The Ultimutt Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Handbook

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small, elegant breed with long, silky fur and a well-known fondness for human company. This distinctly British dog was named after King Charles II, who was famously devoted to the breed. Dating back to the 16th century, Cavaliers were adored by the nobility and frequently featured in portraits alongside aristocratic families, reinforcing their royal image.

Despite their regal roots, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was primarily bred as a companion dog, a role they continue to fulfil wonderfully today. Their affectionate nature and intuitive connection to their owners have made them beloved family pets around the world.

Cavaliers are known for their affectionate and sociable personalities. They thrive on human interaction and are happiest when close to their family. One of their most recognisable behaviours is following their owner from room to room, often seeking physical contact or a cosy lap to curl up on.

Despite their aristocratic background, Cavaliers are not aloof. They’re playful, gentle, and enjoy being included in family life. They get along well with children, other dogs, and even cats, making them excellent choices for multi-pet households.

Comfort is key for these little spaniels—they adore warm, soft spots and are often found snuggled into cushions or blankets. Providing cosy spaces around the home will keep your Cavalier content and relaxed.

While they are generally affectionate and hardy dogs, Cavaliers are predisposed to a number of health conditions:

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are moderately active and enjoy regular, but not excessive, exercise. A couple of short walks each day, along with some indoor play, are usually enough to keep them fit and happy. They’re ideal for owners who want a walking companion without the intensity of a high-energy breed.

They particularly enjoy interactive games such as fetch or gentle tug-of-war, especially when played with their favourite humans. It’s important to balance their food intake with activity to help avoid weight gain, which can worsen joint and heart issues.

While not as energetic as working breeds, Cavaliers still benefit from mental stimulation. Puzzle toys, short training sessions, and gentle enrichment activities help keep their minds sharp and prevent boredom.

The Cavalier’s luxurious coat requires consistent care to stay soft and tangle-free. Brushing two to three times per week helps prevent mats, particularly around the ears, chest, and legs.

Their floppy ears need extra attention to avoid the build-up of wax and moisture, which can lead to infections. Bathing every few weeks helps keep their coat clean and shiny, especially if they’ve been playing outdoors.

Like all small breeds, Cavaliers are prone to dental problems, so regular tooth brushing is essential. Keep their nails trimmed to avoid discomfort and ensure they can walk comfortably.

To stay healthy and avoid weight gain, Cavaliers need a balanced diet suited to small breeds. High-quality dog food rich in protein, fibre, and essential nutrients supports their overall health and energy levels.

Portion control is key—Cavaliers love their food and can easily become overweight if overfed. Extra weight puts pressure on their joints and can make existing health conditions, such as heart problems, worse. Stick to measured meals and limit treats.

Fresh water should always be available, and treats should be given sparingly, especially during training. Human food should be avoided, as it can upset their stomachs and contribute to weight issues.