Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dog
The unmissable and beautiful Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a popular addition to many homes worldwide. This companion breed has been adoring the laps and couches of all that love them. But be warned, their spaniel history still runs through this active little dog’s veins.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel At A Glance
| Lifespan | 9-14 years |
| Temperament | Playful, sociable |
| Suitable | A family friendly breed known for their quiet disposition – perfect for apartments |
| Health | Generally healthy breed but may be prone to certain health conditions |
| COMMON CLAIMS | MAXIMUM CLAIM |
|---|---|
| Anal Sac Disorder | $2,273.20 |
| Ear Conditions | $904.80 |
| Eye Conditions | $4,857.74 |
| Gastrointestinal Tract Conditions | $4,654.76 |
| Heart Conditions | $4,557.72 |
| Foreign Body or Toxin Ingestion | $6,126.46 |
| Muscle/Skeletal Condition | $1,329.30 |
| Arthritis | $954.00 |
| Neurological Condition | $5,635.08 |
| Infection/Allergy & Other | $929.43 |
*Pet Insurance Australia Data 2022/2023
Training The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
With an ancestry etched in, flushing out birds and retrieval, the Cavalier is a wonderfully active little dog who performs well in all training levels. They are certainly a people-pleasing breed and simply adore those who own them. This is a great advantage when it comes to training. However, this precious breed is very sensitive and, like all breeds of dogs, does not take well to harsh training methods or punishment. Simply raising your voice will send your Cavalier running for cover. They also LOVE food, so food rewards and pats are a great way to reinforce the correct behaviour. Early socialisation with other pets and people is essential. Being a Spaniel at heart, they will flush out birds and small pets. Training your wee pup is important, especially regarding manners and a solid recall command.
Grooming Requirements
Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel will require grooming at least three to four times a week to keep their coats looking their best and tangle-free. Many professional breeders also suggest trimming the hair between the toes. It is also a good idea to check for grass seeds after an off-leash run, taking particular notice of the ears, between the toes and underbelly. They are not massive shedders but will drop hair throughout the year, particularly if you do not have a good grooming regime. As the weather warms, additional grooming may be necessary. Getting your pup used to nail clipping and teeth brushing is also an excellent way to keep your dog healthy.
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Common Health Conditions
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a popular breed known for their affectionate nature and stunning ears and eyes. However, like many purebred dogs, they can be prone to specific health issues.
- Mitral Valve Disease (MVD): Common in older Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, this severe condition is due to the deterioration of the mitral valve and can lead to heart failure. The damage can cause blood to be forced backwards from one chamber to another instead of pumping out of the heart. Depending on the severity of MVD, treatment can involve medication and possible surgery to repair the damaged valve.
- Syringomyelia (SM): Also known as ‘neck scratcher’s disease’, this condition is when cysts or cavities form within the spinal cord near the neck. Treatment may include surgery, medication and physiotherapy.
- Hip Dysplasia: Although this issue is only thought to affect larger breeds, hip dysplasia is also a concern for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This malformation of the hip joint can also lead to arthritis. Treatment usually involves weight management, medication and, in severe cases, surgery to correct the joint.
- Ear Problems: Those beautifully floppy ears can come with a risk of ear conditions and infections. Regular cleaning and grooming are essential with the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel to ensure you catch a problem before it escalates.
- Eye Issues: As with many large-eyed dog breeds, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can also suffer from eye conditions such as cataracts, retinal problems, and other conditions. Eye care is paramount; a veterinary check-up is highly recommended if you are concerned about your Cavalier’s eyes.
- Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome (CKCSICD): This is a combination of dry eye and a rough, curly coat. It is caused by the eye's inability to produce tears, which can lead to ulcers and infections. Many also suffer from thick, crusting skin on the paws/pads and itchy skin conditions. Treatment includes artificial tears and antibiotics alongside soothing shampoos and creams.
- Epilepsy: Some Cavaliers can suffer from seizures, which can often be managed with medication. These can range from mild to severe and need urgent veterinary management.
- Patellar Luxation: As with many smaller breeds, Patellar Luxation can become a problem. Caused by the kneecap slipping out of place, the treatment consists typically of weight management, physiotherapy, exercise modification and medication. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended.
- Degenerative Disk Disease (IVDD): As with many small breeds who have extended backs, they can be prone to spinal-related problems. IVDD is due to the calcification in the disk's centre, causing the capsule to become brittle and possibly burst. Treatment can include medication and rest, but typically, surgery will be required to correct this problem.
- Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS): Even though the loveable Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is not as brachycephalic as breeds such as Pugs, French Bulldogs and Bulldogs, they unfortunately still face some breathing-related issues. Keeping your dog cool during the cooler months is vital, as to care during exercise. Surgery to correct this problem is typically recommended for all brachycephalic breeds.
Exercise Requirements
Regardless of their size, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel will require a good dose of daily exercise. They also LOVE food, so a Cavalier can become overweight very quickly. It is vital to keep the snacks to a minimum and the exercise to a maximum, which is easier said than done, especially when the Cavalier turns on the charm with those adorable eyes. Obese dogs are sick dogs and can invite many health-related issues down the line. Your Cavalier will enjoy a good walk daily alongside a run in the backyard.
Intelligence
This breed is very intelligent, which will make training easy. They love to be by their owner’s side and make them happy. Like with all intelligent dogs, keeping them occupied when you are not at home is crucial. Consider enriching your dog’s environment with new toys that you rotate daily, having a selection of ‘home alone’ toys. Ensure you always collect these toys when you return home to keep your Cavalier interested. This breed loves being taught new tricks and games. They adore any activity to ensure they are the centre of attention.
Family Friendly
This breed makes an excellent family companion and will adore anyone who will give them affection, love and playtime. However, like all breeds, care must be taken to avoid injury. As with all dogs, teaching your children how to behave around them correctly is vital. They make great loyal family friends, becoming your friendly little shadow and bounding alongside children to play.
Indoor/outdoor?
The Cavalier is a companion dog; in saying this, they do not take well to being left for endless hours alone in the backyard. The dog will pine and be miserable. If your pup will be spending lengthy times apart from you, this may not be the best breed to consider. When leaving your dog in the yard, consider boredom busters and treat-balls. Remember to remove the number of treats from their daily diet to prevent weight issues. They are house dogs and should not predominantly live outdoors.
Breeding
It is imperative to only source your new family member from a reputable breeding program to ensure your puppy is healthy. Ask all the important questions about hereditary problems, and if you can, ask to view Mum and Dad. Contact your local breed club and research your chosen breeder to ensure the breeder you purchase from is well-known for good breeding practices. Most top breeders will have documentation on hereditary tests in their dogs’ bloodlines. This can also help prevent possible genetic diseases in your puppy. It may take a little more time than a quick online purchase, but it can save you and your family from unimaginable heartache and pain in dealing with a sick puppy.
Contact PIA for Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Pet Insurance
PIA is a family owned pet insurance company for Australia, and we have a long and successful history of helping owners care for their Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Contact us today to learn more about our range of simple, flexible and affordable cover options.
