English Toy Spaniel
The English Toy Spaniel, as it is known in North America, is known as the King Charles Spaniel in Europe. This toy breed was developed in England around the 1600's by selectively breeding the smallest dogs from Spaniel litters; it is also believed that the Japanese Chin is in the ancestry of these dogs as well, having contributed to the foreshortened square muzzle. It has a domed head and large, dark expressive eyes. The English Toy Spaniel was bred to be companion dog and it is much happier when it is close to its human friends.
Height: 10 - 11" (25.4 - 27.9cm)
Weight: 8 - 14 lbs (3.6 - 6.2 kg)
Coat Type: The coat is long and silky; it is usually straight but a slight wave is permissible. There is a fair amount of feathering on the legs and tail. It requires regular grooming. The accepted colors are black and tan, tri-color, and blenheim.
Temperament: The English Toy Spaniel expects to be a companion and is the epitome of the lap dog being very loving and gentle, and requiring little exercise. It is not an outgoing dog and must be allowed time to enjoy newcomers.
Health Problems: Patella Luxation is often found in this breed, and is considered to be an inherited problem.
Special Interest: The English Toy Spaniel was a favorite of King Charles II of Great Britain; he kept many of them and found great pleasure playing with them, rather than tending to royal affairs. It is from this association that the breed took its name. They were often included in paintings done by some of the great masters such as Rembrandt, Gainsborough, Rubens.
Classifications:
AKC: Group 5 - Toys
CKC: Group 5 - Toys
KC: Non-Sporting - Toys
FCI: Group 9
ANKC: Group 1 - Toy
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