(Cavalier) King Charles Spaniels

I got my dog several years ago, and people kept telling me that my Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was really a King Charles Spaniel (without the Cavalier part).  I did not know the difference between these supposedly two separate breeds.  Since then, I have learned the difference isn't very much except in size and to the breeders.

The English Toy Spaniel , also called "King Charles Spaniel", are identical.  It is a gentle, happy and playful loving breed that is naturally well-behaved and intelligent.  They are good family companions and play well with children. Their small size makes them ideal for an apartment.  All varieties of the English Toy Spaniel are easy-to-groom, and require regular twice-weekly combing and brushing.

In the late 1600s the King Charles Spaniels were interbred with Pugs, which resulted in a smaller dog with flatter noses, upturned faces, rounded heads and protruding eyes.  It was developed in the British Isles and was a favorite of British Royalty. The breed was recognized by the AKC in 1886.

If you are looking for one of the most charming companions in the canine community, consider the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Cavaliers are the largest breed in the Toy Dog category and make wonderful pets for people with many different lifestyles.

Cavalier Spaniels are indoor dogs that were traditionally bred as lap dogs. They become quite attached to their "people companions" and do not tolerate being left alone for extended periods of time well.  If your pet will be alone often, particularly as a puppy, consider choosing a breed that has less separation anxiety than a Cavalier.

My Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is named Abby.

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Melody D. Scott  |  www.MelodyScott.com