Breed Showcase: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This episode of the Good Dog Pod is all about the companionable Cavalier King Charles Spaniel! Host Laura Reeves is joined by two long time breeders, owners, and showers of the breed to discuss breed history, grooming, health, and more.

What is it like to live with the Cavalier? The Cavalier is a toy breed with all the athletic ability and drive of a larger spaniel. They are very trainable and not too vocal, making them highly adaptable and fit for apartment dwelling. These dogs form strong, intuitive bonds with their owners, and thrive off of human interaction. Because of this, they are not fit owners who work long hours and would leave them alone at home all day. 

What are some grooming best practices for this breed? The Cavalier should be groomed several times a week and bathed once every two weeks to maintain a healthy, silky coat. Owners should pay extra attention to their ears and paws. Our guests offer other grooming tips, such as what conditioning spray to use for the best results. 

What are some health related topics all Cavalier owners should be aware of? A healthy Cavalier can expect to live 12+ years. However, there are some health issues that are commonly found in this breed, including those related to the heart, patella, hips, elbows, and eyes. Owners should be aware of the signs of these diseases and bring their dog to the veterinarian for regular check-ups. To keep your Cavalier healthy, practice preventative care such as keeping them at a healthy weight and regularly brushing their teeth.