The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are the quintessential lap dogs. Serving royal figures such as Charles I, Charles II, Queen Victoria and even Princess Margaret, these dogs love to cosy up to their owners. They crave companionship and enjoy to be in the company of humans. Indeed, these little dogs will follow their owners around the house wherever they go. Expect a permanent shadow! They are affectionate and love to plant a sloppy kiss on your face. It’s no surprise these dogs are such a hit on Instagram with their fluffy ears, big brown eyes and lush coats.
Zoey the Cav (@zoeymycav) (pictured above) said in her interview:
Zoey is as independent as she is attached. She is never not cute. She is always happy. Watching her sleep, or prance, play, train, pose for our shoots, always brings me joy and happiness in my heart.
Dobrý bytový psi
Some dogs aren’t suited for apartments but the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a good fit. They’re a relatively low maintenance dog – at least in terms of exercise and space. They are one of the larger sized toy breeds but these regal dogs don’t take up a lot of space. Indeed, they’re very portable and you can easily accommodate them in a specially designed travel bag for dogs so you’ll have company on your daily errands.
Snadné trénování
Louie the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (Photo: heylittlelouie / Instagram)
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a companion dog and as a result, they love nothing more than to please their dog owners. So it isn’t really a surprise that they make quick learners. This is from their drive to keep their humans happy. As a result, they can learn basic obedience and more advanced commands from a young age. While they may not be as bright as the Border Collie, Poodle or German Shepherd, this breed still rank 44th out of 137 when it comes to the world’s most intelligent dogs.
Louie (@heylittlelouie – pictured above) found that consistency is the key.
Consistency has been key with Louie, but overall he is not a difficult to dog to train. And, as long as there are treats around, Louie is a star little poser!
Moderate amount of exercise
Herky and Milton the Cavalier (Photo: @herkythecavalier / Instagram)
These dogs make idea companions for those who don’t have the ability or opportunity to do a lot of exercise. Elderly people who are unable to walk long distances are a good fit for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Single dog owners could also be a good fit provided they can meet the dog’s companionship needs. The breed require a moderate amount of exercise, which equates to an hour of exercise a day to keep these dogs happy and stimulated. While they may be great lap dogs, they still some short walks.
Herky and Milton’s mum (@herkythecavalier – pictured above) offered some advice where Cavalier exercise is concerned.
A good rule is about one hour walk per day. They are highly adaptable so if you want to exercise more, they will follow you no problem. They also have no issue being couch potatoes on rainy days.
Dobré s dětmi
If you’re looking for a dog that will make a good family pet, you’d be forgiven for thinking of a Golden Retriever or Labrador. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a great option for young families looking for a dog. They are docile animals with an affectionate temperament. However, young children will need to be educated about how to handle this fragile toy breed. It is never advisable to leave a dog alone with a child, even if they are perceived to be family friendly.
Don’t bark a lot
Milton the Cavalier (Photo: @herkythecavalier / Instagram)
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel doesn’t make a lot of noise. They rarely bark. While this is a good thing for those who live in an apartment complex or with neighbours effectively living on top of them, they’re not suited as guard dogs or watch dogs. Furthermore, their amiable nature means they’re more likely to be friendly to strangers rather than scare off unwanted visitors.
Herky and Milton (pictured above) are examples of Cavaliers who don’t bark much at all.
Generally, no they do not bark a lot. When strangers walk in, they are welcomed with tail wags and licks. There are the rare occasions where they will bark. It will usually be when they are startled or afraid of something. But in general, Cavaliers do not bark much.
Nevýhody
Herky and Milton the Cavalier (Photo: @herkythecavalier / Instagram)
Zdravotní problémy
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel does suffer from a number of health problems that tend to affect a large portion of the breed. Most notable is heart disease. The condition is called Mitral valve heart disease and it’s the deterioration of one of the heart’s valves that can eventually lead to heart failure. Syringomyelia is another health problem that can affect the brain and spine of Cavaliers. Other issues include hip dysplasia, luxating patella, gum disease and slipped discs.
Herky and Milton’s mom (pictured above) raised some health conditions that prospective owners should be aware of.
Cavaliers unfortunately are prone to a lot of genetically inherited diseases that are often fatal. To lower the chances of getting a cavalier with these diseases, make sure you research reputable breeders and ask for health certificates and clearances from specialists.
Pravidelná péče
Zoey the Cavalier (Photo: @zoeymycav / Instagram)
While these dogs are low maintenance when it comes to exercise, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels do require regular grooming to maintain their coat’s beautiful appearance. If you want to prevent their fur from becoming matted, it is a good to give them a regular brush daily (or at the very least weekly). Not only that, but Cavalier owners are advised to give their elegant ears regular cleaning to prevent the build up of bacteria and infections.
While Cavaliers require some maintenance, you can do a lot of their grooming routine at home. Here’s Zoey (pictured above) to explain more.
The most common question is: “Does she shed?” Yes, she does. That is the ONLY box she doesn’t check. She is not high maintenance as far as grooming, she’s never been to a groomer, I bathe and brush her myself at home. But she does she a lot. There will be dog fur on your clothes, blankets and car seat. And it’s all worth it. Get a robot vacuum and call it a day.
Don’t like to be left alone
This toy breed love human company, which is a big positive. However, the downside is Cavalier King Charles Spaniels don’t like to be left alone for long periods. If you’re in a position where you can’t avoid leaving your dog alone for more than four hours a day, then this probably isn’t the right dog for you. You could always hire the services of a dog sitter or a dog walker if you’ve got your heart set on a CKCS. They’re known to suffer from separation anxiety, too. A dog camera could potentially help to provide a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with some comfort if they’re home alone.
Drahý
These adorable, fluffy-eared dogs don’t come cheap. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club of USA advises that a puppy could cost between $1800 and $3600 depending on a number of different factors. These include the prices of different breeders, the pup’s bloodline, any health issues it may have and whether it conforms to the breed’s standard (under AKC rules). There are number of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel rescues in both the United States and the United Kingdom.
Není hypoalergenní
Herky and Milton the Cavalier (Photo: @herkythecavalier / Instagram)
When you search Cavalier King Charles Spaniels on Google, one term that is searched a lot is whether these dogs are hypoallergenic. However, these gorgeous spaniels aren’t a good fit for those who are allergic to dogs. While the AKC state on their website that no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, they list 19 types of dog that are better than others for allergy sufferers. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniels aren’t on their list.
Herky and Milton’s mum (pictured above) admitted that Cavalier’s shedding is one of their worst traits.
I would say this is the “worst trait” of Cavaliers. They shed so much that regular (daily) vacuuming and brushing is absolutely needed. I would not recommend this breed for people with allergies!
Can’t let off the leash
While the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are companion dogs, they were also bred to scare birds during hunting seasons. Given they have a potential prey drive for small animals, it is not a good idea to walk a Cavalier off the leash. While some dog owners may feel comfortable doing so, it takes just one time for disaster to strike. Garden and yards should be well fenced to ensure these dogs don’t wander off in pursuit of a small bird or animal.
Low-maintenance dogs require occasional bathing and brushing.
I get it; you’re craving some companionship but don’t have time to brush, bathe, or visit the groomer every week. Or even worse, cleaning up the house after a shedding dog has been let loose. That’s why you want to consider low-maintenance dogs.
You want the best of both worlds — a dog that’s generally easy to care for and has little need for constant grooming. Thankfully, there are a few dog breeds that fit the bill.
Další věci, které je třeba zvážit
Grooming is one responsibility of dog ownership, but you also need to consider training, exercise, health, and general costs. It all adds to the time and effort spent keeping your dog happy and healthy.
Consider dogs that are easy to train, require daily walks, and have moderate energy levels.
From my experience as a professional groomer, I have seen which low-maintenance dogs are easy to groom.
I’ve selected eight breeds that meet that criterion while highlighting some challenges you may face.
1. Bostonský teriér
The Boston Terrier is known for its “tuxedo” coat and likes to show off its sleek black and white masking and chest.
Boston Terriers are little hyperactive comedians. They’re joyful, intelligent, and sometimes mischievous. But their main goal in life is to make you laugh. They tend to be stubborn about training and will test your persistence.
The breed is known for its “tuxedo” coat and likes to show off its sleek black and white masking and chest. They shed, but it’s minimal due to their short hair (compared to most shedding breeds).
You may notice a few odd hairs left on the couch or rug, but it’s barely noticeable. Overall, this makes their coat very easy to care for, and the occasional bath is all they require.
2. Kavalír King Charles španěl
Cavaliers are sweet and gentle dogs who love being the center of attention. They spend their days just trying to make you smile.
However, they get so attached to their owners that they sometimes experience separation anxiety when they leave.
And with their gentle demeanors, the dogs don’t respond well to negative training or scolding.
Cavaliers are nonshedding, hypoallergenic, and only require a bath and trim a few times yearly. That makes them about as low maintenance as it gets for grooming a longer-haired breed.
To prevent painful mats and tangles, brush their coats out at least once weekly.
Another option to reduce your grooming requirements is to consider getting a Cavapoo — a Cavalier and poodle mix.
3. Čivava
Chihuahuas sometimes get a bad reputation, but they’re sweet and affectionate. Be warned; they tend to be noisy and bark at everything. And they are perhaps a little possessive with their owners.
Like other breeds, these dogs don’t like being left alone and are content to follow you all day.
Chihuahuas come in short and long coat types. Both hair types shed a moderate amount, but you’ll notice it much more with dogs with longer hair.
Brushing a few times a week will keep excessive shedding to a minimum. And thankfully, due to their small size, it’s easy to control their shedding coat.
4. Italský chrt
The Italian Greyhound is quiet, compassionate, and a little bit shy. While their bodies were designed for running, they preferred to cuddle up in a blanket and nap.
Socialization and training can be frustrating, as they tend to be stubborn. But these dogs are susceptible, so scolding or negative training will only cause them to run and hide.
Perhaps the best kind of dog is one you don’t have to brush. Italian Greyhounds have thin coats that rarely require cleaning. They don’t produce a “doggie odor” either, so even bathing is rare.
They shed, but their hair is so short you’ll barely notice. As far as coats go, this is the easiest one to maintain. Their grooming needs are far more apparent with their teeth and nails, which need regular maintenance.
5. Miniaturní pinč
Min Pins have a short, sleek coat that requires minimal grooming. They shed, but a quick brush frees up loose hair and minimizes shedding every few days.
Acting as a true Mini-Doberman, the Min Pin is a proud, bold little dog. They love to show off and be the center of attention. That also means they like taking charge, so you’ll need to be a patient yet assertive leader in your home.
Min Pins have a short, sleek coat that requires minimal grooming. They shed, but a quick brush frees up loose hair and minimizes shedding every few days. Bathing is only required once every few months or when they begin to get stinky.
There is a variety of coat densities with Min Pins. Sometimes, these dogs can have dense fur around their neck, which leads to a decent amount of shedding. Meanwhile, other Min Pins may have incredibly short and sleek coats.
6. Motýl
Papillons are an outgoing and loving breed and are always looking for their next adventure.
They’re incredibly energetic, playful, and eager to learn. That makes training the Papillon an absolute joy. It’s no wonder they excel in training and agility courses.
Despite some rumors, the Papillon is not hypoallergenic. They do shed, but not excessively. Thankfully, it’s easy to maintain their coat with regular brushing.
Like the Cavalier, these dogs can get away with only having a few grooms per year. Their long hair is prone to matting, so it’s essential to keep a weekly brushing schedule to avoid painful tangles.
7. Ohař
The Whippet resembles a small greyhound. The Whippet is affectionate, intelligent, sweet-natured, and loyal.
You may have difficulty telling a Whippet apart from an Italian Greyhound. They’re both mild-mannered and love to lounge all day. Whippets tend to be slightly more confident and affectionate, making them fantastic family companions.
Regarding grooming – it’s also quite similar to the Italian Greyhound. They have very thin coats and short hair, so shedding is barely noticeable.
They need the occasional bath, but since they don’t produce a typical “doggie odor,” that only needs to happen a few times yearly.
8. Chrt
Similar to the Whippet, these dogs were designed for racing. BuWhippette being incredibly athletic, they are absolute couch potatoes. Greyhounds would much rather spend their day lounging in the sun. They can be timid and take time to improve their confidence.
This is as easy as coat care gets. While they do technically shed, it’s minimal and barely noticeable.
They don’t produce the odor that most dogs do, so bathing only needs to happen a few times yearly. The full extent of Greyhound grooming is usually caring for their nails, teeth, and ears.
Choosing low-maintenance dogs
Although grooming requirements may not top the list when considering what kind of dog to adopt, low-maintenance dogs will make your life easier.
If you’re worried about dog hair, avoid selecting a breed with a double coat that sheds seasonally. Instead, opt for a dog with short hair that sheds occasionally or rarely.
After all, you can play with your dog instead of grooming. As for the money, you won’t pay; instead, you can buy more toys and treats.
Just know that all dogs shed; some lose more hair than others. The low-maintenance dogs on this list can appeal more to people with allergies or anyone who hates cleaning up dog hair.
Shayla McConnell has been working closely with animals for more than 10 years. Initially trained as a vet tech assistant at a local emergency clinic, she later changed career paths, became a professional dog groomer, and now runs a successful grooming business.
