The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a graceful, gentle toy breed known for its expressive round eyes and silky, flowing coat. Bred as a companion dog for British royalty, Cavaliers combine the athleticism of a sporting spaniel with the gentle attentiveness of a toy breed. They are affectionate, adaptable, and equally happy snuggling on the couch or exploring the outdoors.
Origin
England
Life Span
10–14 years
Weight
6–8 kg
Height
30–36 cm
Exercise
moderate
Grooming
moderate
Shedding
moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Apartment
Friendly
Named after King Charles II of England, who was rarely seen without two or three of these spaniels at his heels, the breed has a rich royal history. The modern Cavalier was developed in the 1920s when American Roswell Eldridge offered prize money at the Crufts dog show for spaniels matching those in old paintings of King Charles II. Breeders worked to recreate the longer-nosed, flatter-skulled dogs seen in historical artworks, distinguishing them from the flatter-faced King Charles Spaniel.
King Charles II issued a royal decree that the King Charles Spaniel could not be barred from any public place, including the Houses of Parliament
Cavaliers are often called "comforter spaniels" because they were historically used as lap warmers and believed to attract fleas away from their owners
They are one of the largest toy breeds, bridging the gap between toy and sporting dogs
Cavaliers have been featured in paintings by renowned artists like Van Dyck, Gainsborough, and Stubbs
President Ronald Reagan had a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Rex at the White House
Purchase Price
1000–3500 USD
Monthly Cost
~$110 USD
We may earn a commission from purchases made through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Dive deeper into everything Cavalier King Charles Spaniel — costs, care, and expert insights.
How Much Does a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Cost?
Purchase price, monthly costs, and lifetime expenses
First-Year Puppy Care: Month-by-Month Guide
The first year of your puppy's life is the most critical for development, training, and bonding....
Complete Yorkshire Terrier Care Guide
Seven pounds of pure attitude struts across the living room floor, silky coat swinging, head held...
Can Dogs and Cats Live Together? A Practical Guide
Dogs and cats can absolutely coexist — with the right introductions, personality matching, and...
Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living: Top 15 Ranked
The best apartment dogs aren't the smallest — they're the calmest. Six breeds that thrive in...
Adopting a Senior Pet: Why Older Animals Make the Best Companions
Senior pets wait the longest in shelters and bond the fastest in homes. Here's what experienced...
Considering a cat instead?
Browse Cats Breeds
