Frequently asked questions about our
Brunswick Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
We hope this page will answer some of your questions and concerns.
Choosing a Purebred Registered Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy.
They are called ``King of Hearts``. Bred for companionship, this calm little dog with its high body temperature will keep your lap or feet toasty warm on a cold winter night.
We love the little spaniel for its ability to enjoy the outdoors as much as being content snuggled in at your feet. It is gentle and a trustworthy friend for child, senior or someone with special needs. They get along with all types of animals and often are found snuggled up to another house pet.
They are not a guard dog, they may sound the alarm but will be wagging their tail waiting to lick a stranger.
They are easy to train with positive instructions because they have been bred to eagerly comply with their masters wishes.
They are defenseless against bigger dogs and children who rough play. They have no traffic sense. They are easily tempted by the smallest diversion. They require a fenced yard and be on leash when out for a walk to keep them safe. They do not require a lot of exercise daily. Friendly with everyone, they are an easy prey.
Size
They are in the Toy Group. CKC conformation standard is 14 to 18 pounds. Slight variations permissible. Many weigh around 21lbs depending on their height, activity level and diet.
Life Span
Cavaliers may live from 9-15 years. Heath testing is very important to help future generations of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. We believe strongly in this. Keeping your cavalier at a good, healthy weight is important. Yearly check up with your veterinarian and keeping up to date with the immunization protocol for Canada.
Temperament
Fearless and sporting in character, yet gentle and affectionate. They are active, graceful, and happy in spirit. They are easy to train with positive encouragement. They have fun doing obedience, agility, therapy, or just being with the family. The Cavalier King Charles spaniel is the ultimate companion.
Coat
Long, silky, free from curl. Will require a couple of short weekly grooming. Brushing their coat with a small brush or comb while paying special attention to areas that tend to mat. Bathing with a gentle dog shampoo every 1- 2 months is plenty. They shed neither more nor less than other breeds. Their coat comes in four colors. Every one has a favorite color.
Blenheim
Bright chestnut red markings well broken up on a pearly white ground. There may be the lozenge or spot between the ears, unique to the Blenheim, which is a highly desirable characteristic.
Tricolor
Jet black ,markings well broken up on a pearly white ground. Rich tan markings appear over the eyes, on cheeks , inside ears, under the tail.
Ruby
Whole-colored rich chestnut red.
Black and Tan
Jet black with rich tan markings over the eyes, on cheeks and muzzle, inside the ears, on throat and chest, on forelegs from knees to toes.
Health
All our dogs are Heart and Eye Checked by specialists here in the Maritimes.
Followed annually with our local veterinarian.
We DNA test our current dogs and have their patella's checked.
There is a waiting list.
We offer a lifetime support.
Please be fully informed of the health problems common to Cavaliers. Mitral valve disease is common in this breed. There are many Cavaliers now who do not develop this disease at all and many that develop at older ages thanks to close screening from reputable breeders.
Many Cavaliers are born with a Chiari-like malformation and develop Syringomyelia . From mild form of scratching usually around the neck area to severe cases which may cause severe pain and require medications or surgery. There is no cure as of yet. Ethical breeders are very careful to avoid breeding any cavalier that show symptoms of CM/SM.
We as breeders are doing our best to eradicate these serious health issues but at this point we do not know the answers to why this is prevalent in our breed.
There is good information on websites and speak to your veterinarian. We do have some links for you to click on under FAQ/LINKS.