Frequently Asked Questions
- Are they good with kids?
The Cavalier is excellent with children. Their tendency to interact
with their owners makes them an especially close friend and
confidant for a child. They enjoy playtime and activity. Children, of
course, need supervision to be certain that the child does not hurt
the dog.
- Are they good with seniors?
Retirees, or "empty nesters," find the companionship,
temperament, small size and easy maintenance ideal. More than
one woman has mentioned that a Cavalier resting on her lap or in
her arms is almost as peaceful as holding a human baby sleeping.
They bring great peace to all. Cavaliers are happy to just be with
their owners no matter what age, they are willing to go for long
walks or lay by you while watching tv. Cavaliers can make great
therapy dogs too.
- Are they good guard dogs?
No. While the Cavalier will alert his owner to an arrival of someone
new, they seem to regard all strangers as friends they haven't met
yet. Although the noise of him barking may be enough to ward off
a prowler, it would be difficult picturing anyone being scared off by
a Cavalier.
- Do they travel well?
People who travel often find it easy and pleasant to take their
Cavalier along. The Cavaliers strong desire to be with their owners
makes them great travelers. Their size and personality contribute to
their welcome at "dogs allowed" hotels, marinas & campgrounds.
- Are they an AKC breed?
As of January 1996, the Cavaliers have full recognition by the AKC.
This has resulted in two national breed clubs, the original CKCSC-
USA and the AKC-recognized ACKCSC.
- What medical problems do Cavaliers have?
For the most part Cavaliers are quite healthy dogs. There are a few
problems which are known to appear in the breed: Mitral Valve
Disease: (MVD) A developmental defect in the heart's mitral valve that
can lead to congestive heart failure. cataracts, and subluxating
Patellas. There are getting to be more and more Cavalier breeders
every day so "please" make sure that you buy from a responsible
breeder, someone that has health their first priority, you know the
saying" you get what you pay for"
- What kind of grooming is necessary for Cavaliers?
The Cavalier does require regular grooming. A great deal of time and
effort is not necessary if the dog is brushed and combed at least once
a week. Cavaliers do shed, particularly in spring and fall, but a little all
the time. Nails should be clipped and the hair between the pads may
be trimmed if desired. No other trimming is necessary (or allowed) in
the show ring. The ideal brushes to use are the softer slicker brushes
or a pin brush (not nylon or plastic) a metal comb and I've found that
the furminator works great on the cavaliers coat. Knots and tangles
should be watched for behind ears. Brush out all knots and tangles
before bathing. Do not use human shampoo for it was not meant for
dogs and can cause their skin to dryout.
Cavaliers are naturally clean dogs. Too much bathing dries out the
skin and haircoat so certainly do not bathe more than once a week.
Rinse thoroughly. A human blow dryer (not on hot) and brushing at
the same time works well for drying.
