Cavalier King Charles Spaniel temperament, personality, training, behavior, pros and cons, advice, and information, by Michele Welton, Dog Trainer, Behavioral Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books Show Australian Ch. Kahleyvale Colourmyworld (Tilly) Often called a "sporting toy breed" because of his combination of spaniel and toy traits, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is sweet-tempered, playful, and gentle. This comfort-loving breed adores cuddling in laps and snuggling on soft pillows, but he also has more athletic instincts than you might think. Indeed, he can be a runner and chaser. A fenced yard or a leash are musts at all times, because many Cavaliers will pursue squirrels, chipmunks, low-flying birds, even butterflies, right into the street. Cavaliers do need a decent amount of exercise – a couple of long daily walks and definitely a fenced yard in which to run. Otherwise they will become fat and lethargic. Just as importantly, this breed is VERY dependent on human conpanionship. They need companionship most of the day and become stressed when left alone too long. Separation anxiety is a real problem with Cavaliers. , so should have companionship (either human or other pets) most of the day. A Cavalier who is lonely will whine or bark or chew destructively. Most Cavaliers are polite with everyone and peaceful with other dogs and cats. As with all sweet-tempered dogs, there is potential for timidity, so Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies need plenty of early socialization to build a confident, outgoing temperament. Though they do have an independent streak, Cavaliers are soft-tempered dogs who are willing to please. They respond well to cheerful training – as long as they respect you.
A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel may be right for you.
A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel may not be right for you. Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training.
If I was considering a Cavalier, I would be most concerned about...
Do Cavalier King Charles bark a lot?While they're mostly docile and don't bark a lot, they could become destructive and yappy when bored or stressed. Your Cavalier may bark to call your attention to someone at the door, but mostly they're calm and quiet.
Do Cavalier King Charles make good pets?The Cavalier King Charles spaniel is easy to keep. Ideal as a family dog or as a companion for "empty nesters," the Cavalier loves to cuddle and has been described as the perfect lap dog. Although these dogs have a proclivity for noisy greetings, Cavaliers generally are not protective.
Do Cavalier King Charles smell?This, in addition to the fact that they like chasing after small animals means that they can get quite dirty and dusty. As such, if you don't groom your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel regularly, you might soon have a very smelly cute little dog to deal with. This is just one of the reasons Cavaliers smell.
What problems do King Charles spaniels have?Mitral valve disease and syringomyelia are two of the biggest health issues that this breed faces, but with preventative care and medicine, these spaniels can live long and healthy lives.
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