The history of the Cavalier breed

Toy spaniels have featured since the 15th century in the Courts of Europe, and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel became popular during the reign of Charles II in the 17th century and was named in recognition of the Cavaliers who supported him.

Late in the 17th century the Cavalier Spaniel’s appearance changed when it was interbred with flat-nosed breeds.

In 1926 a dog show class prize was offered by an American Rosswell Eldridge for the best Blenheim of the ‘old Charles II’ type as it was his dream to have the Cavalier breed standard revert to the longer nose of that era.

In 1926 a dog show class prize was offered by an American Rosswell Eldridge for the best Blenheim of the ‘old Charles II’ type as it was his dream to have the Cavalier breed standard revert to the longer nose of that era.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the King Charles Spaniel are often confused, however they are two different breeds. The King Charles Spaniel has, among other differences, a domed head compared with the Cavalier’s flatter head, and the King Charles has a flat nose compared with the longer nose of the Cavalier.

Originally bred as lapdogs and companions for the aristocracy, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels became known for their affectionate nature and charming appearance.