Five Reasons Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Make Wonderful Companions

Introduction

The secret is finally out—people around the world have come to appreciate this delightful little spaniel, and there's no going back now. These dogs may well be the most loving and affectionate breed in existence today. Yes, I'm a devoted admirer, but there's solid reasoning behind that.

I've been lucky enough to share my everyday life with these remarkable dogs. I got my first Cavalier more than 16 years ago, back when most people had no idea what breed it was—except in England, where they're extremely popular. After all, King Charles II gave them his own royal name. In fact, during that era, doctors often recommended them as "lap warmers." Only aristocrats and royalty were permitted to keep them.

So, here are the top five reasons this breed is so exceptional.

Blenheim Cavalier Puppy

Countryside Cavaliers

5. Their Beauty

People often say beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Yet most would agree that Cavaliers are beautiful.

Their coats are soft and silky, almost like velvet. They have hair, but not so much that they require frequent trips to the groomer.
They're frequently called the wash 'n wear dogs—and rightly so. A decent-sized sink or bathtub is all you need to clean them.
What's more, their coats aren't oily, so most people with dog allergies won't have bad reactions to this breed. This also means they don't develop that unpleasant "dog smell" that many other breeds have a day or so after a bath. We call them clean dogs for a reason.
They're easy to maintain and aren't particularly fond of dirty things. Still, at the end of the day, they are dogs.

Black & Tan Cavalier pup

Countryside Cavaliers

4. Their Intelligence

Brains and beauty—Cavaliers have plenty of both.

They're incredibly attuned to their humans. As one of the smartest breeds around today, it's hard not to spoil them.
They're clever enough to use their looks to get what they want. One glance into those big brown soulful eyes and we melt. You'll catch yourself wondering what you can give them. A treat, perhaps? A belly rub? A nice walk? They've figured us out and can make us jump through hoops with just a slight head tilt and a blink.
I'm not claiming they're overachievers, because they aren't. That's one of their most charming traits. In fact, if you come home exhausted and worn out, they won't demand 50 rounds of fetch. They'll wag their tail nonstop and just want to cuddle if that's alright with you.

Ruby Cavalier puppy

Countryside Cavaliers

3. Their Temperament

When we consider the various aspects of personality, we arrive at what we call temperament. There are many facets to personality, but the Cavalier has an overwhelmingly positive set of attributes. I'll describe a few of the more common ones. Keep in mind that this isn't an exhaustive list and that each individual dog will also respond to its environment.

Sensitivity and understanding are highly developed traits in the Cavalier. If you're sick in bed, they'll be your constant companion. They also often serve as therapy dogs.
Compassion for other creatures. I've seen them walk right past chickens foraging around—I doubt they'd harm a flea. On rare occasions, I've found mice in their mouths, yet the mouse wasn't hurt. Of course, they weren't giving the mouse up easily either.
They adapt their play to whatever or whomever they're interacting with. They're equally content sitting with children while they play with toys or hiking a long winding trail in the mountains.
Their temperament truly allows them to be the perfect companion and lap warmer—which is what they do best.

Blenheim Cavalier puppy

Countryside Cavaliers

2. Their Attitude

Attitude can turn a bad situation good or vice-versa. With this breed, however, their attitude is easy-going and well-mannered. That's why so many people take them almost everywhere they go—they're so well behaved in public.

They don't bark at other dogs or show any signs of aggression. Aggression is actually foreign to them.
While sitting at a coffee shop one day, I was just observing my dog who was with me, and it dawned on me that she was waiting for the people at another table to come over and say hello to her. She sat there wagging her tail, looking directly at them, and yes, they did eventually come over and introduce themselves to us and to her. She was pleased with the outcome. Patience is a virtue, and that day, she showed just how much she has.
Cavaliers also live in the moment, which is a wonderfully refreshing reminder of what we need more of in our daily lives. They don't dwell in the past or hold grudges. Nor do they live in dreams of the future. They simply enjoy the moment as they are, in the present.

Blenheim Cavalier – Ellie Mae

Countryside Cavaliers

1. Love

Above and beyond all the qualities mentioned that make these such outstanding dogs, the number one quality is love. They love everyone and everything. They're love sponges. They have buckets of love. The sayings go on and on.

I've seen them turn dog haters into dog lovers. Really, I have.
They've put smiles on countless children's faces along with some complimentary licks.
Until one has experienced the pure love they so freely offer, it's hard to truly understand. The amazing part of it all is that their supply is endless. They have enough love for everyone who comes into their realm.

This one trait, above all the others, is what makes these spaniels so royal. It's as if they know they come from royalty and humbly embrace it. Once you've been owned by a Cavalier, there's never any turning back.