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Breed Characteristics and More!
The paragraphs below will describe the general characteristics of a typical Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Genetics, socialization, environment and other factors will also contribute to disposition, intelligence, size, etc.
Trainability | |
General Breed Health | |
Easily Housebroken | |
Low Maintenance | |
Good w/Other Pets | |
Non-Shedding | n/a |
“Such short little lives our pets have to spend with us, and they spend most of it waiting for us to come home each day.
It
is amazing how much love and laughter they bring into our lives and
even how much closer we become with each other because of them.”
-John Grogan
Watch Dogs- Cavaliers are known to be affectionate with strangers. He may bark to alert you, but German Shepherds they are not. If you're looking for a watch dog, you might get by with a cav, but there is probably a better choice.
Size- Show dogs stand about 12" to 13" high at the shoulder and weigh between 12 to 18 pounds. Temperament and health, as opposed to size, should be your first consideration when searching for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Friendly-This is a very "people friendly" breed. Not especially shy or timid, he can be trusted not to nip at the heels of strangers. This breed is also tolerant of other animals and children.
Trainability-Patience will get you much further
than scolding with any breed. Shouting, impatient or harsh training is
completely unnecessary and will hinder progress. Cavaliers are easy to
train because they love to please. Positive training techniques are a must.
Excitability- They are very tolerant little dogs and seldom become quick-tempered. Bringing one into a house with small children (under 5) is discouraged. Because of their gentle dispositions, they do not defend themselves well. A small child could easily injure this dog.
Please choose a breeder wisely. Due to the growing popularity of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, more and more puppy mills are breeding these dogs. Puppy mill conditions are appalling and the puppies are often sick. Please see our FAQ page and read the Health Issues below... And NEVER buy a puppy from a pet store.
Grooming Requirements-A Cav's coat requires a commitment of brushing at least 2 - 3 times weekly to keep it from becoming matted. Other areas that require maintenance are ears, teeth, nails, pads and eyes.
Separation anxiety is common- If there was a down side to this dog's love of people, separation anxiety would have to be it. Cavaliers absolutely hate being left alone. Some can never be trained out of it. Click the link for helpful tips to curb the destructive behaviors brought on by separation anxiety.
Shedding- Cavs do shed an average amount. Most people find this a small price to pay for such a loving little dog, but that is no consolation for those with allergies to dander. If you have allergies and you haven't yet tested your tolerance for this breed. It would be a wise choice to do so before adopting one. Cavs would not usually be considered one of the hypoallergenic breeds, but we'll show you a list of dogs who are.
Puppy Mill Prone- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels continue
to grow in popularity. Puppy mills and opportunistic breeders are taking
advantage of our desire for these dogs in some of the worst ways
imaginable. Rescue groups work tirelessly to save them, but they need
our help. Please consider the benefits of adopting a dog instead of
buying one. We are sure there is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel near you in need of your kindness. Search petfinder.com to find one near you.
Adopting an adult dog is GREAT way to ensure that you get all the breed characteristics that suit you. Adult dogs and rescue dogs come with lot of bonuses! #1. Already out of chewing phase. #2. Already housebroken. #3. His temperament and tolerance for children and other animals will already be known... and lots more! Click here to learn even more reasons why adopting an adult dog is the smartest choice.
-Health Issues-
Cavs are not without their problems. In fact, they suffer from a wide variety of many genetic health issues and are predisposed to acquiring others due, in part, to irresponsible breeding.
We have dedicated a whole page to list of some of The most common ailments (along with symptoms, treatments and prevention) affecting Cavalier King Charles Spaniels today.
Some of these include Mitral Valve Disease and Syringomyelia-. Learn More
Learn more about me, my art, the mission of this site and Rescue Dogs Are Better here.
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