English Toy Spaniel
The English Toy Spaniel is described by the AKC as intelligent, playful, gentle, a member of the Toy Group, originally from England.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 9-10 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 8-14 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 10–12+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Intelligent / Playful / Gentle [1] |
| AKC group | Toy Group [1] |
| Origin | England [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 134 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
English Toy Spaniels are moderately active'¿when outdoors exercising they are alert, playful, and energetic, while at home they are sedate and dignified. They are easygoing dogs who make excellent companions for city dwellers in small apartments who can provide the dogs with daily walks on lead. As a short-faced breed, the ETS is not tolerant of hot weather and should not be left outdoors on warm or humid days. [1]
Grooming
The English Toy Spaniel's long, wavy, silky, and profuse coat should be brushed at least twice a week with a pin brush or soft bristle brush. A long-toothed metal dog comb can also come in handy for gently working through areas where tangles may be beginning to form. Left unattended, tangles and mats are uncomfortable for your dog and can cause skin problems to develop. [1]
Health issues to budget for
English Toy Spaniels are generally healthy dogs, but there are several health and genetic screening considerations specific to the breed, including eye conditions, cardiac disease, and luxating patellas. Dedicated breeders test their breeding stock and communicate with each other regularly to work together for breed health and preservation of the breed's unique qualities. The English Toy Spaniel's ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste designed for dogs. Regular visits to the vet for checkups and parasite control help to ensure the dog a long, healthy life. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: 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 English Toy Spaniel in 1886. [1]
- It ranked No. 134 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 129 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “ETS, Charlie (U.K., King Charles Spaniel).” [1]
- The AKC lists England as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 2 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Cardiac Exam, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 5/5)
Common questions
How long do English Toy Spaniels live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 10-12 years.
How big does a English Toy Spaniel get?
AKC breed information lists height 9-10 inches and weight 8-14 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a English Toy Spaniel?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the English Toy 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.