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Understanding and Training a King Charles Spaniel

Given the combination of spaniel plus toy dog traits, the King Charles has a perfect balance of sporty & playful, yet gentle & affectionate characteristics. Nurture the breed's lively nature and eagerness to please in training by incorporating gentle obedience in all activities to reinforce desired behaviour. The dog will learn quickly and readily with the steady balance of encouragement.

As with many gentle & sweet-tempered breeds, there is potential for timidity. And, different from the Cavalier version, King Charles Spaniels are typically less friendly to strangers. For a well balanced companion that is capable of living life to the full as a dog and member of the family, ensure your King Charles is accustomed to noises and a variety of people, but respect their preference to be more reserved with people outside the family.

This is not a terribly needy breed, however, are happiest when amongst family. Be

careful, however, not to squash the spirit of your devoted friend by denying human companionship for long periods of time.

Breed Profile

Breed Name: King Charles Spaniel

Domestic Dog Group:

Brief Description:

General Size: 8 - 14 lbs (4 - 6 kg); 25 - 27 cm
General Temperament: Affectionate, Devoted & Obedient
General Description: Affectionate, devoted and responsive to obedience, it is easy to nurture these qualities into a well behaved, playful and adorable, exclusive family companion that is not overly needy.

Breed’s Key Traits

High Med-High Medium Med-Low Low

Requires Experience x

Good Family Dog x

Exercise Required x

Activity Indoors x

Ease of Training x

Sociability with Strangers x

Grooming Requirements x

Brief History

The older cousin of the Cavalier King Charles, with a more distinctive domed skull, shorter nose and smaller build. Although not as popular as the more modern Cavalier version, the King Charles (also known as English Toy Spaniel) is believed to be a common sight around 17th century European palaces based on their presence in many such paintings of the period.