Non-sporting Group

Breed History: This breed originated in Great Britain. Small toy spaniels like this have been known in Europe since the sixteenth century; they were bred as companions and to hunt small game. In the seventeenth century the toy spaniel became a special favorite of King Charles I, and was popular with royalty throughout the reign  of King Charles II. By the late seventeenth century, however, it had become rare and almost disappeared. The breed wasn't revived until the 1920s, when an American came to Britain looking for the breed he'd seen in old paintings. For five years, he offered money for the best old-type spaniel at the Crufts Dog Show, stirring a revival of what was to become known as the cavalier King Charles spaniel. The breed has had a following in the U.S. and UK since and has become more popular than the original English toy spaniels.

Breed Discription: This breed is small, graceful, and well-balanced. The skull is slightly rounded but appears flat because of long, high-set drop ears. The full muzzle is slightly tapered and the eyes are round, large, and dark. The nose is black with large nostrils. The tail is naturally long; occasionally it is docked to two-thirds its length. The coat is moderately long, silky, and straight or slightly wavy, wigh feathering on the ears, feet, back of the legs, and tail. The coloring can be black and tan; ruby; Blenheim; or tricolor. Cavaliers are 12 to 13 inches tall and weigh 13 to 18 pounds.

Temperament: This breed is gentle, affectionate, and friendly. They are easygoing and get along with almost everyone.

Energy Level: Low to moderate

Notes: Cavaliers are adaptable and do well with individuals or families, living in the city or suburbs. These dogs need exercise, grooming, and an indoor lifestyle.

Health Concerns: Allergies, hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, mirtal valve disease.