Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Description
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small breed with a rich history tied to English royalty. Its medium-sized, wavy, silky coat comes in four distinct colors: Blenheim, Ruby, Black & Tan, and Black & White, often accented with tan markings. These dogs have a gentle expression and a compact build, weighing between 13 and 18 pounds. They were originally bred to be lap warmers for nobility, which explains their affectionate and calm demeanor. Cavaliers are friendly and social, thriving on human companionship and interaction. They tend to get along well with children and other pets, making them ideal for family life. While they enjoy playtime and short bursts of activity, they prefer a relaxed pace and don’t demand long or intense exercise sessions. Their low barking tendency adds to their appeal as indoor companions.
Grooming
The Cavalier’s medium-length, silky coat requires consistent care to prevent mats, especially behind the ears and under the armpits where tangles form easily. Brushing three to five times a week with a slicker brush or comb is essential to keep the coat smooth and shiny. Regular light trims around the sanitary areas and feet help maintain cleanliness between full grooming sessions. Bathing every three to six weeks is recommended, followed by thorough drying to avoid moisture-related matting. Pro tip: Use a detangling spray before brushing to ease out stubborn knots without pulling. - Brush 3–5 times weekly - Focus on ears and armpits - Light trims between grooms - Bathe every 3–6 weeks - Full groom every 4–6 weeks - Monitor for tear stains on lighter coats - Use gentle shampoos to protect coat texture
Learn the Wavy routine:
→ Complete Wavy Grooming Guide
Walking
Cavaliers benefit from about 40 minutes of walking daily, usually split into one session. Their moderate exercise needs mean a steady, relaxed pace suits them best, allowing time to sniff and explore without rushing. A single walk helps maintain their physical health and mental stimulation without overexertion. Example routine: Morning: 40-minute neighborhood walk with gentle leash training Evening: Indoor play session or short fetch game Keep walks consistent but flexible to accommodate their mood and weather conditions.
Boarding
When boarding a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a crate size of 30 to 36 inches is appropriate, providing enough room to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. These dogs enjoy interactive play but prefer gentle activities over roughhousing. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and maintain a predictable daily routine to ease any anxiety. Enrichment should include two active play sessions combined with scent or brain games to keep their minds engaged. Avoid small-animal toys to prevent accidental swallowing or stress. Secure fencing is essential to ensure safety during outdoor playtime. Staff familiar with the breed’s affectionate yet sensitive nature will provide the best care, ensuring the dog feels secure and loved throughout their stay.