General
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a delightfully affectionate, playful, intelligent little dog that repays his owner's care and attention with an endearing devotion.

A toy breed, they have a natural coat which needs no trimming, long silky ears, and large soulful eyes. More than one person has described them as looking like a Cocker Spaniel puppy all their lives. The standard makes tail docking optional, but two-thirds of the tail must be left intact and the tail is often left natural. Dew claws are removed as they are thought to be a hazard to the prominent eyes.

Cavaliers come in four color combinations: Blenheim (red & white, with a red mask and ears, and red patches on a white body); tricolor (black and white with tan points); ruby (solid red); and black & tan (without white).

In addition to being a fine companion, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was originally bred to warm laps in drafty castles and on chilly carriage rides (they were also supposed to attract fleas and therefore spare their masters in the days of the Plague). While so many other dog breeds no longer perform the tasks for which they were developed (pulling milk carts, herding sheep, hunting lions...), Cavaliers still take their responsibility quite seriously. A prescription written in Old English for the queen of England directs her to keep a "comforte dog" (now known as the Cavalier King CHarles Spaniel) on her lap to treat a cold. It is almost as if the breed's motto is, "So many laps, so little time." Cavaliers take cuddling so seriously that "If you want your pillow you must get there first" is often heard when Cavalier owners gather.

Are Cavaliers good with seniors?

Retirees and empty nesters find the companionship, temperament, small size, and easy maintenance of Cavaliers ideal. Women have mentioned that a Cavalier resting on her lap or in the crook of her arm is almost as peaceful as holding a sleeping infant. And more than one senior citizen has received two invitations for a cocktail party or other get-together, one addressed to the senior and the other to his or her Cavalier.

Are Cavaliers good guard dogs?

No. While Cavaliers will alert their owners to the arrival of someone new, they seem to regard all strangers as friends they haven't met yet. Although a noisy greeting might be enough to ward off a prowler, it is difficult to picture anyone being scared off by a Cavalier.

Do Cavaliers travel well?

People who travel find it easy and pleasant to take their Cavaliers along. Their strong desire to be with their owners makes them willing travelers. Their size and personality contribute to their welcome at “dogs allowed” hotels, marinas, and campgrounds.

Are Cavaliers an American Kennel Club (AKC) breed?

As of January 1996, Cavaliers are fully recognized by the AKC. This recognition has resulted in two national breed clubs, the original CKCSC, USA and the AKC-recognized American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club. The long-term results remain to be seen.

They have full recognition by the British Kennel Club and the Canadian KC does not recognize Cavaliers registered with the CKCSC-USA, but does recognize those registered with the AKC.

Can I find a Cavalier in a pet store?

Hopefully, NEVER! The CKCSC, USA tries to make sure this never happens. Every attempt has been made by the CKCSC-USA to prevent Cavaliers from falling into the hands of puppy mills or anyone else who would resell them. Cavalier breeders must adhere to the CKCSC-USA Code of Ethics, which specifically prohibits providing any puppies for resale.