cavalier was the easiest dog we've ever had to house-train.
He's so intelligent and eager to please. He's also very playful and loving.
The only problem we've had with him is his biting, but I'm told he will
outgrow this. He sleeps in our bed and, even though we like to think otherwise,
we had no choice about this. One couldn't ask for a more loving companion
who just wants to be with you all of the time. There are four of us in the
house, and he will gladly snuggle with whomever is at home. I can't wait
to get another one (or two or three)!
stardust@tampabay.rr.com of Florida writes:
A sweet dog whose tail never stops wagging.
These are wonderful dogs. Cavaliers were the favorite of British royalty
way back when and still have a very strong holding there. They were both
popular as lapdogs and hunters of small birds; and they still seem to be
versatile. They excel at pet therapy, warming the hearts of all who meet
them. However, I know of many who compete actively in agility and obedience
trials. Always happy; you never see that tail stop. My Cav literally drags
me down the street to meet every person who comes by. They are good with
well-meaning kids p; they will tolerate being hugged and petted by good
kids. They love being with you, whether curling up on your lap or taking
a long walk in the park.
But don't get one if you are going to be separated from people constantly.
I'm gone during the day, but I spend lots of time on weekends and after
school with my Cav to compensate for the time alone. If you have a frazzled
schedule with no time, DON'T get a Cav. They NEED to be with their people.
Also, get them from a responsible breeder p; NOT A PET STORE! I've been
seeing more of them in pet stores; which is a very bad sign. Find a breeder
who does at LEAST heart tests; hopefully also knee and eye tests as well.
Only get a Cav if you can see the breeder's dogs in person. If the dogs
are snappy or shy DON'T buy their puppies. Many Cavs are very expensive
p; expect to pay about $1,000 or more. Don't judge breeders by price.
Cavs are popular in the puppymill trade because they are so pricey. I have
also heard that Cavs are hard to housebreak; I haven't come across this
problem myself. Just stick to a crate training schedule, and praise, praise,
praise when they get it right! Do NOT use harsh punishment! Don't yell,
hit, shake or rub their nose in it! It won't work for Cavs. In fact it will
make things worse. It will probably lead to submissive urination, fear of
people, and they will lose their trust of you. Cavs are very sensitive.
They are also one of the most adaptable dogs I have ever seen. They can
live as lap warmers for the elderly or play with the kids. Do your homework,
find a good breeder, socialize and train with lots of praise and make time
to spend with this wonderful animal p; your hard work will be rewarded!
Name withheld by request of UK writes:
To own just one is impossible!
Cavaliers are the most wonderful of dogs, beautiful to behold, not too
big and not too small,most men would baulk at walking a Yorkie or similar
but NOT a Cavalier; I regularly compete with my hubby as to who will walk
the dogs today! They will do as much or as little as you want of them, but
they will give you 100% of their hearts 100% of the time! Yes they do suffer
with their hearts but a responsible and vigilant breeder will be trying
to produce only the healthiest dogs she possibly can; ask the breeder as
many questions as you can about the heart history in her line,if she won't
answer then find a different breder who will! When all is said and done
you have a lovely little dog who will be your constant companion and confidant,
they know when you are happy and they know when you are sad, my Cavaliers
go out of their way to cheer me up when I am down and they usually succeed
too! Despite their apparently profuse coat they really just need a quick
brush through once a day and a thorough comb out once a week. Try to avoid
letting a Cavalier get fat as this could lead to a premature heart condition.
But most of all I challenge you to stop at just one. If you have room for
one you have room for two, but beware p; they can become addictive!
jason.macaleese@sympatico.ca of Burlington, Ontario writes:
You could not ask for anything more!
I am a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel owner for the past six years. Or
should I say, he owns me. The dog that wants to run and play or sleep and
cuddle. He is the most affectionate, loving and definitely funny companion
on four legs. Cav's even make most on two legs pale in comparison. The unconditional
love and dedication you see in those soulful big brown eyes takes your breath
away. I do not believe there could be life without a Cav. Cavaliers are
known to have some health issues, mitral valve disease, patellar luxation,
and a few others, however, to not consider one because of this would only
be selling yourself way too short. Always, always visit a reputable and
responsible breeder. A breeder who is actively involved in all health issues
surrouding the CKCS is of utmost importance. It will make all the difference
in the world. After owning a Cav. you will never consider another breed.
At least I know I wouldn't. Again, you could not ask for anything more.
They will always make you smile.
Name withheld by request of Mountain View, CA writes on 4/7/01:
My husband actually wanted a Cavalier over a big dog!
We have had one Cavalier for 4 years and the second one for 2 years. They
are amazingly attuned to both male and female owners. They can walk outdoors
for as long as we want; play frisbee or fetch as long as they want; and
cuddle as long as all of us want. I can only think of one or two times that
they have been reserved with a person or another dog. They are sensitive
with people; quick to learn and intelligent in obedience situations; and
I love to tell my my 16-pounders to "leave it" when they meet
a shy big dog! We had planned to get a little dog; then a big dog a little
while later. When it came time to get the "big dog," my husband
was the one who insisted on another Cavalier. She has been his devoted fan
ever since she entered our home. Pleae buy from a reputable breeder who
is devoted to protecting the health of the breed. It is worth every penny
to you; and these wonderful dogs deserve the best in breeding and care!
kewpys@hotmail.com of Duncan, BC writes on 7/20/00:
They are without a doubt the most loveable little creatures.
They are the biggest sponges in a little package. The problem is that they
have no loyalty whatsoever. They love the stranger as much as the one who
feeds them. Even in a fenced in back yard,( if they here children laughing
),colour them gone :under,over, whatever it takes to be with the fun and
probably a dropped cookie. They are easy to maintain but not easy to keep
at home, and as they have no fear one must be very careful to keep them
on leash or in a secured enclosure. I have been raising these little sponges
for 23 years and never have I regreted it. They always give more than they
could ever get.
Name withheld by request of Ontario, Canada writes on 4/10/00:
Wonderful family pet.
We have owned our Cavalier for 9 years. She is every bit a member of the
family. Our children never pass her by without stopping to stroke or speak
to her. Unfortunately she now has developed heart problems but still she
wags her tail when we speak to her. This breed is extremely affectionate
and is truly for the person who wants unconditional love from their pet.
Even though she is not well, she still tries to play with the children if
they roll her a ball. She has been an extraordinary pet for our children
and we will miss her greatly. This breed needs to be with a family who will
spend a lot of time home with them. They do not like to be left alone, but
why would you want to leave such a great companion alone? Cavaliers make
wonderful family pets.
Name withheld by request of Arizona writes on 3/22/00:
A complete bundle of joy, adoration, devotion, and tenderness!
In my Cavalier I found my best friend. He is so affectionate, and completely
attuned to my moods, joys, problems, and all the inner workings of my mind
and my soul. This is a tender-heated breed, not for the boisterous crowd,
but for someone who wants to cuddle and love and talk with a canine! They
are sweet companions, best buddies, and aare a pleasure to have. They are
NOT for folks who leave home everyday to go to work - they would die from
loneliness! They rae costly to purchase (mine was $1500, pet quality) but
for me, worth it to the penny! I would do anything for my cavalier...if
you seek this kind of relationship, then go for it!
sawestwood@lineone.net of England writes on 3/19/00:
The hearts of angels and the spirit of humans.
If you want a loving companion who makes you feel you are THE most important
thing in the whole world- buy a Cavalier and cherish it. They are gentle
and caring but at the same time will walk miles and assume they are the
size of much bigger dogs when of course they are not. You must look after
their coat, eyes and nails and have them checked over each year as you would
anyone you loved. They are prone to heart problems so also look after their
weight and feed them sensible dog food and not scraps or tit-bits - they
do not need it. Treat them with respect and kindness and do not turn them
into toys and pampered pets. Remember they are royal dogs and need to keep
their dignity.
anja.nilsen@c2i.net of Norway writes on 2/25/00:
Sent from heaven.
The Cavalier is perfect for people who don't want to use their dog for anything.
Personally I don't think it is the best companion for little children, because
they are too nice. Kids can do anything with them and the Cavalier doesn't
react at all. It looks like a toy dog But when he come outside, the cavalier
can walk many miles. (as I am from Norway, one mile is ten km, not the same
as an english mile). I only have one Cavalier, and she's sick. But she always
wag her little tail when we come home from work and school. The Cavalier
is not the best dog if you want a show dog, but it will do its best no matter
what. They are very senitive, and you don't have to raise your woise around
a Cavalier ...
as I said earlier ... sent from heaven.
carolinedolan@eircom.net of Ireland writes on 1/9/00:
Lots of fun and cuddles.
We have had our Cavalier King Charles Spaniel for three years. They have
been the best three years of our lives. She is the sixth member of our family.
What we would do without her I don`t know. She brings so much love and fun
into our daily lives. Every morning she greets us all with a wag of the
tail, a kiss and a huge smile. She knows us all by name - Mammy, Daddy,
Suzanne, Caroline and Valerie. She also recognises our grandparents, cousins
and friends and greets them always with a smile. She is the first dog that
we have ever had and the difference that she had made on our livestyle has
been huge. A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a dog full of happiness and
should be respected as all animals should be TAKEN CARE OF.
Name withheld by request of Canada writes on 11/4/99:
The most affection you can find in a dog.
My experience is limited in that I have only one Cavalier at the moment.
He is a wonderful dog with the children and friendly to everyone he meets.
He is a black and tan with beautiful eyes and an always wagging tail. He
has been difficult to housetrain and needs a lot of attention. I would not
want to leave him home alone, as he would be heart-broken but he has not
shown any signs
of separation-anxiety induced destruction. With the myriad of health problems
in Cavaliers
one is always worrying about the upcoming years ... will he have hip problems,
eye problems, knee problems or worst of all, heart problems. I think the
health concerns can tend to hinder a sense of enjoyment with Cavaliers but
if you are willing to research carefully the breeder from which you are
obtaining your Cav your mind may be put at ease a bit more. Temperment-wise,
he is willing to please, a bit sneaky(he only wants to steal the warmest
spot on the sofa), extremely loving and playful
and as smaller dogs go, really very quiet. If you are a careful dog owner
and willing to spend a lot of time,money and love (i emphasize a lot) then
the years you are blessed with, in having a Cavalier in your life will be
years full of unbridled mushy affection.
zannak@earthlink.net of Oakland, CA writes on 10/10/99:
No better canine companion for all ages!
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a delightful small companion for anyone--children,
older people, singles. They are a toy, but they are a sporty, and extremely
graceful in action. They are an affectionate breed who can be classified
as watch dogs only in that they watch you...wherever you
go, those lovely, large, soft eyes follow you. They are not protective at
all, and would probably wag their tales and lick any intruders.
They like nothing better than to sit next to you and cuddle. Ours comes
to school every day where he greets anywhere from 50-100 kids with his puppy
kisses. He also loves our three cats who have more mixed feelings about
him than he does about them. They are a sensitive breed, though, and when
the cats give a signal that they don't want him around, he backs off, though
he finds them enticing. Also, when you take the dog on walks, you should
allow extra time. Because they are relatively rare in the US, and so very
beautiful, they attract a lot of attention.
As with any purebred dog, it is very important to be sure you get your dog
from a serious, proper breeder and not somebody just doing back yard breeding
or a puppy mill or pet store. The worst
thing about this breed is that they are unusually susceptible to Mitral
Valve Disease. A proper breeder should be comfortable discussing this with
you, and providing information on the dog's family history. These are great
dogs for city or country.
Name withheld by request writes on 10/10/99:
Wonderful, loving dogs, but prone to health trouble.
The breed is prone to early onset of heart trouble, which we have been fortunate
to avoid so far. They can have patella problems -- 2 of our dogs have luxating
patellas. One was bad enough to need surgery. Early onset of deafness or
hearing trouble is being noticed by people who train them. It's frustrating
to spend time training, then wonder if your dog qualifies as having the
"functional hearing" required for AKC competition. Back trouble
is another problem. One of ours has invertebral disk disease. Hip displasia
should be checked as well. One of ours has mild hip displasia. There can
also be eye problems.
Name withheld by request of U.S. writes on 10/10/99:
There are easier dogs to own.
Cavaliers are beautiful, happy, extremely loving little dogs, with an enthusiasm
for life. No dog on earth is sweeter, BUT... as they have no concept of
harm, they require a great deal of watching (like a 2 yr old child), and
50% will have mitral valve disease by age 5 (98% will have it by age 10).
Most will ultimately require medication for this condition, and this can
cost as much as $2 each day. They must be checked annually by a veterinary
cardiologist (not easy to find in most areas). They will usually live for
4-6 years after a mitral valve disease murmur is first detected by a cardiologist
(your own vet will NOT hear low grade murmurs!). Cavaliers can also have
hip dysplasia, luxating patellae, various eye problems, back problems and
epilepsy. They use those beautiful faces to get what they want, and require
real diligence to be truly house trained. They are smart and excel in both
obedience and agility.
reskas@aol.com of Coral Gables, FL writes on 10/10/99:
A big dog attitude in a small package.
Our Cavalier King Charles is the most wonderful dog we have ever had. He
is beautiful, but that is not all. He is intelligent, eager to please, but
most of all, he is our best friend. He loves everyone and likes nothing
better than to cuddle on the couch, but then again he is always ready to
play, chase a ball, take a long walk, or basically do anything that allows
him to be with his humans. He is extremely adaptable, is not a barker but
will let me know if someone is at the door. He needs little grooming and
the only downside I see to the breed at all, is their susceptibility to
mitral valve problems, which hopefully can be prevented by breeder testing
and an educated buyer.
Name withheld by request of Florida writes on 10/1/99:
The perfect house dog!
Cavaliers are small, friendly and gentle. They don't bite, don't bark, love
everyone, but do shed. They are the largest of the "toy" dogs,
but no one has told them that; they feel they are the equals of every other
dog, large or small.
Drawbacks: possibility of hereditary heart, hip, knee or eye problems.