About the Breed

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small spaniel classed as a toy dog by the American Kennel Club.  It traces its origins to the United Kingdom where it was bred as a companion and lap warmer for royalty.  The breed standard recognizes four colors: Blenheim (chestnut and white), Tricolor (black/white/tan), Black and Tan, and Ruby. The breed is generally friendly, affectionate and good with both children and other animals.  Since they are family dogs, it is recommended to not leave one alone for long periods at a time. The expected average lifespan of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is under 12 to 16 years.

For this reason, it is important to make sure your breeder adheres to the recommeded health testing for the Breed as defined by the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals).  In the cavalier, both parents should be cleared for heart, eyes, patellar suxation and hip dysplasia.  Our program also does EMBARK DNA Testing.