Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Hip dysplasia is a known condition in the breed - watch for any signs of mobility or joint problems.^[1]

Hereditary eye issues such as cataracts and retinal dysplasia are health concerns associated with this breed.^[1]

Cavaliers can be prone to ear problems, a common issue among spaniels generally.^[1]

Certain hearing disorders are listed as known health problems for this breed.^[1]

Because all modern Cavaliers descend from only six dogs, inherited diseases can spread widely through the breed - choosing a responsible breeder matters.^[1]

Cavaliers are highly prone to mitral valve disease, the most common cause of death in the breed - watch for any signs of heart trouble.^[1]

Syringomyelia, a potentially severely painful condition, is a known genetic health problem in this breed to be aware of.^[1]

Luxating patellas (kneecaps that slip out of place) are a recognised health issue in Cavaliers.^[1]

Luxating patellas (kneecaps that slip out of place) are a known health problem in this breed.^[1]

Ear problems are a common health issue for Cavaliers, as they are for spaniels generally.^[1]

Hereditary eye issues such as cataracts and retinal dysplasia are known health concerns for this breed.^[1]

The breed has a relatively limited gene pool due to descending from only six dogs, making inherited conditions more likely to appear.^[1]

The breed's lifespan is generally between 8 and 12 years, and studies suggest Cavaliers may have a shorter life expectancy than crossbreeds.^[1]

Mitral valve disease is very common in this breed and is the most common cause of death - watch for any signs of heart trouble.^[1]

Hip dysplasia is a condition Cavaliers can be prone to, though it is also common across many other breeds.^[1]

Syringomyelia, described as potentially severely painful, is a serious genetic condition known to affect Cavaliers.^[1]

Cavaliers are highly affectionate, playful and eager to please, making them easy and rewarding to handle for most pet professionals.^[1]

They are good with children and other dogs of all sizes, including larger breeds, so group walks or multi-dog environments are generally fine.^[1]

They treat strangers as friends, so expect a warm, sociable greeting rather than wariness or aggression toward new handlers.^[1]

The breed is adaptable in exercise needs - equally happy with a long walk or a quiet cuddle, so suit a flexible daily routine.^[1]

They have a strong instinct to chase moving things including vehicles, so always keep them on a lead near roads.^[1]

Spaniels have a hunting instinct and may chase birds or small animals, so supervise carefully around small pets.^[1]

The coat needs weekly brushing but no trimming; pay attention to feathering on ears, feet and legs which picks up dirt on walks.^[1]

They are naturally curious and playful but also love to curl up on a lap, making them calm and settled during quiet handling or grooming sessions.^[1]

The breed is adaptable - equally happy with a quiet cuddle on the sofa or a long walk, so match activity level to the individual dog on the day.^[1]

They have a strong instinct to chase moving things, including vehicles, so always keep them on a lead near roads.^[1]

Spaniels have a hunting instinct and may chase birds or small animals, so supervise carefully in environments where these are present.^[1]

The coat needs weekly brushing but no trimming; pay attention to feathering on ears, feet, legs and tail, which can pick up dirt outdoors.^[1]

They are naturally curious and playful, so mental engagement and gentle interaction during handling will keep them settled and cooperative.^[1]

They are good with children and other dogs of all sizes, including larger breeds, so group walks or multi-dog settings are generally fine.^[1]