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This dog’s history is both recent and ancient, since the breed existed by the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. In 1926, an American dog fancier noticed that today’s King Charles differs from the spaniel depicted in tapestries of yore. British breeders then re-created the ancient toy spaniel that was once a favorite of British kings and princes. Crosses with the King Charles Spaniel, the Pekingese, and the Pug established the first strains of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, officially recognized as a breed in 1945. The Cavalier King Charles is stockier and has a longer muzzle than the King Charles Spaniel. The Cavalier King Charles, which has eclipsed the King Charles, is becoming increasingly popular.

Tough, lively, athletic, energetic, and very spirited, this mini-spaniel was a hunting dog who tracked game by scent and sight. Very good-natured, intelligent, and gentle, he is a great companion. He does not bark excessively and is not a watchdog. He needs firm but gentle training.

He adapts well to city life but needs long walks. He does not like being left alone, and he cannot tolerate cold and dampness. He requires brushing and combing two or three times a week, but no grooming. His ears and eyes must be checked regularly.

Head:Round. Skull nearly flat. Stop not very pronounced. Cone-shaped muzzle. Strong jaws. Lips not pendulous. Well-developed, black nose.
Ears:Set on high, long. Abundant feathering.
Eyes:Large, round, not protruding, dark.
Body:Long. Neck moderately long, slightly arched. Medium-sized chest. Well-sprung ribs.
Tail:Carried gaily but never much above the topline. Natural or docked by more than one-third.
Hair:Long, silky, not curly. Slightly wavy. Abundant feathering.
Coat:: - Black and tan (King Charles): raven-black with tan markings above the eyes, on the cheeks, insides of the ears, chest, legs, and underside of the tail. White markings not allowed. - Ruby (the rarest variety): solid, rich red. White markings not allowed. - Blenheim: rich chestnut markings well-distributed over a pearly white ground. Markings should be divided evenly on the head, with a characteristic kissing spot between the ears. - Tricolor (Prince Charles): well-spaced and well-distributed black and white markings with tan markings above the eyes and on the cheeks, insides of the ears, inner legs, and underside of the tail.
Size:25 to 34 cm.
Weight:5 to 9 kg.
Group:Companion and Toy Dogs