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Quick Stats About the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Height 12–13 inches

Weight 13–18 lbs

Lifespan 12–15 years

Energy level Moderate

Shedding Moderate

Grooming Moderate (regular brushing recommended)
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Get StartedCavalier King Charles Spaniel: Everything You Need to Know


The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the epitome of charm, companionship, and elegance. This small but sturdy breed has won hearts for centuries with its sweet expression, silky coat, and gentle temperament. Originally bred as a lapdog for royalty, Cavaliers are equally at home cuddling on the couch or trotting alongside their owners on walks. Their friendly nature makes them excellent companions for families, singles, and seniors alike.Despite their regal background, Cavaliers are down-to-earth dogs who get along well with children, other pets, and even strangers. They’re highly adaptable and can thrive in both city apartments and country homes, as long as they’re close to their people. While they enjoy playtime and daily walks, they’re not overly demanding when it comes to exercise. However, their affectionate personality and tendency to follow their owners everywhere make them prone to separation anxiety if left alone too long. Cavaliers are also known for being food-motivated, which can make training a breeze — but it also means portion control and diet quality are crucial to prevent weight gain. This breed is prone to certain health conditions such as mitral valve disease and syringomyelia, making preventive care, including nutrition, especially important. A well-balanced, fresh diet tailored to their size, age, and health needs can support longevity and quality of life. Whether you’re welcoming a playful Cavalier puppy or caring for a senior dog who’s been by your side for years, understanding this breed’s needs is key to helping them thrive.
Create the Perfect Meal Plan for Your Cavalier King Charles SpanielCharacteristics and Care
Appearance
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a graceful, small-breed dog known for its expressive, dark round eyes and feathered ears that frame a sweet, gentle face. Their long, silky coat comes in four recognized color patterns: Blenheim (chestnut and white), tricolor (black, white, and tan), ruby (solid red), and black and tan. Despite their royal looks, Cavaliers have a sturdy and athletic build, allowing them to enjoy more physical activity than you might expect from a lapdog.
Temperament
Cavaliers are affectionate, gentle, and incredibly people-oriented. They thrive on companionship and are happiest when they're near their family. Their friendly and adaptable nature makes them excellent with children and other pets, and their eager-to-please attitude makes them a joy to have around. While they’re playful and curious, they’re also more than content to curl up beside you for a quiet afternoon nap. Their calm disposition and lack of aggression also make them a popular choice for therapy and emotional support roles.
Grooming
Cavalier coats are long and soft, and while they don’t require trimming, they do benefit from regular brushing — ideally 3–4 times per week — to prevent tangles and mats. Their ears, chest, and tail feathers can be prone to knotting, and their long ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection. Routine bathing, nail trimming, and dental care are also important to maintain overall health and hygiene.
Training & Exercise
Cavaliers are intelligent and responsive, which makes training relatively easy — especially when positive reinforcement (and a few tasty treats) are involved. They’re naturally sociable and don’t tend toward stubbornness, so even first-time dog owners find them manageable. In terms of exercise, Cavaliers enjoy daily walks, light play sessions, and short bursts of activity. Though they’re not high-energy dogs, they do need regular movement to maintain a healthy weight and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
What Makes a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel UniqueÂ
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel combines the best of two worlds: the gentle charm of a toy breed and the athleticism of a sporting dog. Their loving, people-centric personality makes them one of the most affectionate companion dogs you can find. Unlike many small breeds, Cavaliers are highly adaptable — just as happy on a quiet lap as they are on an active walk or outdoor adventure. They’re known for their expressive eyes, which seem to understand emotion, and their natural ability to comfort those around them. This breed’s unique blend of elegance and ease-going temperament makes them an ideal choice for first-time dog owners and families alike. They are also distinct in their strong attachment to their people — they don’t just love you, they need you, and that emotional sensitivity makes them excellent therapy dogs. Physically, their long, feathery coat and silky ears set them apart, while their heart-shaped personalities leave a lasting impression. Cavaliers also have specific health predispositions — particularly heart issues — that make nutrition and preventive care incredibly important. A diet tailored to support heart function, joint health, and maintaining a healthy weight can make a major difference in their longevity and comfort.
Create a Meal Plan That Caters to Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's Unique Needs

Health Considerations for Cavalier King Charles SpanielsÂ
Like all breeds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have unique health needs that require attention and care. While they’re generally loving and resilient companions, their genetics can predispose them to certain conditions. Being aware of these issues early on allows pet parents to take proactive steps — including choosing the right diet — to help their Cavaliers live longer, healthier lives. From heart health to maintaining a healthy weight, nutrition plays a key role in managing and even preventing common breed-specific concerns.
Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)
MVD is the most common health issue in Cavaliers and often develops with age, sometimes as early as five years old. It’s a progressive heart condition where the mitral valve deteriorates, leading to inefficient blood flow and eventual heart failure if unmanaged. Early symptoms can include coughing, decreased stamina, or labored breathing. While regular veterinary checkups are critical, diet also plays a role in supporting heart function. Nutrients like taurine, omega-3 fatty acids, and L-carnitine are beneficial for heart health. Choosing a diet that includes these naturally or supplements them appropriately can help support your Cavalier’s cardiovascular system.
Obesity
Because Cavaliers are small and food-motivated, it doesn’t take much for them to gain excess weight. Carrying extra pounds can worsen conditions like joint issues and heart disease and reduce your dog’s overall energy and quality of life. Their affectionate nature often leads to overfeeding or excessive treats, especially when they give those irresistible “puppy eyes.” Monitoring calorie intake and ensuring proper portion sizes is essential. A fresh food diet that’s pre-portioned and balanced can help avoid unintentional overfeeding. Exercise paired with controlled, nutritious meals keeps your Cavalier at a healthy weight.
Syringomyelia (SM)
Syringomyelia is a neurological condition that affects some Cavaliers due to skull malformation, leading to fluid-filled cavities within the spinal cord. Symptoms can range from mild sensitivity and head scratching to more severe signs like pain or difficulty walking. While there is no dietary cure, proper weight management and anti-inflammatory nutrients can help reduce pressure and discomfort. Feeding your Cavalier an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants may support overall neurological health. Early diagnosis and a tailored care plan — including nutritional support — can greatly improve quality of life. Always consult your vet if your Cavalier shows signs of discomfort or unusual behaviors.
Hip Dysplasia and Joint Issues
Though more common in larger breeds, Cavaliers can also suffer from joint problems such as hip dysplasia or luxating patellas. These conditions can affect their mobility and lead to discomfort, especially as they age or if they are overweight. Supporting joint health through diet is one way to help prevent or slow the progression of these issues. Ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s may help reduce inflammation and support cartilage health. A fresh food plan tailored to your dog’s weight, activity level, and age can also reduce unnecessary strain on joints. Regular low-impact exercise like walking and swimming further supports joint mobility.


Nutrition for Every Stage and Need
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels thrive on high-quality, balanced nutrition that supports their unique size, temperament, and health concerns. Whether you’re caring for a curious puppy, an active adult, or a senior in need of extra support, tailored nutrition makes all the difference. NutriCanine’s personalized fresh food meal plans are designed to meet your Cavalier’s needs at every life stage — and for every challenge.

Growing Cavaliers need a diet that fuels their development without overloading their small frames. Puppyhood is a critical time for bone development, organ growth, and immune system support. A high-quality diet with adequate protein, DHA, and calcium helps puppies build strong muscles and cognitive function. Fresh food made with real meat and vegetables offers easily digestible energy and avoids fillers that can upset sensitive stomachs. Pre-portioned meals also make it easier to manage their rapid growth and avoid overfeeding. With the right foundation, your Cavalier puppy can grow into a strong, happy adult.

Adult Cavaliers need consistent, balanced nutrition to maintain a healthy weight, support their heart, and sustain energy for play and companionship. Real, lean protein helps preserve muscle mass, while whole foods like sweet potatoes and spinach offer valuable fiber and antioxidants. Because Cavaliers can be prone to heart conditions, nutrients like taurine and omega-3s are especially important in their adult years. Fresh food plans that eliminate artificial additives and use human-grade ingredients can also reduce inflammation and digestive issues. Daily portion control is key, as it’s easy for small dogs to gain weight unnoticed. With a well-rounded diet, adult Cavaliers remain vibrant, affectionate, and full of life.

As Cavaliers age, they often face reduced mobility, slower metabolisms, and increased risk of chronic conditions like mitral valve disease or arthritis. Senior dogs benefit from diets lower in calories but rich in joint-supportive ingredients like glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids. Antioxidants from fresh vegetables help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Fiber becomes even more important for digestive health, while lean protein helps preserve muscle mass without putting strain on their heart. Soft, fresh meals are easier to chew and digest than dry kibble. With personalized adjustments for age and health status, senior Cavaliers can enjoy comfort and quality of life well into their golden years.

Weight gain is a common issue in Cavaliers, often due to their love for food and sedentary tendencies. Excess weight can strain their joints and worsen heart conditions, so addressing it early is essential. A customized fresh food plan helps reduce calories without sacrificing nutrition or taste. Meals rich in protein and fiber promote satiety, keeping your dog full longer between meals. Ingredients like lean turkey, green beans, and squash support weight loss naturally and gently. NutriCanine’s pre-portioned servings take the guesswork out of feeding, helping your dog safely reach and maintain their ideal weight.

Some Cavaliers suffer from food sensitivities that cause digestive upset, itching, or chronic discomfort. A limited-ingredient, fresh food diet made from whole, recognizable ingredients can be a game-changer. Eliminating common allergens like chicken, corn, or wheat and focusing on novel proteins or simple recipes helps identify triggers. NutriCanine offers single-protein options like beef, turkey, or lamb to reduce the risk of reactions. The absence of preservatives, fillers, and artificial additives also promotes healthier digestion and skin. With a gentle, gut-friendly approach to feeding, sensitive Cavaliers can feel better from the inside out.
Give Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel the Nutrition They DeserveÂ
Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel brings so much love, loyalty, and joy into your life — they deserve a diet that supports them at every stage. NutriCanine’s personalized fresh food meal plans are crafted with real, human-grade ingredients and tailored to meet your dog’s individual needs. Whether you're managing sensitive digestion, supporting heart health, or simply looking to nourish your dog with the best, our meals deliver balanced nutrition backed by veterinary science. With no fillers, artificial preservatives, or guesswork, you can feel confident in every bite your Cavalier takes. Healthier meals mean more tail wags, more energy, and more years together. Give your best friend the fresh start they deserve.
Everything You Need For a New Puppy | All the Essentials!
Ready to Provide the Best Nutrition for Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?Â
NutriCanine’s personalized meal plans are designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Our fresh, high-quality ingredients ensure your dog gets the best possible nutrition. Start your journey to better health and happiness for your Cavalier today.
Our Gently Cooked RecipesÂ
- Guided by science
- Made fresh daily
Our recipes, developed by an agronomist, are nutrient-rich, delicious, and complete and balanced, meeting AAFCO guidelines.

Chicken Recipe
Bowl lickin' good - bet we don’t keep our recipe a secret! For healthier skin and coat with nutrient-dense broccoli and carrots.
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Turkey Recipe
Just like your Thanksgiving meal, but specially designed for your dog. For improved digestibility, enhanced by superfood kale and butternut squash.
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Beef Recipe
Perfect for the pickiest eaters and gluten-sensitive dogs with highly digestible rice and antioxidant-rich berries.
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Lamb Recipe
Designed for dogs with allergies and sensitivities, enriched by nutrient-packed green beans and carrots.
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