Cavalier King Charles Spaniel adult in black and white

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are sporting, affectionate and absolutely fearless.

About the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Their cheerful, friendly nature, lacking any aggression, has made these dogs very popular since the end of the last millennium.

Active, gracious and well balanced, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a particularly gentle expression, with big dark eyes that exude intelligent curiosity.

Source: key facts and characteristics sourced from Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

Breed specifics

Group
FCI Group 9, AKC Toy Group
Size category
Small
Avg life expectancy
10–14 years

Lively / Loving / Confident / Friendly / Even-tempered

Key facts

  • Requires moderate grooming
  • Garden not essential
  • Makes a great family dog
Breed origins illustration

Origins of the breed

The breed wasn’t officially recognised in the U.K. until 1945. Prior to that it was considered to be the same as an English Toy Spaniel, known as the King Charles Spaniel by The Kennel Club.

An American Toy Spaniel enthusiast named Roswell Eldridge was responsible for the emergence of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. He offered a substantial amount of money to anyone who could produce an old-fashioned type as depicted in 16th, 17th and 18th century paintings. That duly happened and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club was established in 1928.

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