Cavaliers 101

Toy group

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel shares the outgoing nature and floppy ears of its larger spaniel relatives. The breed itself is relatively new, a re-creation of the small spaniels popular with British gentry both for companionship and to serve as a living heating pad in drafty castles. The most common coat pattern is known as Blenheim, after England's Blenheim Palace.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about Cavaliers

Fans call those fuzzy feet "slippers"

Today the Cavalier is a popular dog not just with young families and singles, but also with empty-nesters looking for smaller, more portable dogs than their previous pets. Cavaliers are bright, eager to please and quick to learn. These little spaniels are friendly to everyone, but they save their strongest affection for the people they know best.

Energy level

75% energy level

Energy level: 75% (High)

Bark level

  • Very vocal
  • As needed

Bark level: Talkative. This breed vocalizes regularly but not excessively

Size

12 to 13 inches tall
Small breed size

Size: 12 to 13 inches tall. This is a Small sized Dog.

Lifespan

12 to 15 years

Lifespan: 12 to 15 years average

Weight

13 to 18 lbs

Weight: 13 to 18 lbs typical range

Breed Group
Toy group
Energy level
High (75%)
Bark level
Talkative
Height
12 to 13 inches
Lifespan
12 to 15 years
Weight
13 to 18 lbs

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel stands 12 to 13 inches tall and weighs 13 to 18 lbs. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. They are known for a high (75%) energy level and a talkative bark.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels get?
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels stand 12 to 13 inches tall and typically weigh between 13 and 18 pounds.
How long do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels live?
The average lifespan of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is 12 to 15 years.
Are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels good for first-time dog owners?
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are intelligent but have high energy. They do best with experienced owners who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels bark a lot?
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are considered talkative — they bark more than average but are not excessively vocal.

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Mature adult Cavalier

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Cavalier conditions

Dental disease

Intervertebral disc disease

Valvular heart disease

Senior Cavalier

9+ years

Risk level for common Cavalier conditions

Gallbladder disease

Valvular heart disease

Vestibular syndrome

Cavalier puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Cavalier conditions

Ear infection

Gastritis

Umbilical hernia

Young adult Cavalier

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Cavalier conditions

Corneal (eye) ulcer

Luxated patella

Toxicity

Mature adult Cavalier

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Cavalier conditions

Dental disease

Intervertebral disc disease

Valvular heart disease

Senior Cavalier

9+ years

Risk level for common Cavalier conditions

Gallbladder disease

Valvular heart disease

Vestibular syndrome

Cavalier puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Cavalier conditions

Ear infection

Gastritis

Umbilical hernia

Young adult Cavalier

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Cavalier conditions

Corneal (eye) ulcer

Luxated patella

Toxicity

2-Cavalier King Charles Spaniel sitting down GettyImages-943139710

Nationwide can help you save on your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

3-Fun fact Cavalier King Charles spaniel GettyImages-1185223858

King Charles II of England had a special fondness for his dogs, particularly the ones that became known as "King Charles Spaniels" in his honor. His constant companions, they even accompanied him to formal events and council meetings. The term "Cavalier" pays homage to the English Civil War royalist supporters, as King Charles II was closely associated with them.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel coat care and colors

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a coat that mats easily. Regular brushing will help, but some owners prefer to use professional groomers. The Cavalier is rare among dogs in that their feet are left untrimmed, leaving them permanently in slippers. Because the breed’s ears are relatively long for a dog so low to the ground, they tend to droop into food and water dishes. Using a sleeve called a “snood’ will keep their ears clean. Additionally, acclimating puppies to having their feet handled will make a lifetime of nail trims easier.

Cavalier exercise & training

Exercise level

Exercise level

The easy-going Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a sturdy, small dog who’ll benefit from a brisk daily walk. Smart and eager to please, they also love indoor games and play.

Trainability

Trainability

These smart little dogs love to learn and make their families happy. Reward good manners with praise and small treats. Teach some tricks, too!

Group 7727

Cavalier fun facts

Top girl names for Cavaliers

100%

of Cavaliers are female

0%

of Cavaliers are male

Top boy names for Cavaliers

Nationwide loves Cavalier King Charles Spaniels of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Cavaliers

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