The Ruby Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a breed that's steeped in history and charm. Originating in the 16th century, this breed was a favorite among British royalty, including King Charles II.
These dogs were bred to be companions, and their gentle nature made them perfect for the royal family's courts. They were also known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners.
In terms of personality, Ruby Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are friendly, outgoing, and love being around people. They make great family pets, but they do require regular exercise and attention to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Their small size, typically weighing between 10-18 pounds, makes them a great choice for city living or for families with smaller children.
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Physical Characteristics
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small but sturdy dog with a big personality.
They stand 12 to 13 inches at the shoulder, which is quite small compared to other breeds.
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This breed has a lustrous coat and long ears, making them look like a plush toy dog, especially when they're puppies.
Their muzzle is long and more elongated, unlike the King Charles Spaniel which has a flat face.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels weigh between 13 to 18 pounds, making them the perfect lap dog.
Size
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small but sturdy dog, standing 12 to 13 inches at the shoulder.
Their compact size makes them a great fit for many living situations, but it's essential to remember that there is no such thing as a "toy" Cavalier.
Coat
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's coat is truly one of its most striking features. It's medium-length, silky to the touch, and may be slightly wavy.
Their coats come in four beautiful colors: Blenheim, Tricolor, Black and Tan, and Ruby. Here's a brief overview of each:
- Blenheim: a rich chestnut on a pearly white background.
- Tricolor: black markings on a white coat with tan markings over the eyes, on the cheeks, and on the underside of the tail
- Black and Tan: black with tan markings over the eyes, on the cheeks, inside the ears, and on the chest, legs, and underside of the tail
- Ruby: a solid rich reddish-brown with no white spots or markings
To keep their coat looking its best, it's essential to brush or comb them three to four times a week. You should also bathe them as needed, which might be weekly if they enjoy playing outdoors and snuggling on your furniture. Regular brushing will help prevent tangles and matting, and it's also a great way to bond with your dog.
Eye
The eyes of a CKC Spaniel are a beautiful feature, but they do require some special care.
CKC Spaniels with white or light-colored fur around their eyes need daily cleaning to prevent tear staining.
Brown or reddish-brown fur around the eyes is a normal stain caused by porphyrin in their tears.
CKC Spaniels are prone to many eye conditions, so monitoring their eye color and appearance is crucial.
If you notice any changes in or around your dog's eyes, seek a veterinarian's attention right away.
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Highlights
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their beautiful appearance, with large, expressive eyes and a luxurious coat that comes in various colors.
Their striking appearance is just one of the many reasons why they make great companions. With their long, silky ears and beautiful coats, it's no wonder they're a popular breed.
Here are some of the most notable physical characteristics of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel:
- Blenheim, tricolor, black and tan, and ruby are just a few of the many beautiful colors their coats come in.
- Their large, expressive eyes are truly one of their most striking features.
Their luxurious coat requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best, but it's well worth the effort. With a little bit of maintenance, your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel will be looking and feeling their best in no time.
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Health and Wellness
As a responsible owner of a full-grown Ruby Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can affect your furry friend.
Cavaliers are prone to Mitral Valve Disease (MVD), a common condition that can lead to heart failure. This can start as early as one or two years old, so regular check-ups with your vet are crucial.
Heart disease is a significant concern, but with proper care and monitoring, many Cavaliers can lead long, healthy lives.
Some other health issues to watch out for include Syringomyelia (SM), a condition that affects the brain and spine, and Episodic Falling, which can be mistaken for epilepsy but is actually a condition where the dog can't relax its muscles.
To ensure your Cavalier stays healthy, make sure to feed them high-quality food specifically designed for their life stage. A diet with limited ingredients can also help alleviate digestive disorders.
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Here are some common health issues that can affect full-grown Ruby Cavalier King Charles Spaniels:
- Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)
- Syringomyelia (SM)
- Episodic Falling
- Hip Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye)
By being aware of these potential health issues and taking proactive steps to care for your Cavalier, you can help them live a long, happy, and healthy life.
Health
As a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can affect your furry friend. Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) is a common condition in Cavaliers, which can lead to heart failure if left untreated.
Cavaliers are prone to developing MVD at a relatively young age, sometimes as young as one or two years old. This is why regular check-ups with your veterinarian are crucial to monitor their heart health.
Syringomyelia (SM) is another condition that affects the brain and spine, causing symptoms like sensitivity around the head, neck, or shoulders, and even partial paralysis. If you notice your Cavalier frequently scratching at the neck or shoulder, it's essential to take them to the vet to rule out SM.
Episodic Falling is a condition that can be mistaken for epilepsy, but it's actually caused by the dog's inability to relax its muscles. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may start before the dog is five months old.
Hip Dysplasia is a deformity of the hip joint that can be caused by genetics, environment, and diet. While it's not always a cause for concern, in some cases, surgery may be necessary to ensure the dog leads a normal life.
Patellar Luxation is a condition where the kneecap slides in and out of place, causing pain and potentially crippling the dog. However, many dogs with this condition can still lead relatively normal lives.
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca, also known as Dry Eye, is an autoimmune reaction that reduces tear production, leading to blindness if left untreated. Fortunately, this condition can be easily treated with daily eye drops.
Here's a summary of the potential health issues that can affect your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel:
- Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)
- Syringomyelia (SM)
- Episodic Falling
- Hip Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye)
Diet
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels should eat high-quality food specifically designed for their life stage, whether it's puppy, adult, or senior.
Look for dog food that meets standards set forth by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) to ensure it's nutritionally balanced.
Dogs that are under 1 year old should eat a special diet formulated for puppies, which has added nutrients to aid in mental and physical development.
Any dog food labeled for "all life stages" should only be used for puppies, as it's not formulated for older dogs.
Dogs older than 1 year should eat a diet labeled for adult dogs, and when they reach 7-8 years old, it's best to switch to a diet formulated for senior dogs.
Feeding your adult and senior Cavalier a low-fat or low-calorie diet can help maintain lean body weight, which is best for dogs prone to orthopedic problems.
Cavaliers may benefit from food with limited ingredients, especially since they're prone to digestive disorders.
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Fresh food, raw food, and freeze-dried options, like Stella & Chewy's Dinner Patties, can be great choices for your pup.
However, it's essential to check with your vet before switching your dog's diet to ensure they get the proper nutrition they need.
Too much of a good thing is still too much, so be sure to follow the recommended portions to avoid overfeeding your pup.
If your pup has added a few extra pounds, your vet can help you put together a meal plan and exercise regimen that provides the nutrients your dog needs and helps them lose the extra weight.
Remember to dole out treats in moderation, as they can add up in calories – and don't give your pup table scraps, no matter how cute their sad puppy dog eyes look!
Care and Upkeep
Full grown Ruby Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are relatively low maintenance pets, requiring only a small amount of exercise daily, two 20-30 minute walks are sufficient.
They are very gentle and playful, making them a great addition to a home with children. They enjoy playing with tug-of-war toys or running an agility course at the dog park.
CKC Spaniels are very good with other dogs and cats and can adapt to living in a large home or a small apartment. They have a very long coat that sheds some, so regular brushing and grooming are necessary.
Regular brushing is essential to keep their fur untangled and to prevent matting, especially on their ears. Use a slicker brush to keep their coat mat-free and reduce shedding.
Bathing is necessary about once a month to keep their coat shiny and healthy. Nail trimming, haircuts, and teeth brushing are also important for their overall health and hygiene.
Here's a quick rundown of their grooming needs:
- Brushing: Daily with a slicker brush to prevent matting and shedding.
- Bathing: Once a month to keep their coat shiny and healthy.
- Nail trimming: After baths to keep their nails trimmed.
- Haircuts: Regular haircuts can help prevent matting and tangling.
- Teeth brushing: Daily to prevent tartar buildup and promote healthy teeth and gums.
- Ear cleaning: Regularly to prevent infections and debris buildup.
CKC Spaniels do shed, especially in the spring and fall, but not as much as other breeds with thick undercoats. Regular brushing and occasional bathing are all that's required to keep them clean and looking their best.
Training and Behavior
Ruby Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known to be smart and easy to train, responding well to reward-based training. They thrive on pleasing their owners and will pick up commands and tricks with ease.
To encourage positive behavior, use yummy and healthy treats like Crumps' Naturals Mini Trainers, and fun toys that tap into their hunting instincts, such as plush KONG Cozie toys. Consistency is key, so establish a routine and stick to it.
Their "teenager" phase can be challenging, but with patience and gentle guidance, they'll return to their playful selves. During this time, adjust walks to allow for alone time and gradually reintroduce socialization with familiar people.
Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is a common issue in the Cavalier breed, often stemming from their adorable and loving nature. They thrive on social interaction and can become stressed when left alone.
To address this, it's essential to establish rules and consistency in your dog's life. Consistency is key, as dogs can become confused and stressed if rules are not followed.
Allowing your dog to follow you everywhere can create problems when you need to leave the house. Consider setting boundaries, such as not letting your dog follow you from room to room.
Always walk through doors first, as this establishes you as the leader and allows you to check for any potential hazards. This is a simple yet effective way to promote a sense of calm in your dog.
Here are some quick tips to help your Cavalier feel more secure when you're away:
- Your dog should not follow you from room to room or everywhere you go in the home.
- Always walk through doors first.
- Be consistent in your rules and boundaries.
- Control your dog's access to furniture and other areas of the home.
Exercise
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a moderate energy level and minimal exercise needs. One or two 20- to 30-minute walks a day with playtime and obedience training is sufficient, totaling about one hour.
They love taking long walks with their family, but they're not known for their speed. Consider using a harness, like the Puppia vest step-in dog harness, because it's easy to put on and take off.
A harness not only reduces the chance your pup will slip out of their collar and run off, but also protects their neck from pulling or straining on the leash. This is especially important since their hunting and scenting instincts run deep.
Here are some fun exercise ideas for your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel:
- Hide and Seek – Hide a ball/treat/yourself throughout your home and encourage your dog to find it!
- Fetch– Cavaliers love to chase balls and play with toys.
- Walking– This classic form of exercise is still great for all breeds.
Training Your
Training your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. They are smart and easy to train, responding well to reward-based training methods.
Use yummy and healthy treats, such as Crumps' Naturals Mini Trainers, to reward them for good behavior. Small, squeaky toys that play to their hunting instincts, like the plush KONG Cozie Marvin the Moose + Cozie Baily the Blue dog toys, can also encourage positive responses to training commands.
Cavaliers have a "teenager" phase between 6-8 months old, where they may become more distant and timid around people. If you notice this change, don't push them to socialize, as it may reinforce unwanted behavior.
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Here are some tips to help your Cavalier overcome this phase:
- Temporarily adjust walks to have more alone time.
- Plan walks where people your pup knows well cross your path, but don't interact with your pup.
- Have your friend drop a tasty treat for your pup to encourage positive interactions.
Be consistent in your training and set clear rules for your household. This will help your Cavalier understand what is expected of them and reduce stress and anxiety.
Remember, consistency is key, and setting clear rules will help your Cavalier become a better version of themselves.
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Breed Traits
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their affectionate nature, ranking 100 in terms of being affectionate with family.
Their friendly demeanor also makes them a great match for families with young children, as they score 100 in being good with young children.
However, their trainability level is a bit lower, scoring 80, which means they may require a bit more patience and consistency when it comes to training.
Here's a breakdown of their breed traits:
Personality & Temperament
Full-grown Ruby Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known to be sweet and gentle, making them a great addition to any family.
They're adaptable and easy-going, ready for everyday adventures or spending quality time relaxing at home. Their love language is giving and receiving affection, and they'll shower you with love.
Cavaliers are social butterflies, enjoying most social settings and taking pride in getting to know every human they meet. They're great with people and other animals, including cats, but may be a bit timid around larger dogs at first.
With proper socialization, they can be effective therapy dogs and make ideal companions for both children and the elderly. They're generally not a good watchdog or protection dog, as they're not big barkers.
These little dogs are great sports and love to play, but they also enjoy spending time relaxing with their family. They're easy to train, but they can get into trouble if they're over-indulged and receive no basic education or proper socialization.
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General Information
The Ruby Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a stunning breed, and here are some key facts to get you started.
They typically reach a height of 13-15 inches (33-38 cm) and weigh between 10-18 pounds (4.5-8 kg).
Their lifespan is relatively long, with an average of 10-12 years.
Breed Facts
The breed in question is known for being a relatively small dog, typically weighing between 20-40 pounds.
They have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming, making them a great choice for busy owners.
Their lifespan is around 12-15 years, which is relatively long for a dog of their size.
Their high energy level means they need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy, but they're not suited for long-distance running.
Their intelligence and trainability make them a great breed for first-time dog owners, as they're relatively easy to teach and train.
Their loyalty and affection towards their family is unmatched, but they can be wary of strangers, making socialization a must from an early age.
They are generally good with children, but as with any breed, it's essential to supervise interactions and teach kids how to handle them gently.
Their adaptability to living situations makes them a great choice for city dwellers or those with small backyards.
Their relatively low maintenance needs make them a great choice for those who want a low-fuss pet.
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History
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a rich history that's often intertwined with its cousin, the English Toy Spaniel, also known as the King Charles Spaniel.
The two breeds diverged approximately 100 years ago in the United Kingdom, where the English Toy Spaniel is still called the King Charles Spaniel.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's average weight is between 13 to 18 pounds (5.9 to 8.2 kg), making it slightly larger than the King Charles Spaniel.
In the United States, the King Charles Spaniel is known for one of its colors being called King Charles.
During the 18th century, John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough, kept chestnut and white colored King Charles Spaniels, which were used for hunting.
The Duke recorded that they were able to keep up with a trotting horse, a testament to their agility and endurance.
The Duke's estate was called "Blenheim" after the Battle of Blenheim, and thus, chestnut and white Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and King Charles Spaniels became known as "Blenheim" colored.
The breed's history in the USA is relatively short, with the first recorded Cavalier living in the United States being brought from the United Kingdom in 1956.
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Sources
- The Cavalier Rescue (thecavalierrescue.org)
- Cavalier Rescue USA (cavalierrescueusa.org)
- American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club (ackcsc.org)
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Characteristics & Care (chewy.com)
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - Dog Breeds (petmd.com)
- American Kennel Club (akc.org)
- Dog Breed Info - The Purebred Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (dogbreedinfo.com)
- A-Z Animals - Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (a-z-animals.com)
- WebMD - What to know about Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (webmd.com)
- National Center for Biotechnology Information - PubMed Central - Syringomyelia in the Cavalier King Charles spaniel (CKCS) dog (nih.gov)
- American Kennel Club - Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (akc.org)
- The Kennel Club - Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (thekennelclub.org.uk)
- Animal Corner - Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (animalcorner.org)
- Cavaliers (merriam-webster.com)
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