Fetch Finder
At a glance
| Energy level | |
|---|---|
| Shedding | |
| Grooming needs | |
| Apartment-friendly | |
| Handles cold | |
| Affectionate / cuddly | |
| Good with kids | |
| Good for first-time owners | |
| Easy to train | |
| Good with other dogs | |
| Good with cats | |
| OK being left alone | |
| Reliable off-leash | |
| Protective / watchdog | |
| Barking | |
| Drooling |
Great for
- First-time owners
- Apartments
- Families and seniors
Watch out for
- Heart disease (mitral valve) is common; ask breeders about heart testing
- Doesn't like being left alone for long
- Not a guard dog
Daily care
Exercise: 30–45 minutes a day.
Grooming: Brush a few times a week; keep ears clean.
Cold weather: Needs a sweater or coat for long walks in cold winters.
*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.
Gear for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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- FoodSmall breed dog food
Formulas made for small breeds match their energy needs and kibble size. Look for "complete and balanced" (AAFCO) on the bag, and ask your vet what's right for your dog.
See options on Amazon - Crate24-inch dog crate
A 24" crate fits most adult Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (up to about 18 lb). Choose one with a divider so it grows with a puppy.
See options on Amazon - HarnessFront-clip harness
Flat-faced breeds breathe more easily in a harness than a collar that presses on the throat.
See options on Amazon - ToysPuzzle and snuffle toys
Food puzzles keep a calmer dog's mind busy without a lot of running.
See options on Amazon - GroomingBristle or rubber grooming brush
A quick weekly brush keeps the coat clean and shiny.
See options on Amazon - WinterInsulated dog coat and boots
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels get cold quickly; a coat and boots make winter walks safer.
See options on Amazon - BedWashable dog bed
A washable cover makes life easier, especially with a puppy.
See options on Amazon
Find a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel near you
We're building a list of trusted Cavalier King Charles Spaniel rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.
Listings coming soon. In the meantime:
- Search adoptable dogs near you on Petfinder
- AKC's Cavalier King Charles Spaniel page, which links to breed club rescue networks
Run a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.
Not sure a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.
Take the breed quizSimilar breeds
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Small · 20–30 lb👪 Great family dogBeagleCheerful, curious and great with kids. Beagles are a manageable size but follow their nose everywhere and are known for howling.