Cavaliers King Charles
Spaniels are toy spaniels with a sweet and loving personality who are
eager to please their owners. They are an ideal pet because they are
such a versatile dog. They are happy to sportily chase balls,
butterflies and bunnies but are equally happy to lounge on the sofa
watching T.V. next to their owners. Cavaliers were bred to be companions
for people, they desire a lot of attention from their owners. Make sure
you have the time to devote to your Cavalier pet.
If you have carefully
researched the breed and decided that Cavaliers are the dog for you,
make sure you obtain you puppy from a reputable breeder. Never buy a
puppy from a pet store, as these puppies are usually obtained from a
'puppy mill'. A reputable breeder is always trying to improve the breed
as defined by the AKC Cavalier King Charles
Spaniel Standard. You can find reputable breeders on the American
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club, as well as regional Cavalier King
Charles Spaniel Club's websites. Their location is available on our web
links page.
A reputable
breeder will screen their dogs for health problems that are specific to
cavaliers. One of the health problems that cavaliers face is Mitral
Valve Disease. Yearly heart screening from a veterinary cardiologist is
important in a breeding program to ensure that only healthy, unaffected
dogs, are used. Other important health testing includes OFA screening
for hips and patellas as well as eye exams by a certified
ophthalmologist for any possible eye problems.
