Physical Characteristics
This is undisputedly a small breed, but one that is neither too small nor too delicate. The largest of the breeds within the Toy Group, the Cavalier is considerably larger than his cousin, the King Charles Spaniel that weighs on average about 4 pounds. Cavaliers do vary quite considerably in size, but, on the average, should weigh between 12–18 pounds. The bone is fairly heavy and so a small dog can weigh perhaps more than one could expect at first glance. Cavalier’s glorious array of colors that endears many people to this breed. The range of colors now includes Blenheim, Ruby, Black and Tan and Tricolor, of which the Blenheims are the most numerous. These are generally the easiest to obtain for when a dog and bitch of this color are mated together they always produce Blenheims, no matter what other colors are involved in the genetic background. Certainly the Blenheims with their rich tan and white markings are incredibly striking, and those that possess a lozenge mark on the head are very highly prized. Markings should, if possible, be evenly distributed on the head, and markings that are not symmetrical are likely to be penalized in the show ring. Tricolors are black and white with tan markings over the eyes, on cheeks, inside the ears and legs, as well as on the underside of the tail. The black should be what is described as "raven black" and the tan markings should ideally be found above the eyes, on cheeks, inside ears, on chest, legs and the underside of the tail. These tan markings should be bright but any white found on the coat is undesirable.
Personality
The amenable Cavalier will generally adapt to whatever lifestyle is offered and will adapt readily to a regular short walk around the block, a longer walk with a free romp in the park, or merely a good energetic game with a ball in your backyard. At other times of day the Cavalier will be quite content to join his owner watching the TV, curled up on the sofa or resting comfortably in a corner of the sitting room. The Cavalier is a breed that is often described as "a people dog," one that appreciates, enjoys and indeed needs human company.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel generally gets along well with other dogs and household pets, rarely showing any particular jealousy or possessiveness over tidbits or favorite toys.
Tails and Dewclaws
Historically the docking of tails on Cavalier King Charles Spaniels has been optional but, if done, it should have been carried out within the first few days of life and more than one-third of the tail should not have been removed. Docking of tails is now a subject under some debate, especially by the veterinary profession.
Dewclaws are usually removed, but again this must be done at a very early age, usually on the third or fourth day. Cavaliers rarely have dewclaws on the hind legs, but they should always be checked so that they are not left on unintentionally. The reason for removal of dewclaws is not just an esthetic consideration but avoids these claws, which are not functional in most breeds, from being torn when out running and exercising.
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Health Considerations
Most Cavaliers are healthy little dogs but care must be taken to ensure that they do not put on too much weight. Because of the breed’s appealing eyes, many are fed table scraps without sufficient thought. However, it is much kinder to your dog in the long term to feed a healthy diet and keep treats only to sensible ones, certainly not chocolates and little pieces of cake, however tempting they may be! Obesity, however slight, can put additional stress on the heart, and some Cavaliers have a tendency to suffer from heart problems. Fortunately, many Cavaliers live long and healthy lives, but one should be aware that the apparent onset of heart conditions in the breed is usually around eight years, sometimes a little earlier. Dewclaws are usually removed, but again this must be done at a very early age, usually on the third or fourth day. Cavaliers rarely have dewclaws on the hind legs, but they should always be checked so that they are not left on unintentionally. The reason for removal of dewclaws is not just an esthetic consideration but avoids these claws, which are not functional in most breeds, from being torn when out running and exercising.
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The Cavalier's IQ
By normal canine standards, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a fairly high I.Q. and many of his senses, such as smell and hearing, are more highly developed than those of humans. But even though a Cavalier fits in so well with home life, he, of course, does not, as some would like to believe, have near-human mentality. They are easily able to assimilate the fears and joys of their owners, so it follows that a somewhat nervous person may convey that feeling to the dog, which may well end up with a rather similar personality. Conversely, a highly boisterous or bubbly person is likely to end up with a Cavalier with a similar personality.
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