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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Toy breed from United Kingdom
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small, elegant toy spaniel with a silky, medium-length coat that can be wavy. Known for its large, expressive eyes and noble appearance, this breed is described as affectionate, gentle, friendly, playful, eager to please, and adaptable. It is equally at home as a lap dog or an active companion. The breed's energy level is moderate (3 out of 5), and it is highly trainable (4 out of 5). Grooming needs are above average (4 out of 5), with moderate shedding (3 out of 5). Cavaliers are rated very highly for suitability with children (5 out of 5) and other dogs (4 out of 5), and they are well-suited for apartment living (5 out of 5). Adult males and females typically weigh between 6 and 8 kg and stand 30 to 33 cm tall. Their estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years. Note that these measurements and scores are modelled estimates, and individual dogs may vary.
Quick facts
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel at a glance
Sizesmall
Breed groupToy
OriginUnited Kingdom
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight6–8 kilogram
Female weight6–8 kilogram
Male height30–33 centimetre
Female height30–33 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is named after King Charles II, who is said to have favored the breed. The breed's ancestors are toy spaniels that appear in British court paintings from the 16th to 18th centuries. These early spaniels were depicted with longer noses than some later variations. The modern Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was revived in the 1920s by enthusiasts who aimed to restore the longer-nosed type seen in those old portraits. The breed originated in the United Kingdom and is classified in the Toy group. Its recognition status varies by registry, meaning not all kennel clubs recognize it in the same way. The breed's history is closely tied to British royalty and art, but specific dates of origin or official recognition are not provided in the available facts.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
6–8 kilogramAdult weight30–33 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesMedium, Silky, WavyCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Affectionategentlefriendlyplayfuleager to pleaseadaptable
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
Typically responsive to training
Higher coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Cavalier King Charles Spaniel-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 5
Potential challenges
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Growth chart
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight6–8 kilogramAdult female weight6–8 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?
Based on modelled estimates, adult Cavaliers typically weigh between 6 and 8 kg and stand 30 to 33 cm tall. Their estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years. These figures are estimates and individual dogs may differ.
What is the temperament of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?
The breed is described as affectionate, gentle, friendly, playful, eager to please, and adaptable. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every Cavalier will display all these traits consistently.
How much exercise does a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel need?
The breed has a moderate energy level (scored 3 out of 5). This suggests they need regular but not excessive exercise, such as daily walks and playtime. Specific exercise requirements are not provided, so owners should adjust based on their dog's individual needs.
What are the grooming requirements for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?
Grooming needs are rated 4 out of 5, indicating above-average care. Their coat is medium-length, silky, and can be wavy. They also shed moderately (3 out of 5). Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming are likely needed, but specific grooming routines are not detailed in the facts.
Is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel good for families with children and other pets?
The breed scores 5 out of 5 for child suitability and 4 out of 5 for compatibility with other dogs. This suggests they are generally well-suited for households with children and can get along with other dogs, but individual temperaments vary, and proper introductions are always recommended.
Can a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel live in an apartment?
Yes, the breed scores 5 out of 5 for apartment suitability, indicating they adapt well to smaller living spaces. However, they still need regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Where did the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel originate?
The breed originated in the United Kingdom. It is named after King Charles II, who favored the breed. The modern breed was revived in the 1920s by enthusiasts seeking to restore the longer-nosed type seen in 16th-18th century British court paintings.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.