WHAT IS THE AVERAGE SIZE OF A CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL?

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Weight

There is no noticeable difference between male and female Cavaliers. In adulthood, these dogs weigh between 5.4 and 8kg. This is a particularly lightweight dog breed, which makes it easy to travel with. On the train, for example, your dog will have no problem sitting on your lap, in a small bag or cage. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels experience rapid growth until their 7th or 8th month, when the curve slows. By this point, a Cav will have reached about ⅔ of its adult size, so it’s possible to estimate its adult weight.

Keep an eye on the weight of your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These doggies have a greedy side that could quickly become an issue. If your dog is overweight or obese, their life expectancy will suffer. So go lightly on the treats and be sure to walk your little furball regularly.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Size

Again, there is no difference between males and females. Adult Cavalier King Charles Spaniels measure between 30 and 33cm at the withers. Your choice of puppy should therefore be made according to your personal preferences and the personality of the animal. Don’t hesitate to ask your breeder for advice.

Growth is a delicate period in all young dogs, no matter the size or breed. It’s important to avoid putting too much stress on your dog’s joints to prevent the onset of joint disorders such as hip dysplasia. Don't let your Cavalier run up the stairs, for example, and avoid overly intense or boisterous play sessions.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Colours

The Cavalier King Charles has a beautiful long, silky, and sometimes wavy coat. The coat is well-feathered, and four colours are accepted by the breed standard:

• Blenheim (chestnut and white): Pearly white base with rich chestnut markings evenly distributed on the fur, leaving room between the ears for a highly valued lozenge-shaped spot (a unique characteristic of the breed). This colourway has a unique history. As legend would have it, while awaiting news of her husband the Duke’s safe return from the Battle of Blenheim, Sarah Churchill, Duchess of Marlborough, rubbed her thumb on the skull of a pregnant female Cavalier King Charles Spaniel as she held it in her lap. A few days later, after news arrived that the battle had been won, the bitch gave birth to five puppies bearing a red mark where the Duchess had rubbed her thumb. This lucky mark is called the "Blenheim spot" or the "Duchess Thumb Print".

• Black and Tan: Raven black with tan markings on the eyes, cheeks, ears, chest, limbs, and tail. The tan markings should be bright in colour. White marks are considered undesirable.

• Tricolour (black, white, and tan): Black and white well spaced with tan markings on the eyes, cheeks, ears, legs, and underside of the tail.

• Ruby: The dog's fur is a rich shade of red all over. White marks are considered undesirable.