Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Possess Many Great Traits

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By Scott Wilson


Part of why dogs are man's best friend is because they give unconditional companionship, loyalty, and love. They can be so many varied shapes, colors, and sizes, with a range of different skills, traits, and temperaments, that make each individual breed uniquely special. Many people find the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel a great choice due to the bevy of attractive qualities they possess.

In the latter part of the 1600's KCS were bred with Pugs in the attempt to get a small dog with upturned faces, flattened noses, round heads, and protruding eyes. By the 1920's American breeders took on the quest to breed a longer nose, which is the look they are known for today. They received their own purebred classification in the 1940's but it was not until 1996 that the American Kennel Club allowed them to be shown in the Toy category.

Classified as Toy, this breed has an average lifespan of approximately 9-14 years, achieving about 18lbs and 13 inches when full matured. Their bodies are quite well proportioned, having a level top line and features such as large dark brown eyes, scissor-like teeth, ears that are long and high-set, and an uncut tail. There is natural feathering in the tail, leg, ear, and chest ares of their coats.

There are four basic coat categories: Black and Tan, Ruby, Tricolor, and Blenheim. Shedding is average and can be controlled by daily brushing - which also minimizes matting - though owners need to be prepared to vacuum their homes regularly. It is only necessary to bath them when obviously needed, but the dog must be completely dried and kept warm afterwards.

Dogs of this breed are among the easiest to care for, making them a great choice for a first pet or as a companion for an elderly person. They came from a hunters so they are naturally great, obedient listeners who seek to be controlled and actually desire input and limitations. As they are intelligent, they have no problem understanding what is expected of them and tend to be highly responsive to commands.

One thing pet owners need to be careful to avoid is the tendency to be extremely lenient with their pups because of their tiny stature and cuteness. Failing to set rules and limits with a breed that is naturally inclined to follow a leader can lead to the onset of a condition known as Small Dog Syndrome. Essentially, it means the family is viewed as a pack, and if the human does not take the Alpha role, the pup will assume it, leading to uncharacteristic demanding, even somewhat aggressive behaviors.

Socialization and obedience training need to be instituted as young as is feasible so that the dog grows up knowing its pack placement and not being afraid of strangers. This breed is easily adaptable to apartment living and small yards, though they do not do well being kept in a kennel or left alone for long periods of time. Daily walks and regular playtime helps curtail excess energy.

This type of dog is a great choice for those individuals who want companionship but need a pet that is naturally well behaved. It is highly recommended one take time to learn the quirks and characteristics of a breed before deciding to adopt, to ensure compatibility.




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