The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the quintessential "lap dog," loved by the English aristocracy for centuries. Beautiful, sweet, calm. But it is also one of the breeds with the most severe documented heart problems in the world.
Origins
An ancient breed, favored by King Charles I and Charles II of England (hence the name). The companion dogs of English ladies in the 17th-18th centuries were the ancient version of the Cavalier.
Appearance
- Weight: 5.4-8.2 kg
- Height: 30-33 cm
- Coat: long, silky
- Colors: Blenheim (white and tan), Tricolor, Ruby, Black and tan
- Life expectancy: 9-13 years (unfortunately limited by heart problems)
Character
- Affectionate: one of the sweetest in the world
- Adaptable: great in an apartment
- Calm: not an active dog
- Social: loves everyone, people, dogs, cats
Exercise Needs
- 30-60 minutes of walking per day
- Suitable for seniors, people with limited mobility
- No intense sports (heart problems exacerbated by exertion)
Health: the serious problem
Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)
Almost all Cavaliers develop mitral dysfunction after 5-6 years. It is the leading cause of death. Symptoms: cough, exercise intolerance, fainting.
Diagnosis: echocardiogram (recommended annually after 5 years).
Treatment: ACE inhibitors, pimobendan, diuretics. No cure, slows progression.
Syringomyelia (SM)
Malformation of the cerebellum + spinal cysts. Symptoms: itching of the head/neck, "scratching" without reason, pain. Confirmed by MRI.
Other problems:
- Hip dysplasia
- Patellar luxation
- cataracts
- Ear infections
In summary
The Cavalier is a sweet companion suitable for those looking for a calm "couch dog." But it is a breed with a serious predisposition to heart issues: owners must be prepared for regular specialist check-ups and, statistically, a shorter than average lifespan. Only purchase from breeders who test the hearts and brains of the parents (MVD and SM screening).
