The below information will provide you with the ‘standard’ appearance and characteristics of a Cavalier King Charles (CKC).
Country of Origin
England
Appearance
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an active, graceful, well-balanced toy spaniel, very gay and free in action; fearless and sporting in character, yet at the same time gentle and affectionate. It is this typical gay temperament, combined with true elegance and royal appearance which are of paramount importance in the breed.
Size
Height 12 to 13 inches at the withers; weight proportionate to height, between 13 and 18 pounds.
Eyes
Large brown, round, but not prominent and set well apart.
Ears
Set high on top of the head.
Coat
Silky soft with or without a slight wave. Feathering on ears, chest, legs and tail should be long, and the feathering on the feet is a feature of the breed. Their coat does require weekly brushing and sometimes professional grooming is needed
Color
Blenheim - Rich chestnut markings well broken up on a clear, pearly white ground. The ears must be chestnut and the color evenly spaced on the head and surrounding both eyes, with a white blaze between the eyes and ears, in the center of which may be the lozenge or "Blenheim spot." The lozenge is a unique and desirable, though not essential, characteristic of the Blenheim. Tricolor - Jet black markings well broken up on a clear, pearly white ground. The ears must be black and the color evenly spaced on the head and surrounding both eyes, with a white blaze between the eyes. Rich tan markings over the eyes, on cheeks, inside ears and on underside of tail. Ruby - Whole-colored rich red. Black and Tan - Jet black with rich, bright tan markings over eyes, on cheeks, inside ears, on chest, legs, and on underside of tail.
Temperament
Gay, sweet, gentle, friendly and non-aggressive. This dog gets along well with children, other dogs, and any household pet.
Character
This dog is loveable, energetic, intelligent, obedient and adaptable.
Care
Regular grooming with a comb is required.
Training
The Cavalier is generally easy to train.
Activity
The exercise needs of this breed are uncomplicated. It will adapt itself to the activity level of its family.
Health Issues
This breed does suffer from a few health problems which include but not limited too: Heart Mitral Valve Disease (MVD), Syringomyelia (SM), Hip Dysplasia and Patellar Luxation (dislocation of the knees). Please remember while reading the health issues that all breeds have health issues but responsible breeding reduces these risks.
