These quiet companion dogs are usually twelve to thirteen inches tall, and weigh thirteen to eighteen pounds. Characterized by long flowing ears, and large soft eyes, Cavaliers come in four colors: Blenheim (pronounced ble-num; chestnut red and white), tricolor (black and white with tan points), ruby (all red), and black and tan.
This wonderful spaniel can be found in the great works of artists such as Stubbs, Gainsborough, and Reynolds. These wonderful pets were especially enjoyed under the Reign of Charles I and II. It has been written that Charles II would have rather played with his pets than take care of business. There is a lot of great history written about this breed in many good books.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a delightfully affectionate, playful, intelligent little dog that repays his owner's care and attention with an endearing devotion.
A toy breed, they have a natural coat which needs no trimming, long silky ears, and large soulful eyes. In addition to being a fine companion, one of the jobs the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was originally bred to do was to warm laps in drafty castles and on chilly carriage rides. While so many other breeds of dog no longer perform the tasks for which they were bred (pulling milk carts, herding sheep, hunting lions, for example).
Cavaliers still take their responsibility quite seriously. A prescription written in Olde English for the Queen of England directs her to keep a "comforte dog" (now known as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) on her lap to treat a cold. It is almost as if the breed's motto is "so many laps, so little time." Cavaliers take cuddling so seriously that "If you want your pillow you must get there first" is often heard when Cavalier owners gather.
|
