All About the Breed: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Also known simply as the Cavalier and the Cavie, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an affectionate and outgoing breed. But how do you know whether you are ready to purchase a pet and if this breed is right for you? This information is absolutely necessary in making the decision to purchase a pet.

History

The origin of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can be traced back to 16th century England, where it was commonly bred for the sole purpose of being a companion. Enthusiasts believe this breed to have descended from the King Charles Spaniel and various toy Spaniel breeds, though this has never been proven scientifically or otherwise.

The first Cavalier King Charles Spaniels were imported to the United States in 1952, though the breed was not recognized by the American Kennel Club until 1996.

Today, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has earned popularity world wide for being an amazing companion breed.

Personality Traits

Best known for its loving and affectionate nature, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a sweet natured breed. These dogs are very intelligent and easily trainable. This breed is alert, active, and enjoys playing such games as fetch and frisbee. As a pet, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is loyal, obedient, and very loving.

Train-ability

Due to its need for human relationships and intelligence, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel typically responds very well to basic training and commands. This breed has the ability to learn to perform most any task its trainer is willing to take the time to teach.

Establishing immediate trust and security is key to successfully training this breed. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can be somewhat sensitive to criticism and responds best to positive reinforcement and reward-based training.

Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed

There are many benefits to owning a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These intelligent dogs can be taught to perform many impressive tricks and tasks. When properly socialized from a young age, this breed gets along well with other pets and small children. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is affectionate, loving, and loyal, making an excellent family pet, lap dog, and companion alike.

Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to owning a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This energetic breed requires large amounts of daily exercise and room to run and play. Anyone wishing to purchase this breed lacking the adequate amount of time and space to dedicate to the dog is strongly advised against doing so. A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel not receiving the proper amount of exercise and space will often act out by destroying property, chewing, barking, whining, and ignoring basic training such as housebreaking.

Like many companion breeds, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel suffers from separation anxiety. Individuals seeking to purchase this breed who travel often, have full time work, or are away from the home on a daily basis are advised to begin researching another breed. During an attack of separation anxiety, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel will act out of nervous destruction and may destroy property, chew, bark, whine, and ignore housebreaking training.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has an impressive coat which requires almost constant attention, brushing, and grooming to maintain its attractive appearance.

Common Health Concerns

While the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is generally known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems, including: hip dysplasia, patellar luxation – dislocation of the knee, various hereditary eye issues such as cataracts, chronic ear infections, early onset of deafness, and obesity.

Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel? Remember, purchasing a pet is a big decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with your entire family.

Sources:

http://www.akc.org/breeds/cavalier_king_charles_spaniel

http://www.trainpetdog.com/cav-king-charles-spaniel