Not many dog breeds boast the kind of reputation and personality that the Cavalier King Charles dogs have. In addition to being named after royalty, these cute and cuddly wide-eyed creatures are also as agile and sporty as their hunting Spaniel ancestors.
If they’re not asking for treats and belly rubs on your lap, they’re out in the yard chasing birds and squirrels on their little paws. They belong to a group of dogs referred to as Companion Dogs and have existed since as far back as the 16th century. Although they have been modified many times, more often with pugs, the modern version was created in the 1920s.
Characteristics of Cavalier King Charles Breed
Before you decide to get yourself a Cavalier King Charles puppy, here are some of what makes this breed very popular among dog owners:
- Physical: Cavalier King Charles dogs are companion dogs and are very friendly around people. They weigh from 13 to 18 pounds and can grow to a shoulder height of 12 to 13 inches.
- Lifespan: The average Cavalier King Charles puppy can live up to at least nine years and sometimes up to 15 years of age.
- Grooming and Health: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are generally healthy dogs. However, in terms of shedding, Cavs are average shedders, but you will need to groom and comb their silky and wavy coat 3 or 4 times every week.
- Adaptability: If you’re a first-time dog owner, a Cav is a fantastic breed to own. These guys are great at adapting to life inside an apartment and should never be kept as outside dogs. However, they do not do so well in hot weather, and leaving them alone too much doesn’t help.
- Friendliness: Want a dog that’s affectionate with loved ones and family, friendly with kids and babies, strangers, and even other dogs? Although they may occasionally bark at the stranger at the door, once in the house these adorable dogs won’t stop asking for a belly rub.
Fun Facts About the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- This affectionate breed is named after British royal King Charles “The Cavalier King” because of his love for them.
- Cavalier King Charles is ranked the 18th most popular dog breed in the US. This is no surprise because these adorable little things are good with adults and kids alike.
- They have a nickname, “the comforter spaniel,” because they’re so friendly and affectionate. And unlike other spaniel breeds, Cavalier King Charles dogs were never made for hunting, just cuddling!
- Politicians and presidents are known for having pets, and former President Ronald Reagan wasn’t an exception. The US president gifted the First Lady a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel called Rex in 1985.
- Their calm and affectionate temperament makes them excellent therapy dogs.
- The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel comes in a variety of four colors: Black and Tan, Tricolor, Ruby, and Blenheim.
- Cavalier King Charles dogs give birth to an average of five puppies.
- They were once kept in bed to attract fleas and bugs. This helped keep their owners safe from plagues and diseases that spread through those insects.
The great thing about the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is that they’re great with kids, friendly towards strangers and other dogs. It’s even a fantastic start if you’re looking at owning a pet for the first time or just looking to add to the pet fold.
PremierPups has a catalog of the most adorable Cavalier King Charles puppies. You can place an order for a Cavalier King Charles puppy now and get your very own cute little friend in a couple of days.