| AKC Group: | Toy |
| A.K.A.: | King Charles Spaniel |
| Functions: | Companion |
| Year of Origin: | 1800s |
| Country of Origin: | England |
| Life Span (yr): | 10 - 12 |
| Colors: | Blenheim, King Charles, Ruby, Prince Charles |
| Height (Inch): | 10 - 11 |
| Weight (lb): | 8 - 14 |
| Size: | Small |
| Hair Length: | Long |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: |  |
| Ease of Training: |  |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: |  |
| Grooming: |  |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
The English Toy Spaniel is best known for his flat little face and round head. He has a silky-smooth coat that has fringe on his ears, chest and body. He also has elegant feathering on his legs and feet, giving him a graceful appearance. His eyes are large and typically rich brown or deep black in color. They are gentle and convey his intelligence. His ears are situated low on his head, making them appear even longer than they are. The nose of the English Toy Spaniel is large and is usually pure black. As a toy breed, his body is compressed, yet quite sturdy.
Temperament:
The English Toy Spaniel is a gleeful little dog. He loves to play and is gentle with his family. He is happiest simply sitting on laps and waiting for the next pat on his head. Since he is a small dog, he is naturally skeptical of anyone who approaches him suddenly or with quick movements. Consequently, he is wary of younger children. He is not a demanding dog, but may have a strong will, especially if he is not trained properly. He gets along well with other dogs. However, he may bark at strange people or strange dogs. He can also be finicky about what he eats.
Health:
The English Toy Spaniel’s largest health concern is patellar luxation (a slipped kneecap). They may also face Patent Ductus Arteriosus and Mitral Valve Disease, both can lead to life threatening heart conditions as they age. Occasionally, the English Toy Spaniel has genetic eye disorders, including Retinal Dysplasia, Glaucoma, and Cataracts. Because of the anatomy of their body, he also faces some disc issues in the vertebrae along his back and neck. However, they are usually not debilitating and can be treated with a steroid shot and plenty of rest. The tongue of the English Toy Spaniel can acquire “lazy tongue” where it hangs out of his mouth. If he ever requires surgery or needs to be put under with anesthetics, he should be closely monitored, as his breed may react to the drugs.
Maintenance:
The English Toy Spaniel needs routine brushing to prevent matting and knotting of the areas where his fur is fringed and feathered. If a tangle does occur, the easiest and most pain-free method of removal is to clip it out. A good brushing will also reduce shedding. He does not need special exercise. In fact, by simply playing with him each day, he will get enough exercise. He only needs to be bathed about once a month, especially since he is not an active dog. His ears need to be kept clean to prevent yeast, bacteria and pesky mites from building a home. Because of his long fur and short nose, he is happiest when he is kept inside the home; he is sensitive to smog, pollution, heat, and humidity.