| Height | 12-13 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 13-18 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Affectionate / Gentle / Graceful [1] |
| AKC group | Toy Group [1] |
| Origin | England [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 12 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Although the Cavalier was bred to be a beloved lap dog, he is descended from sporting dogs and does enjoy moderate exercise and outdoor activities. He will happily go on walks with his owner and also performs well in a number of canine sports, but he's just as glad to stay on the sofa all day. Cavaliers should not be allowed off leash because they retain scenting and hunting instincts, and they may not come when called if they've found an interesting trail to follow or a creature to pursue. [1]
Grooming
The Cavalier's lustrous, silky coat requires little more than regular brushing and an occasional bath to keep him in beautiful condition. Brushing not only helps to keep the coat shiny and tangle-free but also serves as a full-body massage that the dog enjoys. grooming sessions enhance the dog-owner bond and provide an opportunity to inspect the dog's whole body for any new or unusual bumps or other issues. [1]
Health issues to budget for
There are several health issues that Cavaliers are prone to. These include certain eye conditions (including retinal problems and cataracts), patella luxation, hip dysplasia, middle ear infections, mitral valve heart disease, and a neurological condition called syringomyelia. Cavaliers can be screened for all these conditions, and most live comfortably into old age. Owners should discuss any potential health issues with their dog's breeder. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation, Cardiac Exam, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel in 1995. [1]
- It ranked No. 12 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 18 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Cavie.” [1]
- The AKC lists England as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC includes it in its “Smallest Dog Breeds, Best Dogs for Apartment Dwellers” breed lists. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 2/5)
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 5/5)
Common questions
How long do Cavalier King Charles Spaniels live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel get?
AKC breed information lists height 12-13 inches and weight 13-18 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.