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.
