Cavalier King Charles Dog Shows Guide

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Black and White Photo of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Credit: pexels.com, Black and White Photo of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles dog show is a fantastic way to showcase these adorable dogs and their unique characteristics.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed has a rich history dating back to the 16th century in England.

They were originally bred as companions for royalty and were known for their gentle and affectionate nature.

One of the key features of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is their gentle and affectionate nature, which makes them an excellent breed for families with children.

Types of Shows and Awards

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels compete in dog shows, specifically in the Toy group.

There are seven recognized groups in dog shows: Sporting, Hounds, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding.

Male and female dogs compete in separate categories.

Winners receive ribbons as well as points.

Related reading: Sporting Lucas Terrier

Types of Shows

There are several types of shows, including awards shows, which are events that recognize excellence in a particular field. Awards shows can be competitive and often have a host or presenter to keep the show moving.

Close-Up Shot of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Lying Down
Credit: pexels.com, Close-Up Shot of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Lying Down

Awards shows can be categorized into different types, such as film awards and music awards. Film awards, like the Oscars, recognize outstanding work in the film industry, while music awards, like the Grammys, recognize outstanding work in the music industry.

Some awards shows are specific to a particular industry or community, such as the Emmys, which recognize excellence in television programming. Others are more general, like the Tonys, which recognize excellence in live Broadway theater.

Awards shows often feature performances, acceptance speeches, and other entertainment elements. They can be broadcast live on television or streamed online for a wider audience.

Awards and Recognition

At dog shows, winners receive ribbons as well as points.

Male and female dogs compete in separate categories.

The final award of the show, “Best in Show,” is a competition among the Group winners from each subgroup.

Best in Show winners are chosen from the Group winners.

Awards of Merit are also given out at some shows.

Close-Up Shot of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Lying Down
Credit: pexels.com, Close-Up Shot of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Lying Down

Best Junior Handler is one type of Award of Merit, and Anja Cikara-Gocke received this award.

Best of Breed winners receive a ribbon and points.

The Best of Breed winner at the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club of Central Arizona Specialty Show was GCHS IVYLINE MICHELANGELO.

Best of Opposite Sex winners also receive a ribbon and points.

IVYLINE DIXILAND DELIGHT was the Best of Opposite Sex winner.

Other awards include Best Puppy and Best Bred-By-Exhibitor.

SPICE RACK ATHENA was the Best Puppy winner.

GYLDEN I’M A BELIEVER was the Best Bred-By-Exhibitor winner.

Best Owner-Handled winners also receive a ribbon and points.

GCHB SPICE RACK INDICA FRED was the Best Owner-Handled winner.

Veteran dogs can also compete for awards.

JEWELCROFT’S GOING CONCERN was the Best Veteran winner.

These awards are a way to recognize the hard work and dedication of dog owners and handlers.

Breeding and Conformation

The Cavalier King Charles dog show is all about showcasing the perfect breed. The breed standard emphasizes a moderate size, with males weighing between 10-18 pounds and standing 13-15 inches tall.

Credit: youtube.com, Dog Shows, Points, and Titles

To achieve this ideal size, breeders focus on breeding dogs with a moderate bone structure. This is reflected in the breed standard's emphasis on a moderate stop and a well-defined muzzle.

A good breeding program also considers the dog's head shape. The breed standard calls for a moderate stop, which is the area where the muzzle meets the forehead.

The breed standard also emphasizes a well-defined muzzle, which is typically 1.5 times the length of the skull. This gives the Cavalier King Charles its distinctive "smiling" face.

In addition to head shape, breeders also consider the dog's overall conformation. This includes the dog's topline, which is the line from the base of the neck to the base of the tail.

A well-balanced topline is essential for a good breed standard. The breed standard calls for a topline that is level or slightly convex.

The breed standard also emphasizes the importance of a well-sprung ribcage. This is the area between the dog's front legs and is essential for a dog's overall health and well-being.

A well-sprung ribcage allows for good lung expansion and helps to prevent respiratory problems. This is particularly important for a breed that is prone to heart problems, such as the Cavalier King Charles.

Central Arizona Specialty Show Winners

Credit: youtube.com, Judging At The Dog Show

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club of Central Arizona held a Specialty Show, where several dogs took home top honors.

Best of Breed was awarded to GCHS IVYLINE MICHELANGELO, owned by Karin Ostmann and Ivy Giampapa.

The Best of Winners title went to GYLDEN I’M A BELIEVER, owned by Julie Ellingson and Kevin Ellingson.

IVYLINE DIXILAND DELIGHT, owned by Ivy Giampapa, took home the Best of Opposite Sex award.

JEWELCROFT’S RETURN ON INVESTMENT, owned by Brian Gray and Bonnie Sands, was named Winners Dog.

PARLETT JUST DO IT, owned by Benjamin and Brittani Williams, was Reserve Winners Dog.

GCH CH ALDER CREEK BFF AT KIDDLE’S, owned by Jennifer Barajas and Megan Cromwell, was Select Dog.

CH PARLETT PURPLE RAIN, owned by Benjamin and Brittani Williams, was Select Bitch.

The Best Puppy award went to SPICE RACK ATHENA, owned by Kelly Collins, DVM.

GYLDEN I’M A BELIEVER, owned by Julie Ellingson and Kevin Ellingson, was also Best Bred-By-Exhibitor.

Credit: youtube.com, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Breed Judging 2025

GCHB SPICE RACK INDICA FRED, owned by Kelly Collins, was Best Owner-Handled.

Anja Cikara-Gocke was awarded Best Junior Handler.

Blythe Bremser received the Reserve Best Junior Handler award.

JEWELCROFT’S RETURN ON INVESTMENT, owned by Brian Gray and Bonnie Sands, was named Best of Breed in the second round of judging.

PARLETT JUST DO IT, owned by Benjamin and Brittani Williams, took home the Best of Winners title in the second round.

NIGHHAWK’S ONCE UPON A LIFETIME, owned by Daviann Mitchell, was Reserve Winners Dog in the second round.

MILBU LITTLE ELF LUELL, owned by Jill Sherrin and Camryn Sherrin, was Winners Bitch in the second round.

FAIRHAVEN’S MOST DELICIOUS, owned by Angela Schuller, was Best Bred-By-Exhibitor in the second round.

JEWELCROFT’S GOING CONCERN, owned by Brian Gray and Bonnie Sands, was Best Veteran.

JEWELCROFT’S RETURN ON INVESTMENT, owned by Brian Gray and Bonnie Sands, was also Best Owner-Handled in the second round.

GCH CH X-MAN VOM KANINCHENGGARTEN, owned by Kelly Tracy Woods and Holly Poling, was among the winners.

Recommended read: Dog Show Handler Clothing

Show Preparation and Etiquette

Credit: youtube.com, So You Want To Show Your Dog - Part 1: Getting Ready

Before entering the show ring, it's essential to ensure your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is well-groomed.

The breed standard requires a smooth, flat coat that's free from mats and tangles.

Plan to bathe your dog a few days before the show to allow the coat to dry and settle.

A good blowout with a slicker brush can help remove loose hair and prevent matting.

It's also crucial to trim your dog's nails, clean their ears, and brush their teeth to maintain a healthy appearance.

Handlers should wear clean, comfortable clothing that's suitable for the show environment.

A neat and tidy appearance will help you and your dog make a positive impression on the judges.

Handlers are expected to be calm and composed in the show ring, avoiding any unnecessary distractions.

Your dog should be on a leash or in a crate when arriving at the show, and they should be kept in a designated area until it's time to enter the ring.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost of a King Charles Cavalier dog?

The average cost of a King Charles Cavalier dog is between $1,800 to $3,500. Prices can vary depending on factors like show quality and breeder reputation.

What are the disadvantages of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are prone to various health issues, including heart conditions and neurological disorders. This makes regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing essential for responsible ownership.

Has a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel ever won Westminster?

No, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has never won Best in Show or Best of Group at Westminster. Despite being a popular breed, they remain one of the few breeds to have never achieved this honor.

Rachel Kunze

Senior Writer

Rachel Kunze is a passionate writer with a keen interest in the world of animals and agriculture. Her articles have been featured in various publications, covering topics such as the Maremma Sheepdog and livestock breeds. With a deep understanding of the subject matter, Rachel's writing is informative, engaging, and accessible to readers of all levels.

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