Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles spaniels, or cavs, developed from the King Charles spaniel (which, as the name indicates, won the special favor of Charles II), were favorite pets of the British royal family for more than 300 years.

In the 1920s an American who was impressed by King Charles spaniels depicted in old paintings went to England, hoping to see the real dogs, but the breed had developed into small, flat-nosed dogs with grumpy expressions. However, noticing that longer-muzzled puppies were occasionally born, he developed the cavalier King Charles spaniel from these throwbacks. This breed is also slightly larger than the earlier breed, and it was developed to be more of an outdoor dog than its coddled predecessor.

Though cavs are very popular in the United Kingdom, the breed is not as well known in the United States and was only recently recognized by the AKC.

True to the swashbuckling name, dogs of this breed have adventurous spirits, and, because they are descended from hunting dogs, their wariness makes them ideal guard dogs. They are also sweet natured and obedient, however, and they get along very well with people, including children, as well as other dogs.

Their long coats and the featherings of their pendant ears need to be combed carefully, and other parts require brushing.

Origin : United Kingdom
Size : (male) Height 12-14 inches ; weight 10-19 pounds
(female) : same
Coat : Long and silky, with feathering on ears, chest, and legs.
Colors include black and tan, ruby (red), Blenheim (red and white) and Prince Charles (tricolor).