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Cavalier King Charles Spanie
This is a small-sized Spaniel
which is affectionate and intelligent and a popular choice
with families with young children, but equally popular as a
companion for the elderly.
History:
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
were bred from King Charles Spaniels crossed with Cocker
Spaniels to recreate the Spaniels depicted in paintings of the
1600s by Gainsborough, Rubens, and Rembrandt. The breed was
developed in 1920 and was recognized in Great Britain by 1945,
and then other kennel clubs. King Charles Spaniels are thought
to have originated in China or Japan, and then became a
popular favorite with European royalty. They first appeared in
Great Britain in the 1500s.
Although
popular as a sporting dog, they were often used by the ladies
of the court as comforters and warmers, said to have kept them
warm under their enormous skirts. They were most popular by
the reign of Charles II (1660-85), and his passion for this
breed gave rise to the present name. The Cavalier King Charles
Spaniel was bred from two exhibitors, and went from strength
to strength until 1973, when one became Supreme Champion at
Crufts.
Physical
characteristics:
The Cavalier King Charles
Spaniel is stocky, compact, and has a well-proportioned body.
It is taller than the King Charles Spaniel. Height: 14 in (36
cm). Weight: is 12 - 18 lb (5 - 8 kg). The eyes are large and
round but not prominent or bulging. The head is flat on top
with no dome, and the muzzle is long, with the mouth having a
correct scissor bite and a slight stop. The ears are set high.
If required, the tail could be docked by the breeder. The feet
are round and firm with plenty of padding.
Four
distinct color ranges are seen in the Cavalier King Charles
Spaniels: black with tan markings on the chest, legs and
underside of the tail, above the eyes and inside the ears;
tri-color: black and white broken with tan as above; Blenheim:
rich chestnut markings on a white background; Ruby: a rich
chestnut red wholly covering the dog.
The
coat is long and silky and may have a slight wave, but is not
curly. There is plenty of feathering on the legs, ears and
tail.
Behavior:
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
are generally noble-spirited animals that can have highly
individual characters. Their personalities range from quietly
confident to highly exuberant. Some owners say their Cavalier
King Charles Spaniels can be very excitable. This is because
some display a very enthusiastic greeting when their owner
returns, particularly after a long absence. These dogs are
most anxious to please and if given lots of attention, will
truly delight their owners. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels can
make excellent watch-dogs and enjoy warning their owners of
the slightest disturbance. However, it is wise to harness this
enthusiasm, by training the young dog to respond to sounds of
concern to you.
Cavalier
King Charles Spaniels are normally very sociable dogs, and
owners should resist the temptation to always pick them up.
When young, they should be given the chance to mix with both
large and small, friendly dogs, thereby avoiding an aggressive
fear response in later life. In most cases, the Cavalier King
Charles Spaniel makes a perfect companion and is marvelous
with children.
As
these dogs are incredibly cute to look at, they can be cuddled
and kissed and treated as a toy. Caring owners will provide
their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with plenty of activities
and prevent them from becoming bored. During play, do not
encourage your dog to spin around and chase its delightfully
feathered tail; this can develop into problems later.
The
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's magnificent coat will benefit
from regular brushing.
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