History of the Breed

Today two related breeds exists - King Charles Spaniel and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Although their relationship there are differences between them not only in exterior, but mainly in character.
Both breeds have the origin in England, where the breed standard was recognized, drawn up and later on from there the breed spread all over the world.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel of today is descended from the small Toy Spaniels of England seen in many of the 16th century paintings. They were given the royal title of King Charles Spaniels and history tells us that King Charles II was seldom seen without two or three at his heels. So fond was King Charles II of his little dogs, that about 1630 he wrote a decree that the King Charles Spaniel should be accepted in any public place, even in the Houses of Parliament where animals were not usually allowed. This decree is still in existence today in England. The original colour variety was black and tan, later on the following colours were developed in breed: tricolor, blenheim and ruby. The favourite colour of England is blenheim – with rich chestnut markings on a pearly white ground. This variety was bred at Blenheim Palace by Dukes of Marlborough. During 17 century the breed of King Charles Spaniel arosed and later on the origin form almost disapeared. In 1926 at Crufts Dog Show were seen slightly long faced dogs called today Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

"Kings" are smaller ( weight in between 3,6 - 6,3 kg), they are more health sensitive , they have rounded head with the very short face, down set ears and human similar face. They are refined, gentle and they love comfort. As for the character they are typical introverts fixed typically for one person.
"Cavaliers" are slightly bigger (weight in between 6 - 8,5 kg). Their appearance is very attractive. Remarkable is first of all their beautiful head with the flat and high placed ears set high on top of the head, the short very lovely nose and splendid large and round dark brown eyes giving a lustrous, limpid look. Due their size they can be taken to any place and to your arms without any troubles. Nevertheless this dog is big enough not to be passed by. With this size about 30 cm heigh they are destined for being the permanent human companion in the flat and in nature. Cavalier desires to be all the time with you. He is happy to make a joy with his presence.
Cavaliers are extraordinary good combination of temperament, active, elegant dog, with sport characteristic and just the same matching to the interiors. They are patient with well balanced character, anytime ready to go out for a long walk.As per own experience we can confirm that healthy Cavalier is able and mainly willing to go through more harder mountain tours. We spent our vacation in Low Tatras with 3 Cavaliers and they were very happy to accompany us allways whole days.