The following is taken from the American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club 2003.
You have decided to share your home and your heart with one of the most gentle and loving of dogs, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. The ultimate companion, your Cavalier will enrich your life beyond measure. His quintessential temperament is that of a happy, devoted toy spaniel - tail wagging, and eager to please.
EARLY HISTORY
Toy spaniels were a part of court life in Europe as early as the fifteenth century, sometimes referred to as "comforter spaniels" as they snuggled on their owner's laps. They were immortalized in the art of Van Dyck, Titian, Stubbs, Landseer, and Gainsborough. But their association with the royal families of England has irrevocably linked their evolution to "that sceptered isle." The unfortunate Mary Queen of Scots and Charles I, Charles II, and the Duke and Duchess of Marlborough - all helped to popularize this charming little dog. However, over the centuries the Cavalier was temporarily supplanted in public affection by the shorter muzzled, domed-headed King Charles Spaniel (a related but separate breed), and the Cavalier's ultimate survival was in some doubt.
In 1925, an American, Roswell Eldridge, became intrigued by the old Cavalier type as seen in many paintings and statues. He offered 25 pounds at the UK Crufts Dog Show in 1926 for winners of Cavalier classes. This was a substantial amount in those times, and breeders accepted the challenge with alacrity. After considerable effort, the Cavalier was saved for posterity, and in 1928 the UK Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club was founded. The first Cavaliers were sent to the USA in 1952. The breed has become increasingly popular, but it was not until 1996 that the Cavalier achieved full recognition by the AKC as the 140th AKC breed. The American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club was established in 1993 and remains the parent club for the Cavalier in this country.
CAVALIER COLOR
Cavaliers come in 4 colors -
Blenheim (chestnut and white)
Tricolor (black, white, and tan)
Ruby (solid chestnut)
Black & Tan
CAVALIER GROOMING
Despite their elegant, silky coats, the Cavalier does not require a great amount of care. Rather, he needs to be brushed out once a week so that "mats" do not form in his hair. A simple "pin" brush or a natural/nylon combination will work quite well. Do remember that the ears need to be kept clear inside so that they don't cause him any discomfort, resulting in scratching and mat formation behind the ear. A sensible amount of bathing in a mild shampoo is advisable, but this does not have to be done weekly. For dogs who are not going into the show ring on a weekly basis, a bath every couple of weeks or so, or even once monthly, will suffice.