Overview & Temperament
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was bred as a companion dog for royalty and nobility, which explains its deeply affectionate and people-oriented nature.
In Indian homes, Cavaliers are ideal indoor pets that bond closely with their families. They are sensitive dogs and thrive in calm, loving environments with adequate grooming and climate control.
Personality Traits
- Exceptionally affectionate and loving
- Gentle and patient with children
- Very social with people and pets
- Sensitive to loneliness
- Calm and emotionally intuitive
Energy & Activity
- Low to moderate daily energy needs
- Enjoys short walks and playtime
- Happy lounging indoors
- Not hyperactive
- Needs companionship more than exercise
Living Conditions in India
Climate Considerations
Cavaliers are sensitive to heat and humidity due to long coat and small size.
- • Ideal temperature: 15°-24°C
- • Summer care: AC strongly recommended, avoid outdoor activity during daytime
- • Hydration: Fresh water available 24/7
- • Best cities: Bangalore, Pune, hill stations; challenging in very hot cities
Ideal Living Situation
- ✓ Apartments
- ✓ Calm family homes
- ✓ Homes with elderly members
- ✓ Indoor living environments
- ✓ Owners working from home
Challenging Situations
- ✗ Outdoor-only living
- ✗ Hot homes without AC
- ✗ Very noisy or chaotic households
- ✗ Owners away for long hours
- ✗ Rough handling by children
Daily Exercise Requirements
Tailstart Tip: Cavaliers need gentle daily activity but should not be over-exercised.
Cost of Owning a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Initial Purchase Cost
High cost due to limited availability and lineage quality.
Monthly Expenses
Medical costs can increase due to breed-specific heart conditions.
Food & Nutrition
Ideal Nutrition Balance
Feeding Guidelines
3 meals/day, 180-250g total
2 meals/day, 220-300g total
2 meals/day, 200-260g total
Best Food Options in India
- Royal Canin Small Breed
- Farmina N&D
- Drools Focus Small Breed
- Balanced home-cooked meals
Foods to Avoid
Health & Lifespan
Expected Lifespan
Cavaliers can live long lives with regular heart monitoring and good care.
Indian climate note: Heat stress can worsen cardiac and respiratory issues.
Common Health Conditions
Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)
Common heart condition in Cavaliers
Prevention: Regular cardiac checkups, responsible breeding
Syringomyelia
Neurological condition affecting the spine and brain
Prevention: Ethical breeding, early diagnosis
Ear Infections
Long ears trap moisture
Prevention: Weekly ear cleaning
Recommended Vet Care Schedule
Daily Care Routine
Grooming Requirements
Regular Tasks
Prevents matting and keeps coat silky.
Essential to prevent infections.
Use mild dog shampoo.
Professional Grooming
Every 6-8 weeks
Full grooming session with professional
Services include:
Full grooming, ear cleaning, nail trim
Tailstart Grooming: Regular professional grooming improves comfort in warm climates.
Exercise Routine
40-50 min
Total daily exercise
2 walks
Per day minimum
Low to Moderate
Running, swimming, fetch
Ideal Activities
Training & Mental Stimulation
Why Training is Essential
Cavaliers are eager to please and easy to train with positive reinforcement.
Basic Commands (3-6 months)
- Sit, Stay, Come
- Leash walking
Mental Stimulation Ideas
- Puzzle toys
- Learning tricks
- Gentle games
Training Tip
Gentle, reward-based training works best. Avoid harsh methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
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