Cavalier Facts to Consider:
- Cavaliers are housedogs who want to be with their human family members more then anything else and will follow them from room to room.
- Cavaliers need training and socialization by their new owners to become well-adjusted, well-trained members of the family who can go anywhere they do.
- This breed loves children who are gentle and well behaved. Children who are loud, boisterous or rough will frighten a Cavalier. Often, it is the puppy of this breed that needs to be protected (given a safe place) rather then the child. Cavaliers are remarkably gentle with infants.
- Cavaliers are a longhaired breed and need regular brushing/combing to avoid a tangled or matted coat. You may bathe a Cavalier frequently, especially if they are sleeping in your bed.
- Cavaliers are not “street smart” because of this trait; when outdoors they should be either kept on leashes or monitored in fenced yards.
- I recommend a fenced in yard or a breeder-approved containment system for a Cavalier. The fence and gate must be secure enough at the bottom so the dog cannot slip or dig out from under, as well as tall enough (at least 5’).
- Primary Health Concern: Mitral Valve Disease; Breeding Cavaliers must be screened annually, preferably by a board certified cardiologist.
- The breed has the highest percent increase over the past decade in terms of popularity — having moved up the AKC’s list from 75th in 1996 to 27th in 2006 – a 511% increase. Therefore, you must be extra-diligent in locating a reputable breeder as unscrupulous breeders and importers abound. Because of their value and popularity, Cavaliers who have been bred simply for the puppy revenue (at puppy mills or commercial sites) are becoming increasingly prevalent.