Temperament
Cavaliers are gentle, affectionate and eager to please. They usually love everyone — children, seniors, strangers, other dogs and even cats. They're true companion dogs and want to be near you.
Exercise and energy
Moderate: 30–60 minutes a day. They're happy on the sofa but also enjoy walks and play. Many have a spaniel's urge to chase birds, so keep them leashed.
Grooming
Brush 2–3 times a week to keep the silky coat and ears tangle-free. Check ears regularly. Moderate shedding.
Training
Easy to train with gentle, reward-based methods. They're sensitive and don't respond well to harshness. Prone to separation distress — teach alone time gradually.
Health
Cavaliers have a very high rate of mitral valve disease (MVD), a heart condition that affects most Cavaliers by old age. They're also prone to syringomyelia (a painful neurological condition), eye problems, hip dysplasia and kneecap problems. Choose breeders who follow breed-club heart screening protocols, and ask your vet to listen for heart murmurs at every check-up.
Is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel right for you?
✅ A great match if you…
- Are a first-time owner
- Want an affectionate lap dog that also enjoys walks
- Have kids, seniors or other pets
- Live in an apartment
⛔ Think twice if you…
- Are away most of the day — Cavaliers hate being alone
- Can't afford possible heart-disease treatment
- Want a guard dog
- Want a dog that doesn't shed
Breed traits are general tendencies, not guarantees. Health information is a summary of issues commonly reported in the breed — ask breeders for health-testing results and discuss screening with your veterinarian. Weights and heights are typical adult ranges and vary by line and sex.
