Cavalier King Charles: Know Everything About This Breed
Small in size, very elegant and royalty, the Cavalier King Charles is a very lively and active dog. He has been famous for his companionship skills for centuries. Do you want to know everything about this breed? Then keep reading the next article.
Origins and characteristics of the Cavalier King Charles
The first specimens of the Cavalier King Charles emerged in England in the 16th century as “spaniels” (because they lived in marshy areas). They soon became popular with the nobility of that country for their beauty. Also its small size easy to transport in the carriages of the time was useful. They were even chosen by the Ladies of High Society to provide warmth in their skirts during the winter.
King Charles I had a Cavalier as a pet while living in Carisbrooke Castle. But the monarch with whom the race is most related is with the successor, King Carlos II. In court it was said that he was never separated from them, and that he even issued a decree so that anyone who had a Spaniel of this type was accepted in all public places.
In the reign of Guillermo III and María II the water dog went a bit out of fashion and was replaced by the Pug. A cross between both animals resulted in the modern Cavalier King Charles as we know him now. Compared to the “original”, its muzzle is shorter, forehead more prominent, eyes larger, and a less “aristocratic” character.
In the 18th century John Churchill (Duke of Marlborough) had as a faithful friend a red and white Cavalier who helped him in the hunt and his name was Blenheim. At that time, many thought that the name of the race was the one chosen by this member of the nobility.
In the 20th century an attempt was made to recreate the “original” Cavalier King Charles. It was achieved by crossing it with the Toy Spaniel Trawler (now extinct). It is currently the sixth most popular dog in the UK.
Regarding its appearance, the Cavalier King Charles can measure up to 36 cm at the withers and weigh 9 kg. The colors of the cloak are red and white, black and tan, black, tan, and white or red.
Cavalier King Charles temperament
These dogs get along very well with children. In fact, they are perfect companion animals, whether in a house or in a flat. He is happy being surrounded by his owners and loves to go out for a walk. It is a rather sedentary breed and does not have problems with other dogs.
He is not very independent and prefers to trust the leader. It is recommended that you live indoors and not in an outdoor shed. Although it may bark when it detects a stranger, it is not a guard dog.
The Cavalier King Charles is very sweet and moves quickly. He has a great instinct to chase everything that moves (from an insect to a car). It is advisable to always take them out on a leash. Affectionate, noble, friendly and willing to please everyone, the Cavalier is a very intelligent and obedient dog.
Cavalier King Charles Health and Care
The main problem of the breed is mitral valve prolapse with a heart murmur that slowly gets worse leading to heart failure. It is a genetic condition and is the leading cause of death for the Cavalier King Charles.
It can manifest itself from 5 years of age. Veterinarians have developed a guide for owners that allows the animal to live better longer.
To a lesser extent, this breed can suffer from syringomyelia (cyst in the spinal cord), hip dysplasia, patella luxation, cataracts, and retinal dysplasia.
Lastly, it is recommended to maintain a Cavalier King Charles hair brushing routine. Remember that being long, it tangles easily. In addition, when he goes outside, he may return home with objects attached to his legs, tail, or ears.
Image source: David Shankbone, Mapovfille and tanakawho from Tokyo.
