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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: temperament, health and care
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this dog suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Small, about 5.5–8 kg |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 9–14 years |
| Exercise | Moderate |
| Grooming | Silky coat: brush a few times a week |
Temperament and who it suits
Gentle, affectionate and adaptable.
Often suits: families and older owners who want a companion dog.
The breed has high rates of inherited heart disease and a painful condition called syringomyelia, so ask about the parents' heart and MRI screening.
Health problems to know about
- Mitral valve heart disease
- Syringomyelia
- Eye problems
- Hip dysplasia
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- See the puppy with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped and registered by eight weeks old
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have dogs of this breed looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to dogs for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel live?
A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel typically lives 9–14 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel need?
Moderate.
What health problems are common in a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?
Common concerns include mitral valve heart disease, syringomyelia, eye problems and hip dysplasia. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel need?
Silky coat: brush a few times a week.
Who does a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel suit?
It often suits families and older owners who want a companion dog. The breed has high rates of inherited heart disease and a painful condition called syringomyelia, so ask about the parents' heart and MRI screening.
Similar dogs
Sources
- The Royal Kennel Club: breed information and health schemes
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council: Lucy's Law
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.