A gentle toy spaniel bred to be a lap and a friend.
Origin
United Kingdom
Height
12–13 in (30–33 cm)
Weight
13–18 lb (6–8 kg)
Lifespan
12–15 years
Coat
Silky, medium-length — moderate shedding
Energy
Moderate
Overview
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a graceful toy spaniel with a sweet, melting expression and a silky coat. Bred purely for companionship, it combines a spaniel's love of play with an affectionate, adaptable, gentle nature.
Friendly, trusting, and eager to please, the Cavalier bonds intensely with its people and rarely meets a stranger. It fits happily into most homes, though its love of company means it does poorly when left alone for long.
History
Descended from the toy spaniels beloved by British royalty, the Cavalier was recreated in the 20th century to restore the longer-muzzled look seen in old paintings. It quickly became one of the most popular companion breeds.
Where it comes from
United Kingdom
Highlighted in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's lineage color on the map.
Temperament
The Cavalier is loving, sociable, and easygoing, getting along with children, strangers, and other pets. It is trainable and sensitive, thriving on companionship and prone to separation anxiety without enough company.
Health to watch
This heart condition is very common in the breed and often appears early; regular cardiac checks are essential.
A serious neurological condition linked to skull shape occurs in the breed; watch for scratching, pain, or sensitivity.
The drop ears are prone to infection and the eyes to certain disorders; routine care and exams help.
General breed tendencies, not a diagnosis. Every dog is an individual — pair this with regular veterinary care.
Care essentials
Given the breed's mitral valve risk, regular veterinary heart exams are especially important.
Cavaliers dislike being alone; company and gradual training help prevent separation anxiety.
Brush the silky coat several times a week and clean the drop ears routinely to prevent infection.
XPET builds each pet a digital twin — modeling their real biology instead of breed averages, so care stays personal.