English King

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a graceful, well-balanced toy spaniel that combines elegance with a sturdy, athletic build ideal for both companionship and moderate activity. Standing 12 to 13 inches at the shoulder and weighing 13 to 18 pounds, this breed is among the largest of the toy dogs while remaining small enough for lap sitting. The body is slightly longer than tall, with a level back and moderate bone that provides substance without heaviness. Despite their small stature, Cavaliers possess the athletic capability of their sporting spaniel ancestors, moving with free and elegant action that reflects their heritage. The head is one of the breed's most captivating features, with a slightly rounded skull and a full muzzle that tapers without being pointed or snipey. Unlike their English Toy Spaniel cousins, Cavaliers have a flatter skull and longer muzzle, creating a different silhouette and avoiding the breathing problems associated with extreme brachycephaly. The large, round eyes are perhaps the breed's most endearing characteristic, set well apart and conveying the gentle, sweet expression that has made these dogs so beloved worldwide. Dark brown in color and remarkably expressive, these luminous eyes communicate the breed's affectionate nature instantly. The long, feathered ears are set high on the head and frame the face beautifully when the dog is attentive. The Cavalier's coat is medium length, silky in texture, and either straight or slightly wavy without excessive curl. Feathering on the ears, chest, legs, and tail adds to the breed's elegant appearance without requiring excessive grooming. Four distinct color patterns are recognized: Blenheim features rich chestnut markings on a pearly white background, often with a prized lozenge spot on the crown; tricolor presents black and white with tan markings; black and tan displays rich black with mahogany tan points; and ruby is a solid, warm reddish-brown throughout. The naturally long tail is carried happily when moving.

The English Toy Spaniel is a compact, cobby toy dog with a distinctive appearance that reflects centuries of selective breeding for royal companionship and lapdog excellence. Standing 9 to 11 inches at the shoulder and weighing 8 to 14 pounds, this breed is smaller and more refined than its Cavalier cousin, with the most desirable specimens falling at the smaller end of the range. The body is essentially square, built on sturdy lines with a level back and well-sprung ribs that provide substance. Despite their small size, English Toy Spaniels possess a solid, well-constructed frame that feels substantial when held. The head is the breed's most distinctive feature, being large in proportion to the body with a characteristically domed skull and a very short, pushed-back nose. This brachycephalic structure gives the breed its unique face, with the nose set between and level with large, dark, lustrous eyes that convey gentleness. The expression is gentle and appealing, with well-cushioned cheeks creating a chubby, endearing appearance that has charmed royalty for centuries. The ears are set low on the head, very long, and covered with heavy feathering that nearly touches the ground. When gently pulled forward, the ears extend well past the nose, creating an elegant frame for the distinctive face. The coat of the English Toy Spaniel is profuse, silky, and either straight or slightly wavy. Heavy fringing adorns the ears, chest, and legs, with flowing feathering on the feet that requires regular grooming to maintain properly. The breed comes in four recognized colors, each with a traditional name: Blenheim displays rich chestnut and white; Prince Charles features tricolor markings of black, white, and tan; King Charles is rich black with mahogany tan points; and Ruby presents a solid reddish-brown throughout. The tail is typically docked to two to four inches in countries where this practice remains legal, adorned with silky feathering.