An inherited neurological disorder (syringomyelia) affects at least HALF of all Cavaliers.

No one should acquire a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel unless they can spend lots of money for ongoing heart care by a canine cardiologist. Up to HALF of all Cavaliers will develop heart disease by 5 years of age, and virtually ALL Cavaliers by 10 years of age (if they live that long).

The number-one killer of Cavaliers is inherited heart disease (a rapidly progressive form of mitral valve disease).

This sweet-natured breed, unfortunately, is in serious trouble. This is the biggest drawback – by far – of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. If I was considering a Cavalier, I would be most concerned about. More traits and characteristics of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Finally, you can avoid some negative traits by training your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel to respect you and by following the 11-step care program in my book, 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy.

Unfortunately, you usually can't tell whether a puppy has inherited temperament or health problems until he grows up.

If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy.

With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult Cavaliers have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics.

You can avoid some negative traits by choosing an ADULT dog from an animal shelter or rescue group.

Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding.

Serious health problems and a potentially short lifespanĪ Cavalier King Charles Spaniel may not be right for you.Chasing instincts – needs a fenced yard or leash so he doesn't scamper into the road in pursuit of a fluttering bird (or butterfly!).Timidity and shyness in some lines, or when not socialized enough.'Separation anxiety' (destructiveness and barking) when left alone too much.Is willing to please and responds well to praiseĪ Cavalier King Charles Spaniel may be right for you.Adores comfort, cuddling in laps, and snuggling on soft pillows, yet has more athletic and outdoorsy instincts than you might think.Is small, soft, and attractive, with large expressive eyes and a lovely feathered coat in a variety of striking colors.They respond well to cheerful training – as long as they respect you. Though they do have an independent streak, Cavaliers are soft-tempered dogs who are willing to please. As with all sweet-tempered dogs, there is potential for timidity, so Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies need plenty of early socialization to build a confident, outgoing temperament.

Most Cavaliers are polite with everyone and peaceful with other dogs and cats. A Cavalier who is lonely will whine or bark or chew destructively. , so should have companionship (either human or other pets) most of the day. Separation anxiety is a real problem with Cavaliers. They need companionship most of the day and become stressed when left alone too long. Just as importantly, this breed is VERY dependent on human conpanionship. Otherwise they will become fat and lethargic. A fenced yard or a leash are musts at all times, because many Cavaliers will pursue squirrels, chipmunks, low-flying birds, even butterflies, right into the street.Ĭavaliers do need a decent amount of exercise – a couple of long daily walks and definitely a fenced yard in which to run. This comfort-loving breed adores cuddling in laps and snuggling on soft pillows, but he also has more athletic instincts than you might think. Often called a 'sporting toy breed' because of his combination of spaniel and toy traits, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is sweet-tempered, playful, and gentle. Home > Dog Breed Reviews > Cavalier King Charles SpanielĪustralian Ch. Dog Quest – Find The Dog Of Your Dreams.11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy.See All of Michele's Best-Selling Dog Books.

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