Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, breed of toy dog descended from the King Charles spaniel popular in Great Britain under King Charles I and King Charles II in the early 17th century. Attempts in the 1940s to restore the old breed resulted in the development of this toy breed, named for knights of the Middle Ages. The Cavalier King Charles spaniel has a small, graceful body. The dog stands about 30 to 33 cm (about 12 to 13 in) high at the shoulders, and weighs about 6 to 8 kg (about 13 to 18 lb). The front legs are straight and the back legs are heavily muscled. The chest is moderately deep. Sloped shoulders support the long, slightly arched neck. The skull appears flat, but the dog's head actually has a gentle curve over the top. A full muzzle tapers slightly and is cone-shaped. The face fills out below large, round, dark-brown eyes, which are set wide apart. Long, high-set ears hang straight down, falling forward to frame the face when the dog is alert. The tail is carried level with the back and is usually in motion. The dog moves with a powerful, free-moving walk that adds to its regal appearance. The long, silky fur of the Cavalier King Charles spaniel is generally straight but may show a slight wave. Long feathery hair grows on the ears, chest, legs, and tail. The feathery fur on the feet distinguishes this breed. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes four color patterns: gold, ruby, black and tan, and tricolor. The Cavalier King Charles spaniel has a gentle disposition, and enjoys walking with its owner. It is comfortable in both the city and the country. The long coat requires regular combing. This breed enjoys great popularity in Britain. The Cavalier King Charles spaniel is less known in the United States, but the AKC recognized it in 1996 and its popularity is expected to increase. The national breed club is the American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club. Microsoft ® Encarta ® 2009. © 1993-2008 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.