About the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Elegant toy spaniel bred as a lap dog for British royalty. Named after King Charles II who was seldom seen without two or three spaniels. Gentle, affectionate, and adaptable — the quintessential companion dog.
Weight Range
13–18
lbs
Size
🐕 Small Breed
Activity
🚶 Moderate Activity
Lifespan
12-15 years
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Temperament & Personality
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Affectionate
Deeply loving and enjoys physical closeness, cuddles, and bonding with their family.
Gentle
Soft and careful in their interactions — naturally cautious around children and small pets.
Graceful
Moves with fluid elegance — every motion is smooth, coordinated, and beautiful.
Patient
Remarkably tolerant and unhurried — handles children and chaos with calm composure.
Sociable
Naturally social and gregarious — happiest when interacting with people and other pets.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Health & Dietary Needs
Common Health Considerations
Breed-Specific Nutritional Guidance
Nearly all Cavaliers develop mitral valve disease by age 10 — heart-healthy nutrition is critical. Taurine and L-carnitine support cardiac function. Maintain lean weight to reduce cardiac workload.
Estimated Daily Calories for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Based on a typical 16 lb Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with moderate activity level:
496
calories per day
* This is an estimate using the RER formula (70 × weight_kg^0.75 × activity multiplier). Use our calculator below for a precise recommendation based on your dog's exact weight, age, and condition.
Complete Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Feeding Guide
Expert Tips for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Feed 2 meals daily. Keep at lean weight — heart disease is almost universal in this breed and excess weight strains the heart. Omega-3s from fish oil support heart and coat health.
Practical Feeding Guidelines
Meal Frequency
Feed 2-3 small meals per day to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Portion Control
Always measure portions with a kitchen scale or measuring cup. Treats should not exceed 10% of daily calories.
Hydration
Ensure fresh water is always available. A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel needs approximately 8–16 oz of water daily.
Weight Monitoring
Weigh your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel monthly and adjust portions accordingly. Ideal body condition means you can feel (but not see) the ribs.
Get Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's Exact Calorie Needs
Our free calculator uses veterinarian-approved formulas to give you a personalized feeding recommendation based on your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's exact weight, age, activity level, and body condition.
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